Archbishop of Canterbury job advert goes live – and for the first time they could be a woman

A job description for the next Archbishop of Canterbury has gone live, seeking a leader with the "utmost integrity" -  and, for the first time in the church's history, they could be a woman.

Justin Welby left the vacancy in January after resigning following a damning review into the Church of England's handling of an abuse scandal. The archbishop is the most senior bishop and is the spiritual leader of the church and worldwide Anglican Communion.

This week, a so-called 'statement of needs' was published by the Diocese of Canterbury, setting out a long list of requirements for the 106th archbishop. These include: • A person with "theological depth" who is a strong communicator with people of all ages and backgrounds;• Someone of the "utmost integrity who is able to speak honestly" about issues and injustices in the church;• A "servant leader who shows compassion towards the disadvantaged and marginalised";• Being "unapologetic about offering a Christian perspective to local, national, and international dialogue";• A willingness to ordain and consecrate both men and women, support the ministry of both, and may themselves be male or female;• Having previously "worked, and will continue to work constructively" around ongoing discussions around blessing services for same-sex couples, but also someone who can "embrace" both those who support and oppose same-sex marriage in the church.

Women have been ordained in the Church of England for a number of years, but no woman has ever been in the top role. Read more on Sky News:Trump and Musk's extraordinary spat minute-by-minuteDavid Beckham to be knightedGaza marks start of Eid with outdoor prayers in rubble Candidates have historically already held senior leadership roles.

They must be at least 30 years old - and generally younger than 70. Typically, rather than applying, candidates are "invited" to take part in the process.

Earlier this year, a public consultation with over 11,000 people took place to give people the opportunity to submit candidates and desirable qualities. It is thought the candidate could be announced by the autumn, a year after Mr Welby resigned from the job.

Mr Welby announced he was stepping down in November 2024 following failures in handling a church abuse scandal involving barrister and religious camp leader John Smyth QC. He is thought to be the most prolific abuser associated with the church..