Executive Director - Catholic Cemeteries of New Orleans

Archdiocese of New Orleans•New Orleans, LA

70d

About The Position

The Executive Director of Catholic Cemeteries of New Orleans leads the ministry’s mission to provide dignified burials for people of all faiths in alignment with the Gospel of Jesus Christ, while offering pastoral care to families and friends of the deceased. The role oversees operations, financial management, and strategic planning across thirteen cemeteries in New Orleans and one in Luling, including historic St. Louis Cemetery #1. The Executive Director is responsible for cemetery operations, customer service, facilities management, perpetual care property oversight, and historic restoration, ensuring these sacred spaces are respected, maintained, and preserved in accordance with Catholic values and traditions. The Executive Director provides strategic leadership in consultation with the Board of Directors and the Archdiocese; develops long-term financial and operational plans; manages daily cemetery services, properties, facilities, and regulatory compliance; prepares and oversees the annual budget and pricing; and fosters relationships with families, parishes, and the wider community. The role also leads stewardship, historic preservation, sustainability, fundraising, and staff management, and collaborates with Archdiocesan leadership and external stakeholders. The position requires a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Management, Religious Studies, or a related field; at least five years of leadership experience, preferably in a nonprofit, religious, or cemetery-management setting; and experience managing teams, finances, and public-facing work. Ten years of Catholic Cemeteries experience is preferred. Candidates should bring strong leadership, organizational, interpersonal, communication, financial, and operational skills, knowledge of Catholic teachings and traditions relating to death, burial, and cemetery care, and a deep commitment to and understanding of the Catholic faith and cemetery ministry. The work includes an office environment and oversight of cemetery grounds and facilities, with occasional travel and outdoor site visits, inspections, or meetings. Salary and benefits are commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Management, Religious Studies, or a related field.
At least 5 years of leadership experience, preferably in a nonprofit, religious, or cemetery-management setting.
Experience managing teams, overseeing financials, and dealing with the public.
Strong leadership, management, and organizational skills.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to work effectively with clergy, staff, and community members from diverse backgrounds.
Ability to manage complex financial and operational systems and strategies.
Knowledge of Catholic teachings and traditions, particularly regarding death, burial, and cemetery care.
Deep commitment to the Catholic faith and its practices, and understanding of and respect for the sacred nature of cemetery ministry.
Ability to work in an office environment and oversee activities at cemetery grounds and facilities.
Ability to travel occasionally and work outdoors for site visits, inspections, or meetings.

Nice To Haves

At least 10 years of Catholic Cemeteries experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide visionary leadership and strategic direction in consultation with the Board of Directors and the Archdiocese.
Develop and implement long-term plans and financial and operational strategies to sustain the cemeteries.
Promote a positive working environment through staff engagement, mentorship, and professional development.
Oversee daily cemetery operations, including burial services, maintenance, and facility management.
Manage cemetery properties, grounds maintenance, plot sales, monument installation, buildings, and infrastructure.
Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal cemetery-operation regulations.
Prepare and manage the annual budget, monitor financial performance, and implement cost-effective measures.
Develop revenue-growth strategies and oversee pricing for burial plots, memorial services, and related products and services.
Build positive relationships with parishioners, families, and community members and provide compassionate, respectful, professional service.
Address customer inquiries and concerns promptly and with care.
Work with the Archdiocese to strengthen relationships between Catholic Cemeteries and local parishes and enhance ministry to the grieving and bereaved.
Preserve historic burial sites, monuments, sacred spaces, and the historical character of the cemeteries.
Promote and implement environmental sustainability practices in cemetery management and operations.
Oversee fundraising for cemetery preservation and special projects.
Supervise, hire, and evaluate staff and support their professional development.
Foster respect, teamwork, and adherence to Catholic values among staff.
Ensure employees receive necessary training in health, safety, and regulatory requirements.
Collaborate with Archdiocesan leadership, including Finance and Operations teams, to align cemetery work with the Archdiocese’s mission.
Represent Catholic Cemeteries in external engagements with public authorities, contractors, and other stakeholders.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Board of Directors or designated authority.