Church Affairs Specialist

Church Affairs Specialist

Purpose of the Job

The Church Affairs Specialist reports to the Church Affairs Advisor and plays a critical role within Coptic Orphans. The incumbent would be the link and focal point of contact between the organization and the diaspora churches. The Church Affairs Specialist designs the strategies to ensure continued alliance and potential opportunities with the church.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Establish strategies for working with the church to build positive relationships with clergy members in the diaspora; to raise awareness of Coptic Orphans efforts; and to identify potential partnership and fundraising opportunities.

• Support other country offices in designing the content of their communications with clergy members e.g., emails, messages, and newsletters. Coordinate with other country offices to create promotional material e.g., brochures, videos, social media posts etc. for clergy.

• Act as the focal point of contact for all Clergy communications and requests. Handle clergy issues as they arise to determine the best strategy to address problems promptly and to arrive at a win-win solution while keeping the Executive Director in the loop.

• Create the Sales Force infrastructure for churches and clergy members.

• Exchange best practice with all Church Affairs staff in Coptic Orphans offices through periodic meetings.

• Work closely with Donor Relations to explore and identify engagement opportunities.

• Communicate regularly with the area program managers and programs director and attend meetings as necessary to keep abreast of developments in the field in Egypt.

• Organize visits to the field in Egypt for Diaspora Clergy (non-sponsors) in an effort to inform and win-over the clergy.

• Represent the organization at other church-related NGOs and services to coordinate and encourage cooperation.

• Develop and update the Church Affairs Manual to document policies and procedures.

• Weekends and evening work will be required based on workload and deadlines.

Required Education, Experience, Knowledge, and Skills

• Bachelor's Degree in Christian studies, Communications, International Relations, Public Relations, or other relevant degree.

• A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in communications with clergy members and churches. Exposure to Coptic culture is a must.

• Excellent communication, presentation, writing and reporting skills.

• Outstanding relationship building skills and excellent customer service.

• Creativity and problem-solving aptitude with strong negotiation skills.

• Ability to work well under pressure.

• Project and budget management skills.

• Fluent in English is a must and Arabic is a plus.

Travel Requirements

• May involve international and domestic travel to meet with clergy members and attend churches events and conferences - Travel required 30 - 50%.

Our Benefits

Coptic Orphans offer a wide range of benefits including comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage, life insurance, optional Short-term and Long-term Disability coverage, access to onsite fitness, Employee assistance program and paid time off. Employees have the option to participate in a company-sponsored 403(b) retirement plan.