Assistant General Secretary for Ecumenical Relations

About the role

The Assistant General Secretary for Ecumenical Relations (AGS) supports the LWF’s ecumenical commitment by fostering theological dialogue and cooperation with Christian world communions and ecumenical bodies. Reporting directly to the General Secretary, the AGS works from Geneva and travels extensively to represent the LWF internationally.

Key responsibilities

• Identify thematic areas for theological dialogue and represent the LWF in bilateral and multilateral ecumenical platforms.
• Support the ecumenical dimensions of programmes delivered by the LWF Communion Office.
• Develop capacity among member churches for local ecumenical dialogue and cooperation.
• Collaborate with internal colleagues and external partners, including the World Council of Churches and the Global Christian Forum.
• Lead multicultural and multi‑professional teams of up to 20 members to achieve common goals.

Required profile

• PhD or equivalent in Theology, preferably with a focus on ecumenical studies or ecclesiology.
• Excellent written and spoken English.
• Member of an LWF member church with required endorsement.
• Minimum five years of experience in ecumenical dialogue or related studies.
• In‑depth knowledge of LWF bilateral dialogues, WCC processes, and the Global Christian Forum.
• Demonstrated diplomatic skills, collaborative style, and ability to manage diverse teams.
• Ordination in an LWF member church and knowledge of German, French or Spanish are assets.

Required skills

• Analytical thinking (advanced)
• Initiative (resource level)
• Leadership (resource level)
• Strategic intelligence (advanced)
• People management (advanced)

What we offer

• Initial five‑year contract, renewable once.
• Opportunity to shape global ecumenical relationships.
• Extensive travel (more than 20 days per year) and engagement with worldwide Christian communities.