Diocese of Phoenix Mission and Programs
Phoenix, AZ
Executive Director of Mission Advancement
The Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix is one of the fastest-growing dioceses in the United States, with more than 300,000 Catholics joining in the last ten years. Led by the Most Rev. John P. Dolan, more than 1.1 million Catholics make this diverse, vibrant, and faith-filled diocese their home. The faithful worship, receive the sacraments and participate in the many activities and social events at one of the 94 parishes and 23 missions. More than 15,000 students attend one of the 29 Catholic elementary schools, seven high schools, three universities, and one seminary in the Diocese of Phoenix. And thanks to the community’s generous support of the Charity and Development Appeal, more than 70 community and charitable organizations are able to provide hands-on help for seniors, the homeless, those who have lost jobs, women who have been abused, and families in crisis.
Purpose and Scope of the Position
To support the Diocese of Phoenix in its mission of encountering the living Christ, this position is responsible for assisting the Bishop in fulfilling the vision and mission of the Office of Mission Advancement for the Diocese of Phoenix; to broaden and deepen the relationship of the Bishop with the faithful; to drive the efforts to engage lay and pastoral leaders in advancing the work of the Diocese of Phoenix through the meaningful contribution of gifts and talents; and to advocate the mission of the diocese within our own communities and beyond.
The Executive Director of Mission Advancement (EDMA) will guide the initiatives that deliver the message and engage donors and leaders in supporting the mission of the Diocese of Phoenix. The Executive Director works in concert with the Vicar of Stewardship – providing the corporate expertise and lay understanding to compliment the pastoral direction of the Vicar. Brings strategic leadership experience to understand the evangelizing mission of the Church and helps others to recognize how their gifts serve the overall mission. Proactive and engaging, this position links the work of the diocese with pastoral and community leadership – through effective communication and thoughtful engagement.
The Executive Director of Mission Advancement will report to the Vicar General/Moderator of the Curia as an agent of the Bishop and consult with the Vicar of Stewardship to provide the pastoral message of Christian stewardship and missionary discipleship.
Essential Job Functions:
- Sets and directs goals and attainment strategies for core programs in the Office of Mission Advancement. The Executive Director of Mission Advancement is responsible and accountable for diocesan stewardship goals – including the Charity and Development Appeal, major and planned gifts, capital campaign, and parish outreach. Annual and campaign-oriented goals will be set to address dollars raised, increases in number of donors and donor giving levels, number of cultivation calls, and demonstrated progress toward solicitation.
- Articulates the clear mission and unified message of the Diocese of Phoenix and its key priorities, including campaigns and initiatives.
- Provides executive-level counsel to the Bishop, serving with his key strategic leadership team. Provides guidance to pastoral, lay, and volunteer leadership.
- Cultivates and retains effective relationships with donor and leadership prospects. The Executive Director of Mission Advancement will skillfully guide the Bishop’s time with an emphasis on leadership and major gifts.
- Collaborates with Pastoral Center Offices to assist them to articulate mission advancement within the Diocese of Phoenix.
- Develops a collaborative relationship with the leadership of the Catholic Community Foundation, Catholic Charities, Foundation for Senior Living, Catholic Education Arizona, the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, and other Catholic apostolates in consultation with the Vicar of Stewardship and Vicar General/Moderator of the Curia.
- Provides strategic oversight of all stewardship and mission advancement functions and staff.
- Oversight of the Mission Advancement Director of Engagement and Mission Advancement Director of Appeals, Executive Assistant, and office support staff.
Minimum Qualifications
- Active practicing Roman Catholic who is in full communion with the Church.
- Able to articulate a clear understanding of the Catholic faith and is a committed witness to its mission.
- BA (required); MA (preferred)
- Spanish language proficiency preferred.
- Professional certification (CFRE) is a plus.
- A minimum of seven years in planning and administering fund-raising programs preferred.
- Experience with major gifts, capital campaigns, and planned giving.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Experience working with C-level executives.
- Able to lead and collaborate with diocesan leaders.
- Experience directing and motivating all levels of staff, volunteers, donors, and prospects.
- Proactive ability to network and cultivate relationships.
- Strong organizational skills, including goal setting, team management and prioritization.
- A high degree of credibility, integrity, and self-confidence is essential.
- Evening/weekend work occasionally required as well as travels to cultivate donors.
- Valid driver’s license.
To Apply
This search is being conducted by Ruotolo Associates, Inc. Interested applicants are requested to submit a resume and cover letter to: [email protected]
Please include “Diocese of Phoenix Executive Director” in the subject line.
References will be requested of all finalists but may be submitted along with resume and cover letter.