Executive Director - Catholic Cemeteries of New Orleans

Arch No; New Orleans (LA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

Catholic Cemeteries of New Orleans is seeking an Executive Director to lead the ministry's mission of dignified burials across thirteen cemeteries in New Orleans and one in Luling, providing pastoral care to families and guiding operations, financial management, and strategic planning in line with Catholic values.

The role emphasizes oversight of cemetery operations, customer service, stewardship, staff development, and collaboration with the Archdiocese to serve parishes and the grieving.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required in a related field.
• Experience in non-profit, religious, or cemetery management preferred.
• Minimum 10 years of cemetery-related experience; 5 years leadership experience.

Responsibilities

• Provide visionary leadership and strategic direction for the cemeteries in New Orleans and surrounding areas.
• Oversee daily cemetery operations including burial services, maintenance, and facilities management.
• Manage finances, budgeting, pricing, and revenue growth for sustainability.
• Foster strong relationships with parishioners, families, and the Archdiocese to support ministry.
• Preserve historic sites and oversee fundraising for cemetery grounds and projects.
• Supervise staff, ensure training, and promote Catholic values across operations.
• Collaborate with Archdiocesan leadership and external stakeholders.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Board.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Financial management

Catholic teaching knowledge

Commitment to Catholic faith

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration/Management/Religious Studies

Job description

Executive Director – Catholic Cemeteries of New Orleans

The Executive Director (ED) of Catholic Cemeteries of New Orleans leads the ministry's mission to
provide dignified burials for people of all faiths, aligned with the Gospel of Jesus Christ, while
offering pastoral care to families and friends of the deceased. The ED oversees operations,
financial management, and strategic planning across thirteen cemeteries in New Orleans and one in
Luling, including the historic St. Louis Cemetery #1. Responsibilities include cemetery operations,
customer service, facilities management, perpetual care property oversight, and historic
restoration, ensuring these sacred spaces are respected, maintained, and preserved in accordance
with Catholic values and traditions.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Leadership & Strategic Direction:

• Provide visionary leadership and strategic direction for the Catholic Cemeteries in New Orleans, in consultation with the Board of Directors and the Archdiocese.
• Develop and implement long-term plans to sustain the growth and sustainability of the cemeteries, including financial and operational strategies.
• Cultivate a positive working environment through staff engagement, mentorship, and professional development.

2. Operations Management:

• Oversee daily operations of Catholic Cemeteries, ensuring effective and efficient functioning of burial services, maintenance, and facility management.
• Manage cemetery properties, including grounds maintenance, plot sales, monument installation, and maintenance of buildings and infrastructure.
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations regarding cemetery operations.

3. Financial Oversight:

• Prepare and manage the annual budget, including monitoring financial performance and implementing cost-effective measures.
• Develop strategies for revenue growth, ensuring financial sustainability of the cemeteries.
• Oversee pricing structures for burial plots, memorial services, and other cemetery-related products and services.

4. Customer and Community Relations:

• Foster positive relationships with parishioners, families, and community members, providing compassionate, respectful, and professional service.
• Address customer inquiries and concerns promptly and with care, ensuring high standards of service.
• Work with the Archdiocese to strengthen the relationship between the Catholic Cemeteries and local parishes, enhancing the Church's ministry to the grieving and bereaved.

5. Stewardship & Preservation:

• Preserve and protect the historical and sacred nature of the cemeteries, ensuring proper care of historic burial sites, monuments, and sacred spaces.
• Promote and implement environmental sustainability practices in cemetery management and operations.
• Oversee fundraising efforts and initiatives for the preservation of cemetery grounds and special projects.

6. Staff Management:

• Supervise, hire, and evaluate staff, ensuring the professional development of team members.
• Foster an atmosphere of respect, teamwork, and adherence to Catholic values.
• Ensure that all employees receive necessary training in compliance with health, safety, and regulatory requirements.

7. Collaborative Responsibilities:

• Work closely with the Archdiocesan leadership, including the Finance and Operations teams, to align the work of Catholic Cemeteries with the overall mission of the Archdiocese.
• Represent Catholic Cemeteries in external engagements, including meetings with public authorities, contractors, and other relevant stakeholders.

8. Other Duties:

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Board of Directors or designated authority.

Qualifications:

Education:

• A Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Management, Religious Studies, or a related field.

Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of Catholic Cemeteries experience preferred. Minimum of 5 years of leadership experience, preferably in a non-profit, religious, or cemetery management setting. Experience in managing teams, overseeing financials, and dealing with the public is required.

Skills and Abilities:

• Strong leadership, management, and organizational skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with a diverse group of people, including clergy, staff, and the community.
• Ability to manage complex financial and operational systems and strategies.
• Knowledge of Catholic teachings and traditions, particularly as they relate to death, burial, and the care of cemeteries.
• A deep commitment to the Catholic faith and its practices, as well as an understanding of and respect for the sacred nature of the cemetery ministry.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work in an office environment, as well as oversee activities at cemetery grounds and facilities.
• Occasional travel and ability to work outdoors for site visits, inspections, or meetings.

Pay: Catholic Cemeteries of New Orleans offers a salary and benefits commiserate with experience and qualifications.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance
• Vacation Time Off
• Sick Time Off
• Paid Holidays

Catholic Cemeteries of New Orleans is an Equal Opportunity Employer