Logo
The United Methodist Church

Executive Director - Ministry

The United Methodist Church, Nashville, Tennessee, United States,


General Board of Higher Education & Ministry

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE 37212

FULL TIME

Executive Director – Ministry

Remote

Overview:

As stewards of the educational mission and intellectual life of The United Methodist Church, the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) connects the mission of the church and the academy and develops transformational leaders for the ministry of the church. Elders, deacons, and licensed local pastors benefit from our training and candidacy programs. Young adults find help in clarifying their vocation and God’s call on their lives through our leadership and discernment programs. GBHEM also supports and connects networks of more than 1,000 United Methodist and Methodist-related schools, colleges, and universities around the world.

About the Role:

The Executive Director of Ministry is a senior executive leader who works with, under the supervision of, and on behalf of the General Secretary to devise strategic direction, development, and support of all ministry programs within GBHEM, both domestically and internationally. This role focuses on ensuring alignment with the organization's mission and values along with those of the UMC by reimagining, developing, and managing certification, licensing, and ordination processes for the connection; facilitating and/or providing for the ongoing support and leadership training of clergy; overseeing day-to-day operations and performance; decision-making; and leading and guiding senior management within all ministry programs and fostering a strong global community of ordained and licensed clergy.

Key Responsibilities:

Overseeing the strategic direction of the credentialed, licensed, and ordained ministry programs of the UMC, including the development and implementation of comprehensive, long-term strategies for the various ministries as well as the daily operations and performance.

Reimagine and support the forms and expressions of credentialed ministry fit for the 21st century. Collaborate with regional leaders to identify and support ministries in different geographical and cultural contexts.

Provide strong leadership and team management, fostering a positive work culture while managing and motivating team members for strategic, missional, and program excellence.

Monitor and assess the effectiveness of ordained and licensed ministry programs worldwide, implementing improvements as needed.

Design and create collaborative partnerships for comprehensive continuing education programs for ordained and licensed ministers.

Maintain open communication with ordained and licensed ministers, gathering feedback and addressing concerns.

Serve as one of the public faces of GBHEM and act as an external representative at U.S. and Global UMC ministry events, conferences, and engagements.

Major Accountabilities:

Provide executive leadership for the design, development, and implementation of ministry strategies and relationships that support our historic mission of creating principled Christian leaders.

Promote an organizational culture and team management style that fosters intercultural awareness and mindfulness throughout GBHEM.

Education and Experience:

Requires an advanced theological degree (Master of Divinity or equivalent); preferably a doctorate degree, with significant experience in pastoral ministry; ordained within the UMC.

At least five years of management experience in a senior management role, demonstrating a track record of successful organizational management.

Knowledge of UMC history, doctrine, and polity and the organizational structure of the church.

Proven intercultural leadership skills with a demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and teams across diverse geographical regions.

Strong verbal and written communication skills and contextually appropriate interpersonal skills.

Deep understanding of global cultural contexts and the challenges faced by ministers in various settings.

Commitment to ethical conduct and adherence to organizational values.

Willingness to adapt and thrive in dynamic environments and embrace new ideas.

Critical thinking to analyze complex situations and develop long-term strategies.

Creative and analytical mindset to identify challenges and develop solutions.

Ability to collaborate with various stakeholders and build strong partnerships.

Strong ethical foundation demonstrating honesty and transparency.

In-depth knowledge of relevant computer tools and technologies.

Working Conditions:

Location: U.S. Remote

Hours: 37.5 hrs/week; Mon-Friday 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Travel as required, domestically and internationally, to attend events, meetings, training, etc.

Evening and weekend meetings as necessary.

Full-time; Salaried/Exempt

What We Offer and How to Apply:

A competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, retirement plan, HSA/FSA, and other health and welfare benefits.

Qualified candidates should submit a cover letter and resume, along with a digitally signed employment application through the applicant portal links below.

Our goal is to fill the position as soon as possible, so do not wait to apply!

The General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively encourages applications from minorities, women, and individuals with disabilities. Applicants must meet the minimum requirements in terms of qualifications. All offers of employment are subject to the applicant successfully completing background, reference, and other applicable screenings.

Applicants for employment will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender), sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, military or veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable federal, state, or local law, ordinance or regulation, except where inconsistent with the religious principles of The United Methodist Church.

Organization: General Board of Higher Education & Ministry

Contact: Brenda Camire

Closing Date: 01/10/2025

#J-18808-Ljbffr