Chancellor - Archdiocese of Detroit

Job Description

Position Summary
The Chancellor serves as a principal advisor and administrator within the Curia of the Archdiocese, ensuring effective governance, canonical compliance, and mission alignment. The Chancellor preserves the diocesan records, serves as a notary for certain acts of the Archbishop and Archdiocese, and as secretary to handle certain correspondence for the Archbishop, the Vicars General/Episcopal Vicars, and directors within the Curia.
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Key Responsibilities
Canonical Counsel & Governance
• Advise the Archbishop, the local Ordinaries, and Curia directors on matters of canon law, including the drafting of decrees, rescripts, precepts, and other official documents.
• Prepare and review correspondence of canonical importance, including with other dioceses, the Nunciature, and the Apostolic See.
• Maintain and update the collection of particular law for the Archdiocese.
• Oversee the operations of the Archdiocesan Archives and Archivist, ensuring proper care of active and historical records (digital and physical).
• Oversee the work of the Marriage Dispensation Office.
• Oversee the work of any Vice-Chancellors in the various competencies to which they have been assigned.

Administrative Leadership
• Monitor compliance with church and civil law.
• Coordinate and record the activities of the College of Consultors, Archdiocesan Finance Council, Presbyteral Council, and Archdiocesan Pastoral Council.
• Liaison with Associations of Christ's Faithful, advising on governance and interaction with the Curia
Records & Archives Management
• Safeguard confidentiality and data protection standards.
• Manage and retain the acts of the Diocesan Curia as required by law.
Communications & Special Projects
• Prepare internal and external correspondence as requested by the Archbishop or Curia.
• Coordinate the Quinquennial Report and other major writing projects in collaboration with the Communications Department.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Archbishop or Moderator of the Curia.
Required Skills & Competencies
• Advance knowledge of canon law and Church governance
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
• High degree of confidentiality, integrity, and ethical judgment
• Strong organizational and leadership abilities
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Collaborative, relationship-building orientation
• Cultural competence and sensitivity to diversity
• Digital literacy, including records management and secure communication
Education & Experience
• Masters Degree required; graduate degree in Canon Law (JCL or JCD) preferred; then Master's in Theology, Church Administration, Civil Law may be considered
• 5-10 years of progressively responsible experience in Church administration, canon law, or related roles
• Experience supervising staff and managing complex projects
• Prior work in a diocesan or parish setting preferred
• Legal training or licensure is a plus
Core Values & Additional Requirements
• Practicing Catholic in good standing, with demonstrated commitment to the Church's teachings and mission
• Affinity for mission-driven, not-for-profit organizations
• Ability to travel locally within the Archdiocese as needed
• Commitment to ongoing professional development in canon law and Church leadership
• Must maintain strict confidentiality regarding all Archdiocesan information, especially sensitive or protected data
Equal Opportunity Statement
The Archdiocese of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer and does not illegally discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, height, weight, genetic information, or marital or other legally protected status. We are committed to achieving excellence through cultural diversity and encourage applications from women, persons of color, veterans, and persons with disabilities.

About the Employer

+CORE PURPOSE
To give glory to God and to help every soul within our reach attain eternal life through Jesus Christ.

MISSION
Powered by prayer and led by the Holy Spirit, we will go forth together with apostolic boldness to unleash the Gospel. We will use our unique gifts to accompany others on their journey to encounter Jesus, grow as joyful missionary disciples, and give witness to Him in the world.

VISION
The archdiocese will be a community of joyful missionary disciples and of saints united in Jesus. Southeast Michigan will be a place that manifests the presence of God.