Executive Pastors: What They Do, Why They Matter, and How to Hire the Right One
If you lead a church that has grown beyond 300 people and don’t have an Executive Pastor (XP), chances are you’re wearing too many hats. Or your Lead Pastor is. Either way, it leads to leadership exhaustion, missed opportunities, and a blurry vision that never quite gets off the ground.
The XP role can feel mysterious. Are they the boss of the staff? The business expert? The fixer? The answer is yes... and no.
A great XP wears two hats:
The Executive hat: overseeing operations, systems, HR, and budgets. This includes everything from the church management software to the bathroom supplies. When things run smoothly, no one notices. When they don't, everyone does.
The Pastor hat: shepherding staff, aligning ministries, and championing culture. An XP isn't just a strategic brain—they're a cultural thermostat. They shape how ministry feels for those leading it.
The XP is the bridge between vision and execution. When done right, they free up the Lead Pastor to lead spiritually, speak boldly, and shepherd well. Without this bridge, vision often dies in the gap between intention and implementation.
When hiring an XP, look for:
High follow-through and attention to detail: Can they spot a gap and close it without drama?
Emotional intelligence and spiritual maturity: Are they trusted, steady, and pastoral?
Clarity in systems and communication: Can they simplify complexity and move people toward action?
A heart for the church, not just a skill set: Are they motivated by mission, not just management?
Get this hire wrong, and your team will flounder. But get it right, and your Lead Pastor can soar. And so can your church.
Wondering what kind of XP your church really needs?
Take our quick 5-minute assessment to see whether your church should hire more “Executive” or “Pastor”—and get clarity on the fit that’s right for your team.
(Pro tip: Have your candidates complete the survey as part of your interview process.)
Already have an XP? Have them take the assessment to see how their current strengths align with your church’s needs—and where there may be opportunities for growth.