Benedict Harding
Warwick,Warwickshire
Summary
Accomplished professional with extensive expertise in programme oversight, leadership excellence, and decision-making competency. Demonstrated proficiency in crisis management and change leadership, ensuring seamless operations management. Adept at effective communication, driving organisational success through strategic initiatives and innovative solutions. Committed to fostering a collaborative environment that promotes growth and efficiency.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
3
3
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Director of Ministry Operations
UCCF
Oxford, Oxfordshire
01.2024 - Current
- Developed and implemented operational strategies aligning with UCCF’s mission and vision
- Streamlined processes to enhance organisational effectiveness
- Supported staff development through training, mentoring, and performance management
- Directed operational budgets for financial sustainability and stewardship
- Enhanced organisational systems and tools to support ministry work
- Identify and mitigate operational risks across organisation
- Provide high-quality support for Christian Union activities and national initiatives
- Collaborated with teams and partners to enhance ministry operations
- Evaluated operational performance and implemented improvements
- Committed to continuous personal and professional development for effective leadership
Interim Deputy Executive Director
UCCF
Oxford, Oxfordshire
01.2022 - 01.2024
- Led interim efforts ensuring decision-making continuity
- Supervised daily operations to enhance organisational effectiveness and efficiency
- Led and supported senior managers and staff teams
- Monitored budgets, financial planning, and resource allocation
- Articulated UCCF’s vision and strategy to staff, partners, and supporters
- Oversaw core ministry programmes, including student mission initiatives and leadership development
- Mitigated risks impacting UCCF’s operations and reputation
- Maintained momentum in key projects during interim periods
- Supported Executive Director in Board of Trustees engagements
- Pursued continuous personal and professional growth to excel in interim leadership role
Head of Relay and Leadership Network
UCCF
Oxford, Oxfordshire
08.2020 - 01.2022
- Developed vision for Leadership Network aligned with UCCF’s mission
- Designed and led leadership development programmes
- Led and facilitated training events, conferences, and workshops for CU leaders
- Developed high-quality leadership resources, including guides, videos, and digital materials
- Built partnerships with churches, ministries, and organisations to enrich the Leadership Network
- Led planning and delivery of leadership conferences and training events
- Evaluated leadership initiatives using feedback and measurable outcomes
- Utilised various communication channels to engage and inspire student leaders
- Led and supported staff and volunteers in delivering Leadership Network
- Committed to continuous theological education and leadership development
Head of Relay
UCCF
Oxford, Oxfordshire
01.2017 - 08.2020
- Led strategic direction and vision for Relay Programme
- Designed and oversaw Relay Programme structure and content
- Oversaw application and selection process
- Planned and delivered training conferences for Relay Workers
- Developed pastoral care frameworks for Relay Workers
- Managed Relay Programme budget and fundraising targets
- Collaborated with regional teams and UCCF departments
- Implemented feedback to enhance future programme delivery
- Engaged in theological study and leadership development
Staff Worker
UCCF
Warwick, Warwickshire
08.2014 - 01.2017
- Mentored and provided pastoral care to CU leaders
- Modelled and promoted personal evangelism among students
- Developed and delivered training for CU leaders on leadership, mission, and theology
- Assisted in designing effective mission strategies
- Fostered partnerships with local churches to enhance student ministry
- Contributed to national UCCF events such as Forum and regional conferences
- Provided regular prayer support for students and university outreach
- Maintained communication with UCCF regional and national teams
- Undertook theological study and ongoing ministry training
Minister for 18-30s
Arbury Road Baptist Church
Cambridge, Cambridgeshire
08.2013 - 08.2014
- Led and developed discipleship groups and one-to-one mentoring
- Facilitated connections between newcomers and wider church family
- Planned and led outreach events targeting non-Christians aged 18–30
- Develop and deliver culturally relevant Bible studies for young adults
- Facilitated involvement in church-wide ministries and missions
- Planned and organised events, retreats, and conferences for 18–30s group
- Facilitated young adults' integration into broader church community
- Cultivated relationships with local churches and Christian organisations in Cambridge
- Maintained clear and engaging communication via social media, emails, and church announcements
- Led prayer meetings for young adults and church mission
- Undertake continuous theological education and ministry training
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Theology
King's College London
London 09.2010 - 08.2013
Skills
- Programme oversight
- Leadership excellence
- Decision-Making competency
- Crisis management expertise
- Change leadership
- Effective communication
- Operations management
Affiliations
- Running
- DIY
Languages
German
Fluent
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Director of Ministry Operations
UCCF
01.2024 - Current
Interim Deputy Executive Director
UCCF
01.2022 - 01.2024
Head of Relay and Leadership Network
UCCF
08.2020 - 01.2022
Head of Relay
UCCF
01.2017 - 08.2020
Staff Worker
UCCF
08.2014 - 01.2017
Minister for 18-30s
Arbury Road Baptist Church
08.2013 - 08.2014
Bachelor of Arts - Theology
King's College London
09.2010 - 08.2013
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