Join Our Team: Associate to the Bishop for Candidacy, Events, and Governance
The Southeastern Iowa Synod (ELCA) is seeking a visionary, organized, and relationally-driven leader to serve as the Associate to the Bishop for Candidacy, Events, and Governance.
In this role, you will steward candidacy discernment, synod life, and structural integrity. You will be a primary partner to the Bishop, acting as a guide for those discerning a call to ministry, an architect for our synod gatherings, and a resource for the governance that empowers our mission.
The Role at a Glance
This is a Full-Time, Exempt position based in Iowa City (with hybrid flexibility) that is co-terminus with the Bishop. You will manage three vital functional areas:
Candidacy: Nurture the next generation of leaders. You will walk alongside individuals discerning a call to rostered ministry, managing the ELCA candidacy process with empathy and expertise.
Events: Manage events from the Synod Assembly to retreats and generosity events, you will lead the logistics and hospitality that bring our synod together.
Governance: You will facilitate the work of the Synod Council and various committees, while providing essential guidance on constitutions and record retention.
Who You Are
A Relationship Builder: You thrive on connecting with people—from prospective candidates to congregational leaders and regional colleagues.
A Project Manager: You love a good spreadsheet, a well-managed budget, and the satisfaction of a flawlessly executed event.
A Governance Guide: You understand that clear rules and sound governance are the foundations that allow ministry to flourish.
A Person of Faith: You possess a deep appreciation for Lutheran theology, vocation, and the unique life of the ELCA.
Key Responsibilities
Facilitate Discernment: Lead the Candidacy Committee, manage the Fund for Leaders, and curate resources for those exploring their calling.
Lead Major Events: Oversee synod events and manage all logistics (contracts, catering, registration, and debriefing) for the Synod Assembly and professional gatherings.
Support Synod Operations: Partner with the Bishop to build agendas for the Synod Council, oversee digital archives (SODA), and consult with congregations on their governance documents.
Collaborate Broadly: Represent the Bishop at public events and work closely with the Office of the Bishop staff to share the "Good News" across our synod.
Qualifications & Benefits
Education: Undergraduate degree required.
Skills: Exceptional organizational, computer, and communication skills.
Work Style: An ability to maintain strict confidentiality and work both independently and as part of a high-functioning team.
Environment: Enjoy a hybrid work model with an office at the Center for Ministry in Iowa City, a phone allowance, and provided computer equipment.
Are You Called to This Work?
If you are passionate about the future of the church and possess the unique blend of heart and "head for business" needed to lead these areas, we want to hear from you.
Please send a cover letter and resume to current@seiasynod.org
We will interview as resumes are received until the position is filled.
Nothing in this job description restricts the supervisor’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.