Head of Diakonia Department, Member of the Executive Board (80%)

The Diakonia Department of Caritas Zurich is an important player in the diaconal sector of the canton of Zurich. With its specialist offices and youngCaritas Zurich, it contributes to the further development of social work in parishes, promotes civil society engagement, and raises awareness of poverty and social justice. Its offers and projects operate in the civil society context and are aimed at church stakeholders as well as diverse cooperation partners. In addition, the department takes on tasks within the Caritas network as well as in external collaboration and communication with church stakeholders.

You are responsible for leading the Diakonia Department and the strategic development of its offerings. For this, you analyze societal and church needs and develop new diaconal projects. As a member of the executive board, you shape the overall organization together with your executive colleagues. In addition, you are responsible for the following tasks:

• Operational involvement in projects, further training, as well as in consulting and development processes
• Advising and supporting parishes and other church stakeholders on questions of diakonia and social engagement
• Communication and mediation of diaconal projects and services in church networks and partner organizations
• Representation of Caritas Zurich in church committees, in the diaconal network of the canton of Zurich, and in the Caritas network
• Responsibility for budget, resource planning, and achievement of department goals
• Promotion of cross-team collaboration and further development of employees

You bring your strong networking skills and your experience in working with church institutions with commitment to daily work. In addition to your pronounced communication, presentation, and performance skills, you bring the following:

• Several years of experience in pastoral or diaconal work
• Completed theological studies or equivalent qualification
• Good knowledge of the church environment in the canton of Zurich
• Leadership experience, ideally in the church or non-profit sector
• Competencies in adult education and educational work
• Confident handling of budget and financial responsibility
• Organizational skills, strategic thinking, and enthusiasm for innovation
• High social and counseling competence, combined with humor, empathy, and resilience