Helen Platts to Retire

Next week, Helen Platts, will retire from her role as Chief Operating Officer and Diocesan Secretary. As Helen prepares to leave us on Tuesday, we wish to offer our thanks for her unfailing dedication that has achieved so much and strengthened the life and vision of our diocese.

Over the last seven years, Helen’s leadership has been instrumental during a period of significant change and challenge. She guided the organisation through the pandemic, secured substantial funding for new resource churches and our racial justice programme, and introduced a wide range of initiatives to support parishes – including church revitalisation and building grants, contactless giving devices, and financial support tools.

Alongside her commitment to nurturing parish life, Helen has worked tirelessly to ensure the long‑term financial sustainability of the diocese. Among her many achievements, she directed the sale of Church House, Deansgate, and oversaw the successful relocation of the diocesan offices to St John’s House, Bury. Most recently, she led the development of a major bid to the National Church, securing funding that will support the mission and ministry of our diocese for years to come – with a particular focus on Parish Renewal, Growing Younger, Church Planting and Revitalisation, and Developing Missional Leaders.

Reflecting on her time in our diocese, Helen said:

“It has been a privilege and an honour to serve the people of Manchester Diocese over the last seven years. We have achieved a lot together during this time. As a church volunteer myself, I know how rewarding and sometimes how challenging church life can be. I shall be looking on with huge interest and anticipation as this important work continues, so that we can continue to be that place where people, whoever they are, whatever their circumstances, can come to know the love of Jesus.”

Wishing Helen well ahead of her retirement, Bishop David Walker said:

“Helen has been an outstanding servant of Christ, leaving an impact on our diocese that will be felt for many years to come. As we bid her farewell, her legacy is visible in the clarity of vision that we all share, the effective and committed team that she has built, and the pioneering new move to our modern offices, meeting and training facilities at St John’s House. Helen’s financial acumen also leaves us in a stronger financial position and I appreciate all she has given to this role. Helen leaves with my deep gratitude and my prayers for a joyful and fulfilling retirement.”

Canon John Walsh, OBE, Chair of the Diocesan Board of Finance, added:

“All teams need a great leader, and Helen has been exceptional for all those who serve in our diocese. I am deeply grateful for her support as I have taken up the role of Chair, and her collaborative approach is evident in the strong shared vision we now hold for the future. On behalf of everyone in the diocese, I offer Helen our sincere thanks and wish her health and happiness in the years ahead.”

Helen will be greatly missed. We are so appreciative of or her unfailing dedication, wisdom, and service, and we wish her every happiness in her retirement.

Helen’s successor, Karen Higgins, will begin in post on Wednesday, ensuring a smooth transition.