New Chair for CoE Archbishops’ Council Finance Committee

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The Archbishops of Canterbury and York are to nominate Carl Hughes as the next Chair of the Archbishops’ Council Finance Committee, as the Council oversees £1.2 billion investment to spread the gospel and strengthen parish ministry across England.

A former Vice Chairman of Deloitte UK, with 35 years’ experience in a range of senior City roles, Mr Hughes is due to succeed Canon Dr John Spence when he steps down in September after 10 years in the post.

The nomination, which is supported by the Archbishops’ Council, will be put to the General Synod for approval at its next meeting in July.

He said: “Having worked alongside Canon Dr John Spence for a number of years, it is a singular honour to have been selected as his successor. 

“In a post-Covid world where church attendance and cost-of-living issues are having a significant impact on many parishes and dioceses, I appreciate that I will be assuming this role at a challenging time for the economy of the Church. 

“However, I am committed to continuing to work towards greater simplification and cost-effectiveness within Church structures, whilst championing the need for growth in our worshipping communities through grassroots Gospel witness and evangelism to see more and more of our friends and neighbours coming to faith in our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.”

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, said: “Archbishop Stephen and I are pleased to nominate Carl to this role which is central to making a reality of our shared vision for the Church of England – to be a church which is reaching out and serving the whole nation.

“Carl brings many years of experience at the highest level in business and finance combined with a passion to spread the good news of Jesus Christ.”

A chartered accountant by background, Mr Hughes brings decades of experience at a senior level in the energy and resources sectors in the UK and internationally.

Since retiring from full-time roles, he has continued to serve as a non-executive director in a number of corporate, charitable and church organisations.

As a member of General Synod for the Diocese of Southwark, he steered the landmark Cathedrals Measure, which strengthened the governance and operation of England’s cathedrals through its legislative stages.

He is currently the Deputy Chair of the Archbishops’ Council Finance Committee and a director on the Lambeth Conference Company.

He is also a trustee of Premier Christian Media and a churchwarden at his local parish, All Saints with Holy Trinity in Wandsworth, South London, among other commitments.