A former council cabinet member and NHS strategist has been appointed to lead the Church of England’s Faith and Public Life team.

Dr Linsay Cunningham will join the National Church Institutions from NHS Humber Health Partnership, having previously worked as a researcher in the House of Commons, a local council cabinet member, and in charities such as the Girls’ Brigade. 

Based at Lambeth Palace, Dr Cunningham will lead the Church’s team in bringing a distinctive Christian voice to matters of public policy, ethics and political life. She will also offer theological support for the Church’s concerns, alongside providing engagement with other churches and religious groups.

As the established church, the team supports the ministries of the Archbishops of Canterbury and York, alongside the 26 bishops in the House of Lords. 

Dr Cunningham said: “I am honoured and delighted to be taking up this new role. When so much in our politics and public life seems divided and divisive, the work of the Faith and Public Life team is more important than ever. I am really looking forward to working alongside the team to support the Church to speak with grace and truth into our national debates.”

She will start the role in September, taking over from interim director Richard Chapman, who stepped in after the death of Richard Sudworth. 

Mark Sheard, chair of the Mission and Public Affairs Council, said: “I am delighted to welcome Linsay. She joins at a time of both challenge but also opportunity. Her visionary mindset and proven leadership gifts make her the perfect fit to guide our excellent Faith and Public Life team to meet their challenges and seize the opportunities.”