The new Archdeacon of Bradford has been announced as the Revd Canon Dr Andy Jolley, Vicar of Aston and Nechells in the Diocese of Birmingham. He succeeds the Ven. Dr David Lee and will have a wide range of responsibilities overseeing and supporting the churches of the Bradford Episcopal Area and working with the Area Bishop of Bradford, the Rt. Revd Toby Howarth.
Announcing the appointment, the Bishop of Leeds, the Rt. Revd Nick Baines said, “Following interview by a panel drawn from across the diocese, I am delighted that Andy Jolley has agreed to serve in this diocese as the new Archdeacon of Bradford.
“Andy brings experience as an engineer and management consultant – skills he has used to great effect in the church in Birmingham. He will bring new perspectives to our work as we seek to build this new diocese and shape the Bradford Episcopal Area for the future. Andy will bring exceptional gifts at both area and diocesan level, offering the parishes and people support, encouragement and challenge."
Before ordination, Andy (54), qualified as a Chartered Mechanical Engineer, working in the motor industry for Ford and then as a management consultant for Coopers & Lybrand. He trained for ordination at St John’s Nottingham and served a curacy in Sparkhill, Birmingham before becoming vicar of Aston Parish Church in September 2002. In 2005 he was also given responsibility for St James’ and St Matthew’s Churches in what is now the Parish of Aston and Nechells. He also served as Area Dean of the Aston Deanery for 7 years.
Andy, whose doctoral research focused on relating faith to work has been applying his findings to developing the Church of England Birmingham’s Mission Apprentice Scheme and New Wine’s Urban network. He said, “I am humbled and excited to be invited to join the leadership team of the Diocese, particularly at this early stage of its life, and to make a contribution to Bishop Nick's shared vision of enabling Christians to live and tell the good news of Jesus with confidence.
“I am looking forward to moving to Yorkshire and working alongside Bishop Toby and the clergy and lay leaders of the Bradford Episcopal Area, getting to know the people and the area and helping the churches to make a real difference in their communities."
The Bishop of Birmingham, the Rt. Revd David Urquhart, said, “I am delighted at the news of Andy’s appointment. West Yorkshire and the Dales is very fortunate to be getting a priest of such calibre and depth to serve on their senior team. Andy’s heart for mission, strategic thinking and spirit-filled energy will be much missed here in Birmingham. We send Andy and his family our best wishes and prayers as he prepares for this exciting move.”
Andy is married to Ricky, who is a GP. They have two children: Beth, who is in her final year at university, and Matt, who has just left school. Andy enjoys getting fresh air - especially by cycling, walking or skiing - watching films and sports, and relaxed meals with friends.