Q&A: Ruth Harbor’s Executive Director Transition Plan

NOTE: If you have not read the announcement concerning the Executive Director transition plan, it is available here.

Why is Mark retiring?

Actually, he’s not. While retiring from the role of Executive Director, Mark looks forward to shifting his time and energy into his own “sweet spot” on behalf of RHM. As part-time Development Director, he will be establishing and growing relationships on behalf of the young women we serve. This is a growing need that he cannot address with the current responsibilities of Executive Director. This arrangement also provides some additional time Mark has earmarked for his wife, Deb, 5 grandchildren, and mentoring younger leaders, locally and nationally.

How was Chris chosen as Executive Director Designate?

God directed RHM and Chris to this new relationship. Chris and Mark were among 5 individuals who were appointed by the RHM board to serve on a search committee for a new Executive Director. As the search process began to gather momentum and the job description reviewed and finalized, the search committee asked Chris to consider applying. After prayer and personal discernment, Chris resigned from the search committee and formally applied. After due process of application, resumes, and interviewing, Chris was extended an offer by the board. A key part of Chris’ discernment process was the reality that when God has moved Chris in his ministry career, it has been at God’s initiation; Chris did not initially pursue the position.

What is the purpose of the overlap in Mark and Chris’s employment?

To ensure continuity and confidence. Chris has leadership experience and a great working knowledge of RHM from his seat on the board. However, we wish him to have the same level of experience and confidence in the day-to-day operations of the ministry (staffing, programming, admissions, home administration, office administration, state licensing and compliance, special events, partnership relations, physical plant, and finances to name several). Introducing Chris to other leaders (locally and nationally) for future collaborating will also be important. Ultimately, this will provide strong continuity for our staff and for the residents we are serving.

What kind of experience will Chris bring with him to this role?

Chris has served much of his career at two churches in Central Iowa: Grace Church in Des Moines from 1991-2010, and First Family Church in Ankeny, from 2010-2019. Chris joined the Baptist Convention of Iowa in August 2019 as Associate Executive Director. In his ministry, Chris describes himself as a Monday-Saturday pastor, someone who’s primary responsibilities did not involve preaching or leading Sunday services. His area of expertise is in communications and administration primarily, and adult education secondarily. In these roles, Chris brings a wealth of experience in strategic planning, financial management, communications and marketing, and human resources. Chris describes his leadership style as a shepherd-leader.

How will things change at RHM?

Early in the search process, the board determined the culture of Ruth Harbor is both healthy and affirming and understood the importance of bringing in a leader who would embrace this culture rather than seek to change it. Chris was chosen as the future Executive Director because of his desire to maintain and execute the mission and vision of RHM, including a culture of grace, community, and excellence. All that Ruth Harbor stands for today will be unchanged. In fact, it will be honored and strengthened through this move. For example, in 2021, Chris led a committee to refine and hone RHM’s purpose, mission, vision, and core values.

Will this lead to any changes in the programs of RHM?

Ministries like Ruth Harbor are living organisms that reflect the body of Christ. Just as we grow and mature as human beings, so ministries grow and mature as the Holy Spirit continues to mold and shape an organization to accomplish His mission. While no program changes are on the horizon, we are sensitive to where the Holy Spirit is leading us as a board, staff, and community. Our mission does not change, but our strategies are often adapted to better serve the community.

To whom do I direct any questions or concerns I may have about this transition?

Questions and dialog are welcomed. You may contact Mark, Chris or any member of our Board of Directors (515-979-4511).

What part do I have to play in this transition?

The RHM leadership team, staff, and prayer team have been praying for this transition for some time. We now ask that you join us in:

• Celebrating God’s provision and answer to prayer.

• Praying (see below).

• Encouraging Chris and Mark with a note of support or commitment to pray.

Is the Executive Director role the extent of succession planning by the board?

No. In the last two years the board has also added 5 members to maintain and prepare for greater continuity through the transition of the Executive Director role as well as the coming retirement of two long-term board members after serving the maximum allowed of 15 years.