What are the responsibilities and job description for the Executive Assistance to the Dean position at Christ Church Cathedral, Houston?
Job Title: Executive Assistant to the Dean
Organization: Christ Church (Episcopal) Cathedral
Location: Houston, Texas
Reports To: The Very Reverend Nathaniel Katz, Dean
Position Overview
The Executive Assistant (EA) provides high-level administrative, strategic, and liturgical support
to the Dean of the Cathedral. Operating at the intersection of church administration and civic
engagement, the EA serves as the primary gatekeeper and liaison between the Dean’s office,
the Vestry, the Congregation, the Diocese, and the broader metropolitan community.
This role requires a blend of professional sophistication, emotional intelligence, and a deep
appreciation for the traditions and mission of the Episcopal Church. Due to the nature of this
position candidate must maintain a high level of discretion and confidentiality.
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic Administrative Support
Manage the Dean’s complex calendar, prioritizing meetings that align with the Cathedral’s
strategic vision and the Dean’s pastoral obligations.
Coordinate high-level travel arrangements and prepare detailed itineraries for diocesan
conventions, speaking engagements, and pilgrimages.
- Prepare and edit correspondence, reports, and briefing materials for meetings with civic
leaders and church officials.
- Provide regular coverage support to the Cathedral’s primary reception desk.
2. Liturgical & Special Event Coordination
- Collaborate with the Canon Vicar and Music Department to ensure the Dean’s participation
in weekly services and major feasts (Christmas, Holy Week, Easter) is seamless.
- Assist in the planning and execution of special occasions, such as ordinations, funerals,
civic and interfaith events.
- Maintain the Dean’s vestments and liturgical calendar, ensuring all seasonal transitions are
handled with care.
3. Liaison & Communication
- Act as the face of the Dean’s office, welcoming guests—from parishioners in crisis to
visiting dignitaries—with hospitality and discretion.
- Liaise with the Vestry (the governing board), the Endowment Board and Cathedral House
Montessori School Board by organizing meetings, preparing agendas, confirming minutes,
and tracking action items.
- Coordinate with the Communications Director to manage the Dean’s public schedule and
social media presence.
Qualifications
- Experience: 5 years of experience as an Executive Assistant, ideally in a non-profit,
religious, or academic setting.
- Ecclesial Knowledge: While you don’t need to be Episcopalian, a strong familiarity with
Episcopal liturgy, terminology, and church structure is highly preferred.
- Communication: Exceptional writing and editing skills; ability to draft everything from
formal letters to empathetic pastoral responses.
- Discretion: Absolute commitment to confidentiality regarding sensitive pastoral and
personnel matters.
- Tech Savvy: Proficiency in Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Slack, and database
management (e.g., Realm, Blackbaud or Planning Center).
- Certifications: Currently hold or willing to obtain a notary license.
The Ideal Candidate
You are a calm in the storm; type of person. You understand that in a Cathedral setting, a
typical Tuesday can shift from a high-stakes staff meeting to a pastoral emergency in a
heartbeat. You have a keen eye for detail, a heart for service, and perhaps a bit of wit to keep
the office atmosphere light during the busy seasons of the church year.
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary Range: $70,000.00 – $75,000.00 (Commensurate with experience).
- Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance, generous PTO (including time off for major
church holidays), and a pension plan through the Church Pension Group (CPG).
- Work Environment: A historic, beautiful office space in the heart of the city.
How to Apply
Please submit a cover letter and resume to humanresources@christchurchcathedral.org. In
your cover letter, please mention one thing you find compelling about the role of a Cathedral in
a modern urban environment.
Salary : $70,000 - $75,000