Program Director for Sumud: for Justice in Palestine and Israel

The Program Director for Sumud will lead the work of Sumud in engagement and awareness-raising, collaborating with ELCA colleagues on advocacy support. The role requires a minimum of 2 days in the office per week and some domestic and international travel. The ideal candidate will have 5+ years of experience in communications, theology, political science, social justice, or a related field, and recent direct experience in Israel/Palestine is strongly preferred.

What You Will Do

The Program Director will direct the Sumud initiative, create and implement a strategic plan, lead engagement across ELCA expressions, oversee Sumud collaboration with key stakeholders, administer the online presence of Sumud, and represent Sumud at major ELCA gatherings.

Why It Might Be a Fit

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of justice issues in Palestine and Israel, experience in creating and sustaining grassroots networks, and a commitment to building and maintaining knowledge of the ELCA's social teaching and policy commitments.

Requirements

• 5+ years of relevant experience in communications, theology, political science, social justice, or a related field
• Bachelor's degree preferred or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Extensive knowledge of and substantial experience in justice issues in Palestine and Israel
• Recent direct experience in Israel/Palestine strongly preferred
• Capacity for and experience with critical thinking, theological and political reflection on issues of justice
• Knowledge of techniques to create, build, promote, and sustain grassroots networks for engagement
• Informed appreciation of the contributions of the Christian tradition to public life
• Commitment to building and maintaining substantial knowledge of the social teaching and policy commitments of the ELCA
• A high standard of professional effectiveness, including organization, efficiency, creativity, and follow through
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to relate well to and communicate effectively with diverse groups of people
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including experience in strategic use of social media and online platforms

Benefits

• Competitive benefits package
• Employer-paid health premiums for employees
• Health and dependent care FSAs
• Health savings account (HSA) with an employer contribution
• Life insurance
• 403b retirement plan with a substantial employer contribution
• 17 paid holidays