Creating An Executive Pastor Job Description: A Guide
When hiring a new executive pastor, it may be difficult to know where to start.
But I have good news! The first step is simple: Create an exciting executive pastor job description to post online.
This post will walk you through crafting a job description that attracts the best candidates who align with your church's mission and vision. There is also a downloadable version of this template below to get you started!
The Best Executive Pastor Job Description Template
Below is a pastor job description you can use as a template:
Intro
Welcome to [Church Name]! We are seeking an experienced and visionary executive pastor to lead our congregation in [Location]. If you are dedicated to spiritual growth, raising new leaders, church growth, and embody our values of [list 3-5 key values], we invite you to consider joining our growing church.
Qualifications
Below are the qualifications we are looking for our new pastor. The executive pastor must have...
- A degree in Biblical Studies, Business Administration, or a related field from an accredited institution
- Ordination or licensing as a pastor under [Denomination] standards (if necessary)
- Proven track record in pastoral ministry, spiritual leadership, and church growth
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Proficient in organizational and administrative tasks
Responsibilities
Here is a non-exhaustive list of the responsibilities and duties the pastor of [Church Name] must fill:
- Administrative leadership of church staff
- Strategic planning alongside the senior pastor
- Financial oversight of operational fund
- Pastoral support for spiritual health and growth of the leadership team
- Resource management and implementation
Application Process
To apply for the position of Executive Pastor at [Church Name], please submit your resume, a cover letter, and any additional relevant documents to [email address]. The deadline for applications is [date]. Candidates will be contacted for an initial interview, followed by a more in-depth assessment.
Closing Statement
At [Church Name], we believe that finding the right executive pastor is a collaborative effort between the church leadership and the candidate. We look forward to welcoming a new head pastor who shares our vision and is excited to lead this church.
If you feel called to be a part of our community, we invite you to apply and join us in fulfilling our mission together.
Other Questions Your Executive Pastor Job Description Must Answer
The above template will save you so much time as you prepare to hire a new head pastor.
But if you want to guarantee that your church finds the right candidate for this position, your job posting needs to answer a few more questions:
What is the Role of an Executive Pastor?
Your job description needs to cover your church's vision for the role of the person leading your ministry team.
Articulating this vision will help new candidates know what they're taking on with this role at your church and it also helps weed out any applicants who don't share your ideals.
What Duties and Responsibilities Will the Executive Pastor Fill?
The template above includes a list of responsibilities. But your church has specific needs that won't be covered by a one-size-fits-all template.
Take some time to list out all the duties an executive pastor needs to fill at your church and include a condensed version of that list in your job posting.
Essential Knowledge and Skills?
What does a potential candidate need to know about your church to make them a good fit? Is there anything specific about your congregation, facilities, or community that a minister needs to know? Share that information in your job listing.
Also, what skills do you need a new pastor to have beyond preaching, teaching, and administration? Do they need to know how to increase fundraising yearly, oversee the expansion of the church, etc.? List any special skills you expect them to have.
Special Requirements for the Executive Pastor?
In addition to the duties, responsibilities, knowledge, and skills you need an executive pastor to know about, share any additional requirements that your church expects.
What Minimum Training and Experience?
Do you want a seasoned leader to lead your team, or do you prefer a fresh perspective? Do you want someone with a degree or prefer experience over degrees?
The job description will need to address these questions.
Executive Pastor Salary Expectations
Some candidates will expect a salary that is outside of your church's budget. Adding a salary to your job posting will save everyone time and headaches.
If a specific salary amount can't be shared publically, consider posting a salary range that a candidate can expect.
How to Create an Executive Pastor Job Description
Below are the 5 easy steps to create the best job description when looking for a new executive pastor:
- Start with a Clear Introduction - Begin your job description with a concise and inviting introduction. Clearly state the purpose of the role, the values of your church, and the impact the new pastor will have on the community. This section should capture the essence of your church and spark interest in potential candidates.
- Outline Key Responsibilities - Provide a detailed list of the pastor's primary responsibilities. Cover various aspects of the role, such as preaching, counseling, and overseeing day-to-day operations. Be specific about expectations.
- Highlight Qualifications and Skills - Clearly outline the qualifications and skills required for the position. Include both educational and experiential requirements, as well as any specific skills or attributes.
- Emphasize Cultural Fit - Express your church's unique culture and values, and encourage candidates to consider whether they align with these principles. This will help attract candidates who have the necessary qualifications and resonate with your church's vision and mission.
- Provide Information on the Application Process - Clearly outline the steps interested candidates should take to apply. Include details about submitting resumes, cover letters, other documentation, deadlines, etc.
FAQs About the Role of Executive Pastor
What qualities make a good pastor?
"Select capable men from all the people—men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain—and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. Have them serve as judges for the people at all times, but have them bring every difficult case to you; the simple cases they can decide themselves. That will make your load lighter, because they will share it with you."
Jethro admonishes Moses to appoint other leaders to handle the affairs of the Hebrew people so that Moses could focus on representing the people to God and instruct them how to live.
This is the purpose of an executive pastor. When a church gets too large for one man to manage themselves, it is good to divide the responsibilities between two or more leaders so that each can use their gifts to serve the church.
When should a church hire an executive pastor?
This is entirely up to the church.
When the lead pastor of a church is no longer able to keep up with the responsibilities of leading, it's time to consider hiring someone to share the load.
Does an executive pastor preach?
They certainly can!
An executive pastor has one job - to share the load of the lead pastor. That can include preaching, counseling, and other tasks.
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How to Find the Right Person for an Executive Pastor
The more effort you invest in creating a compelling job description, the more likely you are to attract candidates who are not only qualified but also genuinely passionate about contributing to the growth and well-being of your church.
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Matt
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