New Director of Research for Church Army

This follows the announcement that George Lings, who has led Church Army's Research Unit for 20 years, will be retiring in September.

Tim said: "I'm very much looking forward to working with the Church Army team, and thinking about how we may build on George's compelling legacy. We cannot pause in our paying attention to how God is active in mission, particularly through the voices from 'the edge', which is one of the gifts that the Church Army brings to the wider Church."

In his current role, Tim oversees research work and has been responsible for the development, implementation and review of national policy relating to continuing ministerial development. Tim will be commencing his new role for Church Army in October.

The Church of England's Director of Ministry, Julian Hubbard, said: "Tim has made a major contribution to the work of ministry development. My colleagues and I look forward to continuing to work together with him on the many areas of common interest and purpose which we share with Church Army."

Church Army Chief Executive, Mark Russell, said: "We are thrilled that Tim is joining our team. For 20 years, our Research Unit has been at the cutting edge of pioneering and evangelism, inspiring others to help the church be more creative in mission. Tim will bring his considerable gifts and skills to this crucial role."

Tim is an Honorary Research Associate at University College London's Institute of Education and his previous experience includes work as a police officer, company director, university lecturer and as a diocesan ministry development officer. He lives in Canterbury with his wife and two children.