New Diocesan Secretary appointed for the Diocese of Bangor

The Diocese of Bangor has announced that Joanna Thomas is to be its next Diocesan Secretary.

Joanna joined the diocese in April 2025 as Diocesan Director of Education and became interim Diocesan Secretary in October 2025. She has played a key role in leading the diocese through a period of change and will continue in both roles until a new Director of Education is appointed.

A fluent Welsh speaker, Joanna was previously ahead teacher for eight years at a Church in Wales school in the Diocese of Bangor.

As Diocesan Secretary, she will lead the diocesan staff team, supporting the development and delivery of diocesan strategy and policy to enable mission and ministry across the Diocese of Bangor.

Archbishop of Wales Cherry Vann says, “I am delighted to welcome Joanna to this role and give thanks for the leadership she has already offered. This is a significant appointment for the Diocese and I look forward to working with her and the rest of the diocesan team as we continue to strengthen our Christian witness in the communities we serve.”

Hywel Parry-Smith, Chair of Trustees says “The Trustees warmly welcome Joanna’s appointment and look forward to working closely with her in the months ahead. Together, we will continue the work already begun to strengthen thestructures and leadership of our diocese.With clear direction and a shared sense of purpose, we can move forward with optimism and a renewed energy.”

The Diocese of Bangor is one of the six dioceses of the Church in Wales, serving communities across north-west Wales and part of Powys.