Steve has been Moderator of the West Midlands Synod since September 2015, having previously served in local churches in Lincolnshire and Enfield.  His training for ministry was at Westminster College, Cambridge, and he was ordained in 1998.  He has professional interests in church leadership and seeing churches grow – numerically and in their relationship with Jesus.

The Synod Clerk provides oversight of the operation of Synod and its Committees. She supports the Moderator including deputising when required and represents Synod nationally and locally. She also provides guidance on governance and procedures.

The role focuses on supporting pastorates, churches, ministers, elders, and others in the care and development of churches and manses. This includes identifying necessary repairs from inspection reports, recommending suitable systems, and attending meetings to discuss property matters. Additionally, the role involves visiting properties and collaborating with the Eco Grant Group on maintenance and repair issues.

The Finance Officer plays a crucial role in managing the financial affairs of the West Midlands Synod of the United Reformed Church. She works with the Honorary Treasurer to oversee accounting, financial management, and provides guidance to local churches on financial matters. Additionally, she supports key committees, including the Synod Resources & Compliance Committee and the Trust Company Board.

Melanie Smith is the Training and Development Officer and Pastoral Consultant, bringing experience as a URC minister since 2012, having served in the UK and Fiji. Before ministry, she worked as a Chartered Accountant and held roles in Christian Aid and the Community for Reconciliation. She is eager to connect, offer training, and support churches with funding and grants.

Helen Laird is the Children and Youth Development Officer, supporting and equipping others in their ministry. She has trained teams for Open the Book and provides Messy Church and Roots resources for all ages. She is available to assist with new projects, recruitment, and to support you to grow in numbers or deepening faith.

Sally and Andrew Willett, a married couple, job share the role of Mission Development Officers.  Their desire is to help, equip, enthuse and enable mission. The Synod is keen to promote continuing church growth; please contact them to discuss any aspect of mission and if you have any questions about LYCiG resources.

Anji leads a pioneer ministry movement within the West Midlands URC, helping local churches engage their communities in innovative ways. Through the Seedbeds Pioneer Hub, trained pioneers are now working across four communities, with Anji providing support and resources. She is available to meet with churches and individuals interested in exploring pioneering opportunities in the region.

Lindsay is responsible for managing the Synod Office and acts as Secretary to various committees. She keeps oversight of Annual Returns, the Synod database, GDPR, Synod Recruitment and IT support for the Synod Team. She manages the Moderator’s diary including preaching engagements.

Emma’s role as Administrative Assistant is to provide general office support and administrative support to the Synod Safeguarding Officer, Property Officer and Training and Development Officer. She deals with bookings for training and the Ministers’ Summer School. Emma is likely to be the first person you hear when you call the Synod Office.