Checking we are Getting it Right

A review of the ADMSC accounting and payroll services

Henry Ford said. “If you always do what you have always done, you will always get what you have always got”. That is why it is helpful at times to review what you do and see if it could be done, not differently, but better.

So, the accounting firm BDO reviewed the work of the Anglican Diocesan Ministry Support Centre (ADMSC) accounting and payroll services to see what, if any, improvements could be made.

The ADMSC accounting team of Nikki Gin, Jocelyn Kubala, Celeste Chai and Paul Dumaguin, managed by the Diocesan Finance Manager, Lynda Alexander provides accounting services and reporting for 30 of the parishes in the Diocese, the Cathedral and other related entities. In addition, they maintain the accounts and financial reports of the Diocese, and ADMSC.

The Payroll Officer, Kay Wilson, assisted one day a week by Sharon Prebble from Anglican Care, reports directly to the Diocesan Manager. Kay manages the monthly payroll for over 300 people consisting of the monthly payroll for all our clergy, and the fortnightly payrolls for Anglian Care, the Cathedral, parish staff and the Anglican Centre.

BDO sought feedback from users of the accounting scheme and payroll services. The review made recommendations across nine areas. The recommendations varied in complexity from minor changes in the way accounts are administered through to the more major introduction of new software. Edwin and Lynda considered the recommendations did they suit us and make a tangible difference? Were they feasible? They then wrote an implementation plan that focused initially on recommendations considered most worthy, some of which have already been implemented, while others will require considerable staff time to resource and implement but will be worth it in the long run.

One of the major recommendations is the introduction of online time sheets and scheduling for staff at the City Mission. We’ve already spoken to three companies to find a suitable solution, and one that may also be used, eventually, with parishes. Another major recommendation is extending the use of

In an era of ever-increasing compliance and regulations (that make it difficult for volunteers to do parish accounts) the team are pleased to hear that parish treasurers were ‘highly satisfied’ with the accounting service. This is good news.

“I am grateful that the finance team, directed by Lynda and Edwin, frequently go the extra mile to serve our people and parishes,” says Dean Lawrence Kimberley, Chair of the ADMSC Governance Board.

“The system enhancements we are looking into will make sure our financial services to parishes continue to improve. Much of the work of a finance team is hidden and unseen, and yet is incredibly important for the smooth running of the Diocese. Please support us as we work through and implement these changes. I don’t know about you, but I look forward to updating systems, streamlining effort, and generally working smarter (not harder) in support of God’s mission within our Diocese.”