Executive Director of Worship, Music, and Creative Arts

Please Note: Interested applicants must complete the application process via this link: https://forms.gle/rD4o8Y5kFJ5qJSmz9.

Summary

Mount Olive is seeking an Executive Director who will play a pivotal role in fostering a vibrant worship experience through music and creative arts (dance, mime, etc.). This individual will be responsible for developing diverse musical programming that enhances the congregation's spiritual development and growth. The position involves extensive collaboration with the pastoral staff, musicians, choir members, and volunteers to create a welcoming and inspiring worship atmosphere. This job announcement is a general guideline for the Executive Director of Worship, Music, and Creative Arts role. Specific duties and responsibilities may be added and adjusted based on God's move in the Church's life.

Worship Philosophy

As a historic African American Baptist church in Centreville, VA, Mount Olive Baptist Church (MOBC) has a unique worship style essential to each service, especially Sunday services. Our soul-stirring hymns and contemporary gospel selections, syncopated with all musical instrumentation and creative arts, usher in the Spirit of God, emphasizing the delivered Word of God through the Senior Pastor's sermons and service to the congregation and community.

Primary Responsibilities/Essential Functions

Worship Planning and Leadership

The Executive Director will collaborate with the Senior Pastor and/or designated clergy administrator to plan and coordinate worship services, ensuring that music selections align with the theme and message and according to the Senior Pastor’s vision. 

Music

• Plan and/or lead congregational singing during Sunday worship services, liturgical and church celebrations (Advent, Christmas, Holy Week, Easter, Pentecost, Homecoming, Church and Pastor Anniversaries, and Special Day Recognitions) and life event services (funerals and weddings), ensuring that the music selections align with the theme and message.
• Assign and oversee weekly musician and choir rehearsals.
• Assure and introduce new hymns/songs and liturgical elements for each service, integrating past and present music genres.
• Recruit and mentor choir directors, members, instrumentalists, and lead vocalists of all ages.
• Recruit, train, and mentor music volunteers and worship team members of all ages.

Creative Arts

• Develop and integrate creative arts into worship services, including drama, dance, mime, and visual arts.
• Collaborate with artists and volunteers to create and execute creative worship experiences.
• Encourage artistic expression as a means of enhancing spiritual growth and worship.

Community Engagement

• Participate in community events that promote the church’s mission and music ministry.
• Foster relationships with local musicians and music organizations to enhance the church’s music offerings.

Ministry Administration

• Develop a comprehensive music program that includes traditional, contemporary, and multicultural genres.
• Provide spiritual guidance and support to choir members and musicians, fostering their growth in faith and musical skills.
• Work closely with other ministry leaders to support church-wide initiatives and events.
• Communicate effectively with the congregation about the music ministry opportunities, including auditions, rehearsals, and performances.
• Oversee the use of musical instruments and equipment within the church and schedule maintenance for repair and tuning.
• Manage the music budget, including purchasing music and supplies, hiring musicians, and coordinating special events.
• Maintains and organizes a digital library of music resources, ensuring accessibility for musicians and volunteers.
• Collaborate with the MOBC audiovisual technical team to ensure consistent, professional sound quality for effective ministry.
• Coordinate with the MOBC audiovisual technical team to feature the ministry through various media on the MOBC website and social media platforms.

Minimum Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in music theory, creative arts, or a related field from an accredited college, university, or seminary.
• Commitment to the mission and vision of the church, with a personal faith that reflects the teaching of Christ.
• Professional instrumentalist and vocalist well-versed in musical genres related to the African American worship experience.
• Minimum of five years of progressively responsible leadership experience and relevant church music ministry experience.
• Experience with professional studio recording.
• A deep understanding of music theory, vocal and instrumental performance, and various musical styles.
• Proficiency in playing at least one musical instrument (piano preferred – not limited to) and familiarity with music technology and software.
• Demonstrated ability to teach vocals and plan or conduct workshops for all ages.
• Experience collaborating closely with clergy, ministries, and church leaders.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively and inspire others.
• A deep commitment to continuous spiritual growth, worship, and the congregation's mission and values.
• Demonstrated skills in Microsoft applications, Google Docs, and general office principles.
• Ensure the appropriate care of instruments, using general operational knowledge of microphones, sound, and AV equipment.

Professional Development

The incumbent will be committed to perpetual spiritual, personal, and professional development. This includes participating in workshops, conferences, and other continuing education opportunities, demonstrating our commitment to your growth and success.

Application Process

Interested applicants must complete the application process via this link: https://forms.gle/rD4o8Y5kFJ5qJSmz9. Please note that hard-copy applications are not accepted. Incomplete applications and other means outside this process will not be considered. Direct any questions to: [email protected]. You will receive a response within 24 hours. 

Direct any questions to: [email protected].