Executive for Synod Relations

About the ELCA The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) is one of the largest Christian denominations in the United States, with 3 million members in more than 8,600 worshiping communities across the 50 states and in the Caribbean region. Known as the church of “God’s work. Our hands.”, the ELCA emphasizes the saving grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, unity among Christians and service in the world. The ELCA’s roots are in the writings of the German church reformer Martin Luther. The Lutheran Center (national office) is located in Chicago, Illinois. A staff of approximately 400, under the leadership of the Presiding Bishop, serve as administrators, advisors, conveners, partners, and resource people for the ELCA and its ministries. Staff lead the work of national, domestic, and global ministries and programs including Lutheran Disaster Response, ELCA World Hunger, Service & Justice, Christian Community and Leadership, and Innovation. We are also home to five of our separately incorporated ministries: The Mission Investment Fund of the ELCA, Women of the ELCA, Lutheran Men in Mission, the ELCA Foundation and the ELCA Federal Credit Union. About the Position The Office of the Secretary’s primary responsibility provides administrative oversight of governing documents and adherence to said documents. Other areas include record keeping, reporting, and meeting coordination. Responsibilities Oversees the coordination of relationships between the churchwide organization and synods, including regions, particularly in the area of joint ministries and programs. Provides staff services to the Conference of Bishops in order that the conference might fulfill its responsibilities, including planning and coordination of meetings. Leads the ELCA Systems Academy and its leadership team: coordination and curriculum planning of all Academy sessions, four times a year. Coordinates with synods churchwide representation at synod assemblies. Works closely with the Secretary in assisting synods with their bishop election process. Works with the Conference of Bishops to provide orientation and mentorship for newly elected bishops. Supervises Synod Relations Staff. Performs other duties as assigned. Eligibility Criteria This is a full‑time, regular, exempt, Chicago‑based/hybrid position. The position requires being in the office a minimum of 2 days per week and more as needed. Remote or hybrid eligibility may depend on residency, budget, salary, insurance coverage, and tax burden. Candidates must reside within the fifty United States or the District of Columbia and be authorized to work lawfully in the United States. Requirements 10+ years of experience with church governance, program planning, or other relevant experience. Bachelor’s degree highly preferred; advanced degree or equivalent preferred or an equivalent combination of education and experience. ELCA Rostered minister preferred. Extensive knowledge of the history, theology, traditions, practices, polity, and structure of the ELCA; awareness of theological and ecumenical trends and developments. Synod staff leadership experience preferred. Extensive knowledge, experience, and practice of Bowen family systems theory preferred. Appreciation for the mission, vision, and values of the ELCA. Demonstrated ability to provide effective leadership, support, and guidance to assigned staff. Excellent skills in speaking, writing, and editing. Extensive administrative and organizational skills; proven critical thinking and analytical skills. Strong group and interpersonal skills; awareness of pastoral care and congregational dynamics resources. Discretion, diplomacy, and respect for confidentiality. Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and anti‑racism. Demonstrated ability to invite diverse perspectives, promote an inclusive work environment and support diversity. Membership in an ELCA congregation or worshipping community. Minimum technical competency: Computer knowledge that enables you to operate a Windows computer and follow basic troubleshooting instructions. Software skills to efficiently use computer programs and applications. Ability to leverage computer knowledge and software skills to understand new software, follow process, and identify opportunities for improvement. Experience using Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Teams, Outlook, etc.) preferred. Supervision Synod Relations and Support Events Manager Physical While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear, be visible on camera, use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone. This position requires sitting for long periods of time. Reasonable accommodation can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Travel Extensive travel. Position requires extensive overnight, domestic travel by plane, car, van. Valid driver’s license preferred. This position requires travel to off‑site locations for a variety of meetings: Conference of Bishops Academy, assistant to bishop gatherings, churchwide assembly, rostered minister gatherings, spring synod assemblies, synod consultations, etc. Rarely does this position involve international travel. Benefits The ELCA offers a competitive benefits package for eligible employees, including employer paid health premiums for employees, health and dependent care FSAs, a health savings account (HSA) with an employer contribution, life insurance, and a substantial employer contribution to a 403(b) retirement plan (no match required). We also offer a generous paid time‑off policy including 17 paid holidays. All benefits commence on your start date. #J-18808-Ljbffr Evangelical Lutheran Church in America