Giving Management Gifts to God

“When one is ordained, one gives all one’s gifts to God.”

The Revd Caroline Titley has just been appointed a Trustee of the Church of England Pensions Board. This is a voluntary post, but the appointment followed an open, competitive recruitment process.

The Pensions Board provides retirement housing and pensions set by the Church of England for those who have served or work for the Church. It assists over 38,000 people across more than 450 Church employers and manages funds in excess of £2.3 billion.

Caroline was made a deacon last June and is Assistant Curate in the Parish of Wilton with Netherhampton and Fugglestone, following a career in the housing and community sectors.

“My responsibilities cover both pensions and housing, and I have been brought in because of my housing expertise”, says Caroline who was Chief Executive of Bracknell Forest Homes for nine years until ordination. This housing association looks after more than 7,000 properties and 250 staff.

“As well as housing expertise”, continues Caroline, “I also bring my experience of governance, vision, and strategy.

“Both while at Bracknell Forest Homes and at my previous employer, I had significant experience of dealing with financial issues, including pensions.

“I’m looking forward to the role and contributing my skills, and am looking forward to being involved with discussions about the retirement services that will be needed in the future for clergy and church workers.

“I also hope to contribute to thinking about how funds should best be invested. I am pleased that the Pensions Board receives advice and support from the Church’s Investment Advisory Group, and takes an active stance on ethical investment.

“There are around 2,000 retired clergy now housed in rented and shared ownership properties provided by the Pensions Board.

“I see this as part of my wider contribution to the Church, using valuable skills that I’ve gained in my secular career.”