Director of Diversity and Cultural Engagement Horizon Texas Conference United Methodist

Overview

The Horizon Texas Conference of The United Methodist Church seeks a Director of Diversity and Cultural Engagement to provide strategic leadership in fostering a conference-wide culture of inclusion for all people, with an emphasis on historically underrepresented and marginalized communities, including diverse racial, ethnic, gender, orientation, disability, and socio-economic identities. This role is a key contributor to the conference’s strategic priorities and works collaboratively with the Bishop, Cabinet, Conference Directors, clergy, laity, congregations, and community partners to integrate diversity, equity, inclusion, and cultural engagement into the conference’s identity, ministries, and engagement with the world.

• Develop and implement a conference-wide diversity and inclusion strategy aligned with biblical and United Methodist values.
• Lead and advance conference diversity, equity, and inclusion goals, objectives, and key results.
• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with conference leaders and stakeholders to meet goals and objectives that support diversity, equity, inclusion, and cultural engagement efforts.
• Form and deploy contextually appropriate teams using a systems-based approach.
• Develop and share practical tools, resources, and programs to support clergy, laity, congregations and Conference staff.

• Organize events that celebrate the cultural richness and diversity in our communities.
• Conduct ongoing assessments of the department’s impact to highlight progress and areas for improvement and to facilitate data-driven decision-making.
• Provide administrative leadership, including budgeting, reporting, and staff supervision for the department.
• Procure and allocate resources to ensure the success of conference and team objectives and key results regarding diversity and cultural engagement.
• Leverage the United Methodist connection to share best practices and resources.
• Develop partnerships and enter into collaborative efforts to enhance capabilities and achieve shared objectives.
• Identify challenges, implement solutions, and manage projects from planning through completion.
• Develop and implement strategies to attract and retain a diverse pool for conference staff, volunteers, and leadership.
• Foster a culture of inclusion, belonging, and professional growth.
• Develop and conduct training programs to increase awareness and understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion issues.
• Collaborate with leadership to review and improve policies and practices.
• Partner with clergy, laity, and congregations to promote inclusive practices and cultural understanding.
• Collaborate with the Board of Ordained Ministry to strengthen cultural competency among ministry candidates.
• Support congregations and clergy in navigating challenges and conflict related to diversity, equity, and inclusion, offering guidance grounded in conference values and principles.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field is required, Advanced degree preferred.
• Five or more years of proven experience leading diversity, equity, inclusion, and cultural competency initiatives, including training, program implementation, and organizational change.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including emotional intelligence, discretion, and the ability to convey complex and sensitive topics effectively.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to use data to inform decisions.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships, influence stakeholders, and navigate diverse perspectives in complex environments.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of collaborative teams.
• Deep understanding of diverse cultures, social justice issues, and cultural competency principles, including relevant laws and best practices.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Power Point etc.).
• Affiliation with and knowledge of The United Methodist Church’s mission, structure, and polity preferred.
• Ability to fluently speak and understand more than one language is preferred.

• Hybrid work environment with both remote and in-office work; residency within the conference boundaries and the ability to work on-site at the conference office are required.
• Willingness and ability to travel within the conference area.
• Generous health and welfare benefits.

Samie Harris
sharris