Program Director for Sumud: for Justice in Palestine and Israel

About the role

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) is seeking a program director to lead the Sumud: for justice in Palestine and Israel initiative. This position is full-time, regular, exempt, and based in Chicago, with a requirement to be in the office a minimum of 2 days per week and more as needed.

Responsibilities

• Directs the Sumud initiative and creates a strategic plan grounded in accompaniment of Palestinian communities.
• Fosters and supports networks of grass-roots engagement, including the Sumud Ambassador network.
• Collaborates with relevant ELCA colleagues on advocacy support, including MENA strategy implementation.
• Administers the online presence of Sumud, ensuring consistent communication with ELCA audiences.
• Represents Sumud at major ELCA gatherings and events, and develops educational resources.
• Plans and participates in strategic accompaniment visits to the ELCJHL and Israel/Palestine.

Requirements

• 5+ years of relevant experience in communications, theology, political science, social justice, or a related field.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred, Master’s degree preferred.
• Substantial experience in justice issues in Palestine and Israel, including direct experience on the ground.
• Knowledge of techniques to create, build, and sustain grassroots networks.
• A high standard of professional effectiveness, including organizational skills, time management, and the ability to prioritize tasks.
• Strong interpersonal skills and excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• Experience using Microsoft Office applications preferred.

Qualifications

• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and anti-racism.
• Informed appreciation of the contributions of the Christian tradition to public life.
• High standard of professional effectiveness.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple priorities.
• Initiative, ownership, and the ability to lead in a demanding environment.

Benefits

• Competitive benefits package including employer-paid health premiums, health and dependent care FSA’s, a health savings account (HSA) with an employer contribution, life insurance, and a substantial employer contribution to 403b retirement plan.
• Generous paid time-off policy including 17 paid holidays.

Schedule

This position requires considerable overnight, domestic, and international travel by plane or car. A valid driver's license is preferred. A U.S. passport is required.

Pay

Salary commensurate with qualifications and relevant experience.