Shared Merger Coordinator

Cayuga‑Syracuse Presbytery & Susquehanna Valley Presbytery (Upstate and Catskill Region of New York State)
Contract Position – One Year (with possibility of extension)

Purpose of the Position

The Shared Merger Coordinator supports two neighboring Presbyteries as they develop and implement a plan for formal merger. This role focuses on the detailed, practical, relational, and communication work required to bring Cayuga‑Syracuse and Susquehanna Valley Presbyteries together in a way that strengthens their shared ministry. The Coordinator will help guide the formation of one new presbytery -- honoring each presbytery’s history while cultivating a new, shared identity and a faithful witness to God’s reign in this region.

Accountability

The Merger Coordinator is accountable to the Lead Presbyter for staff oversight. They will also work closely with both presbyteries’ governing bodies in collaboration with the Focus and Coordination Team and the HR/Personnel Committee. A monthly summary of work will be submitted to the Focus and Coordination Team.

Key Responsibilities

Overall Coordination

  • Develop and manage a comprehensive merger schedule that guides expectations, timelines, and committee work.

  • Support Presbyteries,and leadership as they move toward a unified structure and shared mission.

  • Work collaboratively with the Lead Presbyter, Assistant to the Lead Presbyter, Synod leadership, and Presbytery committees.

Manage the Four Dimensions of the Merger

1. Relational Merger

  • Support the Focus and Coordination Team in creating opportunities for leaders and committees, to build deeper connections.

  • Encourage shared identity formation and collaborative ministry.

2. Fiscal Merger

  • Work with treasurers and accounting staff to assess both Presbyteries’ financial status.

  • Facilitate the merging of financial records, policies, and procedures.

  • Ensure clarity, transparency, and accuracy throughout the process.

3. Ecclesiastical Merger

  • Collaborate with the Lead Presbyter and Stated Clerks.

  • Coordinate with the Synod and the PC(USA) General Assembly Administrative Commission on Mid Councils.

  • Support committees in meeting target approval dates:

  • Initial approval: 2027 Synod Assembly

  • Final approval: Quarterly meeting of the Administrative Commission on Mid Councils by end of 2027

4. Legal Merger

  • Work with Presbytery attorneys to merge the two legal corporations in accordance with New York State law.

  • Ensure compliance with all required filings, documentation, and legal processes.

Skills & Qualifications

The successful candidate will:

  • Be a self‑starter who works well with others and provides structure, clarity, and direction during transition.

  • Collaborate effectively with the Lead Presbyter, Stated Clerks, Moderators, Councils, and Committees of both Presbyteries.

  • Bring a pastoral approach to problem‑solving, with sensitivity to diverse theological perspectives and cultural backgrounds.

  • Manage multiple tasks simultaneously and maintain focus across several merger components.

  • Be familiar with Presbyterian polity, including the Book of Order and presbytery governing documents.

  • Understand financial and legal processes, working comfortably with treasurers, accountants, and attorneys.

  • Maintain awareness of timelines and keep the merger process moving forward.

Terms & Compensation

  • This is a contract position for a one‑year term, with the possibility of extension following a comprehensive review.

  • Compensation is commensurate with experience.

  • Travel and professional allowances will be provided.

Apply To:

Send resume and cover letter to asst.presbyter@gmail.com