The Executive Director provides visionary leadership for the Theological Integration Center (ThInC), advancing GCU's commitment to integrating the Christian worldview throughout the academic enterprise. Reporting to the Dean of the College of Theology, the Executive Director develops the Center as a permanent institutional hub that connects people, resources, partnerships, and initiatives supporting GCU's Christ-centered mission.

The Executive Director is responsible for strategic planning, fundraising, organizational leadership, external partnerships, engagement with the university’s ten colleges and select departments, program development, resource creation, and operational oversight. The Director serves as the primary catalyst for expanding and sustaining ThInC initiatives while cultivating long-term financial support through the Founders Endowment Fund.

This position will provide capacity and oversight for the duration of the ThInC grant to Grand Canyon University. The grant commitment dates are September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2029.

Primary Responsibilities /Accountabilities/ Essential Functions:

• Provide executive leadership for the development and long-term growth of ThInC.
• Develop and implement the Center's strategic vision, priorities, and annual operating plan, aligning Center initiatives with GCU's mission, strategic priorities, and One Foundation.
• Foster interdisciplinary collaboration among colleges, academic departments, Student Affairs, Athletics, and university leadership, identifying opportunities to strengthen Christian worldview integration across the university.
• Coordination and collaboration with Faculty Training & Development, Curriculum. Design & Development, Christian worldview instructors, and the Canyon Center for Character Education.
• Build ThInC into a permanent institutional resource supporting faith integration throughout the university.
• Serve as an ex officio member of the One Foundation Committee.
• Collaborate with university leaders to coordinate mission-related initiatives.
• Develop institutional policies, operational procedures, and assessment processes for the Center.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy for the Founders Endowment Fund with a goal of raising $5M by the end of the grant term.
• Cultivate relationships with major donors, foundations, churches, business leaders, and Christian organizations, building strategic partnerships that advance the mission and sustainability of ThInC.
• Work collaboratively with university advancement personnel in donor cultivation and stewardship.
• Establish and chair the ThInC Advisory Board.
• Design, implement, and oversee the GCU Fellows Program.
• Recruit influential Christian leaders as Fellows representing diverse professions and disciplines; coordinate Fellows selection, mentoring, programming, and assessment.
• Coordinate quarterly board meetings and annual strategic planning, engaging board members in fundraising, advocacy, partnership development, and institutional counsel.
• Facilitate interdisciplinary scholarship and collaborative projects that strengthen faith integration; present and/or publish research related to the theological interdisciplinary efforts of GCU.
• Oversee development of books, curricula, publications, training materials, digital resources, multimedia content, and online learning tools.
• Manage the Center's operating budget and financial resources.
• Supervise Center personnel and consultants as assigned.
• Develop annual work plans and project timelines.
• Monitor key performance indicators and program effectiveness.
• Prepare annual reports documenting activities, outcomes, deliverables, fundraising progress, and financial expenditures.
• Ensure compliance with grant requirements and donor expectations.
• Coordination of One Foundation Survey projects and data dissemination.
• Ideate ways to generate revenue for ThInC Endowment by providing services/education to the community, theological content and experiences.
• Other duties as assigned.

Experience/ Education

• PhD or DMin from an accredited institution in biblical studies, theology or Christian history, practical theology, or ministry is required.
• 10 years combined teaching experience at the college level and pastoral experience.
• Demonstrated experience in developing strong relational and supportive networks within faith-based organizations.
• Administrative or relevant managerial experience is preferred.
• Must possess exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must be able to affirm and teach in accordance with the university’s Doctrinal Statement, Ethical Positions Statement and the College of Theology Covenant.
• Must successfully pass background checks.