UMR accepting CEO applications Staff Reports, Jul 31, 2009
UMR PHOTO BY MARY JACOBS
UMR board members meet with former CEO Sarah Wilke for the last time.
Staff reports
DALLAS, Texas—The board of directors for UMR Communications is seeking a dynamic and visionary leader to take the role of the organization’s new chief executive officer. Applications will be accepted through Sept. 1.
Board members said farewell July 16 to Sarah E. Wilke, UMR’s CEO since May 2004. Ms. Wilke is the new world publisher and editor for Upper Room Ministries in Nashville, Tenn.
John Greenberger, UMR’s chief financial officer since 2006, is serving as interim CEO.
UMR Communications is the parent company of the award-winning United Methodist Reporter. The weekly newspaper has been publishing since 1847, when it began as the Texas Methodist.
UMR’s mission is to publish quality religion news and provide print and digital resources for communication and education.
The national, independent communications ministry provides weekly print and electronic media—the Reporter is its flagship product—as well as custom design, variable data printing, marketing and targeted mailing services.
Board members say the organization’s next CEO will provide visionary leadership, operational guidance and enhanced denominational relationships for UMR Communications. Candidates must have a broad understanding of and appreciation for the United Methodist Church and its structure at all levels.
Candidates must have proven experience in executive leadership and demonstrated skills in administration and publishing business fundamentals. An advanced degree in business or the equivalent in experience as well as organizational leadership experience and a vision for market share is required.
The CEO must be able to assess and respond to economic variables to maintain and enhance the strength of the ministry. Knowledge of both print and electronic media is advantageous.
The CEO must also be able to effectively communicate UMR Communications’ mission and strategy to relevant stakeholders, and engage leaders throughout the denomination to maintain a commitment to shared ministry.
UMR Communications is committed to relating fairly to all segments of the diverse constituency of the church while remaining independent of control by any particular group.
UMR shares a common commitment to Christian ministry with the United Methodist Church and operates in accordance with the denomination’s Social Principles.
A complete job description is available by clicking on “CEO Search” at www.umportal.org.
To apply, e-mail a resume and a statement of interest to ceosearch@umr.org or send to UMR Communications, Attn: Search Committee, 1221 Profit Drive, Dallas, Texas 75247.
UMR PHOTO BY MARY JACOBS
The national, independent communications ministry provides weekly print and electronic media—the Reporter is its flagship product—as well as custom design, variable data printing, marketing and targeted mailing services. 
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