Director of Sexual Ethics

The United Methodist Church • Chicago, IL

251d • $90,000 - $105,000

About The Position

The primary purpose of the General Commission on the Status and Role of Women shall be to challenge The United Methodist Church, including its general agencies, institutions, and connectional structures, to a continuing commitment to the full and equal responsibility and participation of women in the total life and mission of the Church, sharing fully in the power and in the policy-making at all levels of the Church's life. Such commitment will confirm anew recognition of the fact that The United Methodist Church is part of the universal church, rooted in the liberating message of Jesus Christ, that recognizes every person, woman or man, as a full and equal part of God's human family. The general commission shall function as an advocate with and on behalf of women individually and collectively within The United Methodist Church; as a catalyst for the initiation of creative methods to redress inequities of the past and to prevent further inequities against women within The United Methodist Church; and as a monitor to ensure inclusiveness in the programmatic and administrative functioning of The United Methodist Church. The commission shall assist in addressing the problem of sexual misconduct in the church. The commission shall provide leadership in providing resources for the prevention of and education about misconduct of a sexual nature, training opportunities for clergy and laity, policy and procedural recommendations for transformative and administrative fair processes, victim/survivor support, and congregational healing. The commission shall promote interagency coordination through its leadership of the Interagency Sexual Ethics Task Force and by assisting annual conferences, local churches, councils, boards, commissions, schools of theology, and other related institutions in witnessing to healthy boundaries within ministerial relationships.

Requirements

• Master's Degree in related field (psychology, social work, theology, law, etc.).
• Knowledge of UMC polity, organization, and structures.
• 4 or more years working with victims of sexual misconduct, mediation, conflict resolution, victims' rights advocacy, and/or gender issues.
• 3 or more years of experience with UMC legislative work.
• Intercultural knowledge and competency are preferred.
• Experience with creation and development of training materials and leading trainings; proficient with Articulate Storyline Training tool or similar technology.
• Great proficiency with PC computer with Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Excel; cell phone (text-message proficient), Zoom, Canva, Articulate, etc.

Responsibilities

• Establish healthy relationships with bishops, cabinets, Response Teams, agencies, etc. to be a resource for consultation and help set comprehensive policies that address sexual misconduct.
• Develop and create resources for all levels of leadership within the UMC, including trainings and online resources.
• Coordinate and convene the Intra-Agency Sexual Ethics Task Force and guide in creating and facilitating the Do No Harm quadrennial training along with other necessary resources.
• Provide support and advocate for survivors of sexual misconduct and harassment by informing complainants on the process available to them under the Book of Discipline and their annual conferences.
• Recommend legislative and structural changes to the Book of Discipline to help the worldwide church live fully into the call to be the Beloved Community.
• Maintain up to date resources and reference materials for those seeking information on Just Resolutions and the Complaint Process.
• Other work as the General Secretary identifies.

Benefits

• Remote work flexibility
• Salary range of $90,000 - $105,000 based on experience
• Opportunity for professional development
• Supportive work environment focused on equality and justice

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Industry: Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations
• Education Level: Master's degree