Chief Mission Officer

The Chief Mission Officer compliments the President in the work of integrating the mission of Georgian Court University and its identity as a Catholic University animated by its Mercy heritage and charism. At the direction of the president, the executive director will assist in articulating, coordinating, assessing and integrating the mission into the life and ethos of the institution.

The Chief Mission Officer will also oversee the Office of Mission and Ministry; supervising its staff and directing its ministries which include: 1) animating GCU’s Mercy identity through service and social justice programming, 2) gathering a diverse faith community for prayer, reflection and fellowship, 3) cultivating servant leaders and 4) witnessing to the good news of Jesus Christ and a Catholic embrace of diversity and solidarity.  

Essential Functions:

• Sponsorship, CMHE and Ecclesial Relations:   Foster university relationships with Sisters of Mercy, CMHE and Church authorities (Attending CMHE meetings, Peer Assessment/Mid-term report, etc.)
• Catholic Social Teaching and Critical Concerns:  Ensure that CIT, CST and the Critical Concerns are integrated into the life of the university.   (Includes planning of GCU’s annual Critical Concerns Week)
• Ongoing Formation for Mission:  Work to deepen the university community’s understanding and embodiment of its Catholic/Mercy identity.  (Includes, as necessary, work with the Board of Trustees, University Advisory Council, PLC and various committees, student organizations.)
• Hiring, Orientation and Onboarding:  Interview new faculty and (higher-level) administrative candidates and provide ongoing orientation and mission formation for new hires.  (i.e. mission interview, new employee breakfast, etc.)
• Space, Art, Symbolism and Environment:  Cultivate art and environment that reflects the sacred and inspires GCU’s mission, identity and story.
• Worship, Reflection and Ritual:  Support the sacramental/liturgical life of the university and provide inclusive prayer, ritual and retreat opportunities.  
• Community Engagement:  Facilitate mutually beneficial relationships with the surrounding communities that foster partnerships, celebration, volunteer service, charitable drives and engagement with social justice issues. 
• Curricular/Co-Curricular Development:  Assist faculty and staff as requested for integrating the Mission into courses and programing
• Other duties and projects as necessary.

Qualifications:

• Advanced degree in a relevant discipline
• At least 5 years of experience in mission and/or ministry
• Knowledge and commitment to the teachings and mission of the Catholic Church
• Ability to articulate the Mercy charism and inspire others to partner in the mission of the Sisters of Mercy
• Proven management and mentoring skills
• Ability to establish rapport with all segments of University community
• Excellent listening, communication and relational skills 
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, students and the general public
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and ability to learn and utilize other software, platforms and social media
• Ability to maintain the highest degree of confidentiality

**MUST BE US WORK AUTHORIZED**