Executive Director, Flourishing Pastor Network Lilly Grant

Executive Director, Flourishing Pastor Network Lilly Grant

Join to apply for the Executive Director, Flourishing Pastor Network Lilly Grant role at Grand Canyon University
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Grand Canyon University is one of Arizona’s leading institutions of higher learning. Located in the Valley of Sun in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona, GCU is a regionally accredited, private, nondenominational Christian University.

The College of Theology is seeking an Executive Program Director with faculty responsibilities to begin in the spring semester of 2026. This full‑time position provides vital leadership and oversight of Grand Canyon Theological Seminary’s (GCTS’s) new Flourishing Pastor Network (FPN) in collaboration with seminary leadership, faculty, and network partners. It is a 12‑month administrative role that will entail a limited teaching load after initial network development.

Location: Main Campus

Benefits: Full benefits portfolio including tuition package.

• Provide vital leadership and oversight for the Flourishing Pastor Network (FPN).
• Complete required reports related to grant funding in alignment with outcomes and evaluation plans articulated within the grant proposal.
• Manage the FPN grant budget and submit required reports related to expenditures for grant‑related activities.
• Guide development of internal reporting and analysis of data to fulfill grant‑related outcomes and the overarching objectives of the FPN.
• Coordinate with key FPN leaders in the development of a shared infrastructure that supports a sustainable network for pastoral residencies.
• Engage effectively with network partners to ensure alignment to network goals and fulfillment of all network‑related objectives.
• Coordinate with key FPN leaders to host and lead regular coordination meetings for Program Directors (virtually).
• Travel to network partner sites to support regular dialogue and coordination across the FPN.
• Collaborate with FPN and GCTS leaders to plan and assist in leading annual meetings of the FPN.
• Develop and manage strategic partnerships with local churches in support of pastoral residency programs and the objectives and learning competencies of associated degree programs, expanding the overall church network of GCTS.
• Host strategic events with local church leaders and coordinate activities in support of strategic partnership development, providing resources and support in service to leaders within the ecclesial community.
• Assist with programmatic development, training, and support of key personnel within the FPN.
• Work with key stakeholders to support and incorporate academic, spiritual, and practical aspects of the seminary’s mission in curricular and co‑curricular programming.
• Work collaboratively to support deployment of students for pastoral residency opportunities and graduates for ministry roles.
• Teach courses online or on the main campus after initial network development.
• Actively participate in department, college, and university committees.
• Other duties as assigned.

• PhD or DMin from an accredited institution in biblical studies, theology or Christian history, practical theology, or ministry is required.
• 10 years combined teaching experience at the college level or in combination with church‑based educational activities.
• Demonstrated experience in developing strong relational and supportive networks with local pastors and churches.
• Experience in academic administration or relevant managerial experience is preferred.
• Ability to provide portfolio of experiences with local church and its activities as well as sample sermons, curriculum lessons, etc.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to affirm and teach in accordance with the university’s Doctrinal Statement, Ethical Positions Statement and the College of Theology Covenant.
• Successful completion of background checks.

• Exceptional workplace benefits including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, a 401k savings plan.
• Generous time off plan and 11 paid holidays.
• Paid time off to volunteer in the community or at GCU sponsored events.
• Free covered parking.
• Education Tuition Discount Program for full‑time employees, their spouses, and dependent children.
• Free on‑site gyms at all our office locations.