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.”