Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, is seeking an Assistant Director

Salary:

Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.

About SMU:

As a private, comprehensive university enriched by its United Methodist heritage and its partnership with the Dallas Metroplex, Southern Methodist University seeks to enhance the intellectual, cultural, technical, ethical, and social development of a diverse study body. SMU’s more than 12,000 diverse, high-achieving students come from all 50 states and 90 countries to take advantage of the University’s small classes, hands-on research opportunities, leadership development, community service, international study, and innovative programs. The University offers a strong foundation in the humanities and sciences and undergraduate, graduate and professional degree programs through eight schools.

Now in its second century of achievement, SMU is increasingly recognized for the ways it supports students, faculty and alumni as they become ethical leaders in their professions and communities. On the most beautiful college campus in the country, SMU Mustangs are energized by unbridled opportunities – from teaching, learning and research to creativity, performance and athletic endeavor.

The Perkins Mission:

The mission of Perkins School of Theology is to equip persons for faithful leadership and Christian ministry in a changing church and society; to educate those seeking a deeper understanding of the Christian faith; and to strengthen the church, academy, and world through service, scholarship, and advocacy.

About the Position:

The position is one of high visibility in the school, local communities, the South-Central Jurisdiction, and new territories as they unfold. This position is responsible for attracting and guiding individuals from inquiry to application who are discerning a call to vocational or lay ministry and are determined to be a fit for the Perkins community. In the process of the recruitment phases, relationships with influencers and constituents will be established and strengthened to maintain current partnerships and forge new ones.

Essential Functions:

Represent Perkins School of Theology enthusiastically with accurate information regarding degree programs (including Houston-Galveston Hybrid Extension program), Perkins community life, faculty profiles, Perkins mission & vision & admission requirements during internal, external, & virtual events (may include graduate fairs, theological events, annual conferences, Zoom meetings).

Develop & execute an annual strategic constituency recruitment plan (fall, spring, summer), prescribed by the Office of Enrollment Management Plan, that includes geographical locations (universities where pipelines have occurred), agency partners, alumni sources, campus ministers, clergy, conference leaders, and religious faculty to build relationships & create future partnerships.

Create and sustain weekly follow-up (phone calls, email communications) with assigned prospective students utilizing enrollment management software to track communications and for reporting.

Support the Office of Enrollment Management team in all aspects of recruitment and admission when needed including Inside Perkins, walk-ins, Orientation, Phonothons, marketing input and feedback, and team discussions.

Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree is required; Master’s degree is preferred. Prefer field of study in Theology.

Three years work professional work experience is required. Prior experience recruiting students in a college/university setting, or experience in admissions, or related area is preferred.

Experience planning events is preferred. Hospitality/hosting events is required.

Experience making presentations/public speaking is preferred.

Connection to a faith community and/or appreciation for theological education is preferred. Experience in campus ministry or staff position in a church is preferred.

Microsoft Office skills (Word and Excel) is required. Prefer experience with Zoom.

Knowledge of Slate, HubSpot, or other Customer Relations Management (CRM) software is preferred.

This position requires evening and weekend work for hosting recruitment events.

Rigorous travel, in and out of state, is required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Candidate must have excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community. Commitment to increasing diversity in theological education is essential.

Must have excellent written and oral communication skills in order to clearly and effectively communicate with individuals as well as groups. Must have good listening skills, as well as comfortable assisting prospective students discern calls to vocational and lay ministries.

Candidate must possess strong organizational skills including effective planning, time management and project management skills. Must be attentive to details.

Candidate must have strong problem solving skills and analytical skills.

Must be able to work independently as well as collaboratively with team members.

Physical/Environmental Demands:

This position must be able to:

• Bend

• Reach above shoulders

• Squat

• Climb

• Handle objects (dexterity)

• Carry/lift over 25-50 lbs.

• Kneel

• Stand

• Walk for long distances

• Push/Pull

Deadline to Apply:

This position is open until filled.

To Apply:

Please visit our website https://www.smu.edu/BusinessFinance/HR/WorkingatSMU

to access the online application. See Working at SMU. Click on Staff Career Opportunities and apply to:

Assistant Director (Perkins School of Theology, Ministry Discernment/Recruitment) PER00000044

SMU will not discriminate in any program or activity on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression. The Executive Director for Access and Equity/Title IX Coordinator is designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies and may be reached at the Perkins Administration Building, Room 204, 6425 Boaz Lane, Dallas, TX 75205, 214-768-3601, accessequity@smu.edu.

Benefits:

SMU offers staff a broad, competitive array of health and related benefits. In addition to traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, SMU offers a wide range of wellness programs to help attract, support, and retain our employees whose work continues to make SMU an outstanding education and research institution.

SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family throughout your working years at SMU and, if you meet SMU's retirement eligibility criteria, during your retirement years after you leave SMU.

The value of learning at SMU isn't just about preparing our students for the future. Employees have access to a wide variety of professional and personal development opportunities, including tuition benefits.

This position is open until filled; however, resumes are immediately under review upon application. Thank you.