Director of Operations

The Basilica of Saint Mary's of the Immaculate Conception, in Norfolk Virginia is seeking a Director of Operations.

The Director of Operations supports the administrative operations of the Basilica, which includes management of all buildings and properties (HVAC, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and safety/energy systems), including the rectory (rector’s residence); management and organization of the office; payroll and personnel record maintenance; communications (to include the bulletin, e-newsletter, etc.); and other areas assigned by the Rector. The Director supervises the maintenance and custodial staff, as well as the communications volunteer. The Director is responsible for ensuring the Basilica implements applicable diocesan HR, Financial, and facilities policies and standards.

This position is regular, full-time (35 hours a week). The Director is to maintain a presence in the office, as well as a frequent—though not weekly—presence at weekend liturgies. The Director’s work schedule and weekly hours may be reviewed from time to time.

The ideal candidate holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field; displays a familiarity and experience with computers, cloud-based systems, and social media platforms, and too, a willingness to be trained and learn advanced software programs. Designation as a Facilities Manager Professional (FMP) or Certified Facility Manager (CFM) helpful. The candidate should possess leadership abilities in planning, administration, volunteer management; demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills; exhibit strong organizational skills, including time management, delegation, planning, and budgeting; have an ability to work independently and organize and arrange priorities, completing tasks in a timely manner. The ideal candidate displays tolerance and sensitivity, and too, the ability to maintain confidentiality in all matters. If not a practicing Roman Catholic, the candidate should be supportive of the mission of the Catholic Church.

The position is available beginning September 1, 2026.

To apply, please ssubmit a cover letter, resume, and completed Diocesan Application.

If you have questions or wish to receive the full job description, please email the Rector of the Basilica, Fr. Sean Prince, at [email protected].

About the Basilica

The Basilica of Saint Mary’s of the Immaculate Conception is located in Norfolk, Virginia. Founded in 1791, the Basilica is the oldest parish community in the Diocese of Richmond and one of the most storied Catholic communities in the United States. On December 8, 1991, the 200th Anniversary of the parish, Saint Pope John Paul II bestowed upon Saint Mary’s the designation of Minor Basilica, and the parish holds a singular distinction in the American Catholic Church: the first Basilica in the Commonwealth of Virginia and the only African American Basilica in the United States—a living testament to the faith and perseverance of generations of Black Catholics who have called this community home. The Basilica welcomes all, and our community includes a diverse demographic of blacks, whites, Filipinos, Hispanics, Africans, and members of our military. For nearly 235 years, the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Immaculate Conception has served as the Mother Church for Tidewater Virginia. Central to the life of the Basilica is the Soup Kitchen and Food Pantry ministries; for decades, these ministries provide support and assistance for those in need in the community. Additional information on the Basilica is available by visiting our website at www.bsmic.org.