Executive Director-Ministry

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, including Theological Education & Clergy Formation for North America and Annual Conference Partnerships; Theological Education & Clergy Formation for Europe, Philippines, & Africa and Annual Conference partnerships; Center for Integrative Pastoral Practices; UM Endorsement Agency; Global Contextual Ministries among other areas. 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 overseen by the agency, including the development and implementation of comprehensive, long-term strategies for the various ministries as well as the daily operations and performance. 
• Under the leadership of the board and the General Secretary, and in collaboration with partners throughout the denomination, 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.
• Providing strong leadership and team management, fostering a positive work culture while managing and motivating team members for strategic, missional, and program excellence, including the management of the budget and financial systems in their area of responsibility, in particular, and the agency, in general.
• Monitor and assess the effectiveness of ordained and licensed ministry programs worldwide, implementing improvements as needed, per the mandates of the agency and the Book of Discipline.
• Design and create collaborative partnerships for comprehensive continuing education programs for ordained and licensed ministers, including leadership training, theological studies, character, and spiritual formation experiences.
• Work closely with other organizational and ministry leaders to ensure alignment between ordained ministry and broader organizational goals throughout the world-wide connection; in particular, Boards of Ordained Ministry, the Bishops and Cabinets, and other Annual Conference leaders. Play a key role in the Course of Study, including work on its revisions.
• Maintain open communication with ordained and licensed ministers, gathering feedback and addressing concerns.
• Serving as one of the public faces of GBHEM and acting as external representative at U.S. and Global UMC ministry events, conferences, and engagements in consultation with and on behalf of the General Secretary.

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, for GBHEM, the staff, board of directors, and our UM-related constituencies throughout the UMC world-wide connection; provide significant and dynamic support to and advocacy for GBHEM, the UMC, and denominational leadership throughout the world-wide Methodist/Wesleyan connection and with our ecumenical partners.
• In alignment with GBHEM’s historic commitment to theological education and ordained ministry, and in relationship with our collaborative partners, successfully support UMC denominational leadership, and the related Pan-Methodist and ecumenical collaborative partners throughout the world; developing and implementing the strategic plan of the agency; developing budgets, allocation of resources, and stewardship of related denominational educational funds.
• Promote an organizational culture and team management style that fosters intercultural awareness and mindfulness throughout GBHEM and with our constituencies, including a system of mutual accountability, collaborative innovation, and missional effectiveness. 

Education and Experience:

• Requires an advanced theological degree (Master of Divinity or equivalent); preferably a doctorate degree, with significant experience in pastoral ministry; ordained elder in full connection in the UMC.
• At least five years of management experience in a senior management role, demonstrating a track record of successful organizational management. Experience in ordained ministry work, nonprofit program management, fundraising, or operations will be beneficial. 
• Knowledge of UMC history, doctrine, and polity and the organizational structure of the church, including the legislative process of the UMC.
• Proven intercultural leadership skills with a demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and teams across diverse geographical regions. The ability to inspire and guide a team is critical, demonstrating how to make informed decisions while effectively delegating tasks. Proven capability to lead staff in complex and diverse environments. 
• Communication - strong verbal and written communication skills and contextually appropriate interpersonal skills are important to conveying ideas, building relationships, providing constructive feedback, and being a spokesperson for the organization.
• Deep understanding of global cultural contexts and the challenges faced by ministers in various settings.
• Commitment to ethical conduct and adherence to organizational values.
• Adaptability - willingness to adapt and thrive in dynamic environments and embrace new ideas.
• Strategic thinking - critical thinking is essential to analyze complex situations and develop long-term strategies to meet organizational goals.
• Problem-solving - a creative and analytical mindset is key to identifying challenges, developing solutions, and making informed decisions.
• Collaboration - when working in a diverse team, it is important to collaborate with various stakeholders, foster teamwork, and build strong partnerships.
• Integrity - as a leading representative of the agency, the role demands a strong ethical foundation whereby you demonstrate honesty, transparency, and a commitment to ethical practices.
• 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. Applications must highlight competencies against requirements, potential start date, and provide at least three professional references.

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.