Administrative Experience

At the Unitarian Universalist Church of Indianapolis (2019-2023), I have four years experience supervising a 3/4 time Congregational Administrator, 1/4 time Administrative Assistant, 1/4 time Outreach and Care Coordinator, and 1/4 time Music Director.

My management style is collaborative. I am privileged to work with talented, committed, passionate people, and my job is to create an environment in which everyone can thrive in their work and serve the congregation to the best of their ability. I meet regularly with the staff, one-on-one and as a team, to strategize, problem-solve, and check-in on progress. Clear expectations, regular communication, and direct feedback is key.

I bring substantial professional experience from my previous career into my role as a minister. In 18 years working for the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis in various roles and departments (cash management, disaster recovery, marketing, business development, lending desk) I had the opportunity to learn many skills that are relevant to the life of a congregation and to the success of an institution, including:

  • Supervise three full-time employees, follow HR policies in supervision

  • Read and understand budgets and financial statements, understand investments and investment policies

  • Manage documents, create and follow policies and procedures

  • Manage customer databases and track member information

  • Create and manage member communications (newsletters, etc.)

  • Build and maintain long-term relationships with members

  • Generate monthly reports of all kinds for Boards and decision makers

  • Perform historical analysis, opportunity analysis, and trends forecasting

  • Understand the risks that organizations are exposed to and plan for them

  • Analyze systems and workflows, follow change management procedures

  • Plan and carry out large member events (and make it fun!)

  • Work with auditors, lawyers, accountants, and government agencies

Other Training:

Stepping up to Supervision, Susan Beaumont Institute, 2022

Mediation Training (four day course), Indiana Purdue University Indianapolis, Office of Equal Opportunity, 2018

Seminary Courses at Christian Theological Seminary (2017-2020)

  • Money, Marketing, and Ministry Staff

  • Gateway to Entrepreneurial Leadership

  • Pastor: Person, Practice, and Possibility (church leadership class)

  • Ethics

As one of the key leaders of the congregation, the minister helps sets the tone and leads by example. The minister and staff assist the congregation in doing the work of the church creatively, effectively, and joyfully. My leadership style with staff is collaborative and appreciative.

Rev. Jamie and Linda Parr, the UUI music director, at General Assembly.