Local Formation Lead

South Eastern Baptist Association (SEBA) is seeking a gifted and collaborative Local Formation Lead to help develop a culture of local leadership training, formation and ministry development across Kent, Surrey, East Sussex, West Sussex and Northeast Hampshire. 

This is an exciting opportunity for someone with a heart for equipping local leaders - encouraging theological reflection, and supporting people as they grow in leadership, ministry and mission within their local Baptist context. 

About the role 

Working alongside SEBA’s Regional Ministry Team, the Local Formation Lead will oversee and develop pathways for local leader training, including training that can support participants towards Recognised Local Minister status. The role will involve building partnerships, facilitating learning and formation, encouraging prospective students, and helping to create accessible opportunities for people from a wide range of church and ministry contexts. 

Key responsibilities 

• Develop and promote accessible local leader training across the South Eastern region. 
• Support pathways for those seeking Recognised Local Minister status, including spiritual formation groups, mentoring arrangements, retreats and formation days. 
• Work with Baptist Colleges, Regional Ministers and local partners to shape and deliver learning opportunities. 
• Encourage and support prospective learners, particularly those from under-represented groups. 
• Develop further learning communities, events and programmes that strengthen ministry skills and ongoing formation. 
• Help signpost individuals who may be exploring a call to accredited Baptist ministry. 
• Contribute to the wider work, discernment and strategic priorities of SEBA. 

About you 

We are looking for someone who can build warm, collaborative relationships and who brings experience in the formation and development of leaders and/or ministers. You may be a Baptist minister, or someone with significant relevant experience in theological education, leadership development or ministry formation. 
The successful candidate will have a good understanding of Baptist life and structures, a commitment to Baptist principles, strong organisational skills, and the ability to initiate and sustain new programmes in partnership with others. A degree in theology, or equivalent experience and learning, is expected. 

*please note that this position has been assessed under our Equal Opportunities policy and it has been deemed that it is an occupational requirement for the post to be filled by a practicing Christian that abides by the Baptist Union Declaration of Principle.

Terms 

Role: Local Formation Lead 
Location: South East of England – Kent, Surrey, East Sussex and West Sussex 
Hours: 16 hours per week 
Salary: £35,000 full-time equivalent, pro-rated 
Reports to: Regional Minister Team Leader  

How to apply 

For an informal conversation about the role please contact Joth Hunt, RMTL.

Closing date: 28 July 2026    Interview date: w/c 10 August 2026

To request an application pack please complete the form below (the areas marked with an asterisk are mandatory).