Executive Director

The Shrine of Christ's Passion

St. John, IN

Send applications or inquiries to: hshoemake@schillings.com

Job Description

The Executive Director provides strategic, operational, and mission-centered leadership for The Shrine of Christ's Passion. This role oversees daily operations and the Gift Shoppe and Prayer Trail and ensures the long-term sustainability of The Shrine as a premier spiritual destination.

Location: St. John, Indiana (On-site, Work days to be determined); some travel required

Key Responsibilities:

• Operations & Administration
• Ensure a safe, welcoming, and spiritually enriching environment for all visitors
• Provide direct supervision to all supervisors and managers
• Oversee daily operations, including the Gift Shoppe, Prayer Trail, attractions, facilities, visitor services, and grounds
• Executive in charge of the Gift Shoppe's operations, merchandising, inventory management, vendor relationships, staffing, and financial performance
• Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and reporting
• Ensure compliance with nonprofit regulations, audits, and 990 requirements
• Coordinate strategic partnerships with tour groups, excursions and similar companies to bring visitors to the Shrine

Board Relations & Governance

• Serve as the primary liaison to the Board of Directors
• Prepare board meeting materials, agendas, and documentation
• Collaborate with the Board on strategic priorities and organizational oversight

Leadership, Culture & Staff Development

• Foster a culture of hospitality, excellence, and mission alignment
• Lead staff and volunteers with clarity, empathy, and accountability
• Maintain policies, procedures, and risk management practices
• Ensure adherence to all federal, state, and local nonprofit regulations

Public Relations, Strategic Partnerships & Community Engagement

• Serve as the public face of the Shrine with professionalism and integrity
• Promote the Shrine's mission and programs through effective communication and outreach
• Cultivate partnerships with churches, diocesan leaders, religious schools, civic organizations, leaders and community groups
• Build and maintain strong relationships with foundations and philanthropic partners
• Attend and host events, gatherings, and community functions

Qualifications:

• Practicing Christian
• Commitment to the values of The Shrine of Christ's Passion and understanding of the Christian faith, its teaching and the Lord
• Excellent communication, relationship-building, and organizational abilities
• Strong financial management, budgeting, and administrative skills
• Bachelor's degree is preferred
• Experience overseeing retail environments, or visitor centers is desired
• Demonstrated success in fundraising and donor relations is desired
• Familiarity with AI concepts and modern digital tools is desired

Mission: "To provide a prayerful environment where all people can open their hearts to the journey of Christ's Passion and draw closer to the Lord."

Send applications or inquiries to: hshoemake@schillings.com

About the Employer

To provide a prayerful environment where all people can open their hearts to the journey of Christ's Passion and draw closer to the Lord.