From 1976, he was a civil servant, a clerical officer in the Department of Health and Social Security, until 1980, during which year he was awarded his BTh by the University of Southampton (as an external candidate).

Burrows then studied for the Anglican ministry at Sarum and Wells Theological College, graduating and being ordained deacon in 1983.

Burrows' first incumbency was as rector at Broughton Astley from 1987, during which time he was also Rural Dean of Guthlaxton First Deanery from 1994.

In 2000, he left his incumbency to become Parish Development Officer in the Diocese of Leicester and in 2002 he became, additionally, deputy director of Ministry.

10 Downing Street announced on 6 October 2011 that Burrows had been nominated suffragan Bishop of Doncaster in the Diocese of Sheffield.