Director of Mission and Strategy appointed
Dr Grahame Davies has been appointed as the Church in Wales’ first Director of Mission and Strategy.
Dr Davies, 59, originally from Coedpoeth near Wrexham, is a former journalist, who began his career in newspapers in South Wales and later became Newsgathering Editor for BBC Wales.
He spent 12 years in the Royal Household and most recently, as Deputy Private Secretary, he oversaw the music for the Coronation of King Charles III, and the Honours of Scotland ceremony, as well as leading the project to create the Cross of Wales, which led the Coronation procession.
He is the author of 18 books in Welsh and English and a winner of the Wales Book of the Year Award. He has a degree in English from Anglia Ruskin University, a doctorate from Cardiff University, honorary doctorates from Anglia Ruskin and Aberdeen Universities and is an honorary Professor of Practice of the University of Wales.
In his new role, Dr Davies will lead the team of specialist staff who advise the bishops of the Church in Wales and will also be responsible for the supporting the Church’s engagement with institutions and organisations in Wales and beyond.
The Archbishop of Wales Andrew John said, “I am delighted to welcome Dr Davies to the Church in Wales as a member of staff. The experience he brings to us will be crucial in ensuring that we can focus our energies on a clear plan to serve all the people of Wales.”
The Chief Executive of the Representative Body, Simon Lloyd said, “The Representative Body exists to resource and equip the bishops, clergy and people of the Church in Wales as they seek to be a vibrant, engaged and welcoming church for everyone. Grahame’s role will be crucial in ensuring this aim is met.”
Commenting on his appointment, Dr Davies said, “As a lifelong member of the Church in Wales, I count it an enormous privilege to be able to contribute to the Church’s vital work to help all sections of Welsh society.”
Dr Davies will take up his role on 1 November and will be based at the National Office in Cardiff.
Thanks to John Briggs for the photograph above