Executive Search
Meet Edgewood Baptist Church
Edgewood Baptist Church in Rock Island, Illinois exists to make disciples of Jesus Christ by gathering, growing, giving, and going with the gospel, all for the glory of God.
Edgewood is motivated by God’s command to gather. The congregation gathers each weekend to sing praises and hear God’s word together. Edgewood promotes its members’ growth through community groups and encourages each other to give back with the abilities and talents that God has given to them. They work to bring the gospel to those near and far who do not know Him.
Opportunity
Although Edgewood sustains its many ministries through a dedicated staff, there were a few holes that needed to be filled. Namely, they needed an Administrative Pastor as a shepherd for their congregation and key supporter for the church’s leadership team. Once found, this person would spearhead the day-to-day operations that allow Edgewood to execute their mission and vision. The Administrative Pastor would be entrusted with financial management, human resources, and organizational development for Edgewood. They would also align and support the staff by evaluating and implementing the systems and policies that build their ministry. The Administrative Pastor would prove to be a key component to mission fulfillment for Edgewood.
Solution
Edgewood contacted Vanderbloemen to partner up and find the right candidate, including two other searches for a Youth Pastor and Children’s Ministry Director. Executive Search Consultant Brett Connolly met with Edgewood’s Deacon Board and staff to study exactly what they needed in a team member.
Edgewood’s staff had a culture of being above reproach, having authentic character, and being firmly rooted in the church’s core beliefs. The Administrative Pastor specifically would have to be a self-starter with interpersonal and communication skills to handle the scope of the job. Brett learned the staff wanted a candidate with a seminary degree and experience in leadership and administration. Brett and the recruiting team scanned for candidates with these qualities as the applications rolled in.
Result
It took some digging in Vanderbloemen’s extensive candidate pool, but the right candidate was finally found among the masses of applicants. Soon after placing their Children’s Director role, Daniel Barrett was found and added to the team as Administrative Pastor.
Daniel brought the extensive pastoral experience Edgewood hoped for, having served as a senior pastor, pastor of administration, and senior executive pastor. Being highly educated, Daniel earned a bachelor’s degree in Pastoral Ministry and Bible & Theology, a master’s in Christian Ministry, and a doctorate in Strategic Leadership.
Daniel is described as a man of “compassion” and “great listening skills.” He has been complimented as a “gifted administrator, a passionate teacher/preacher, a compassionate listener, and a devoted husband and father.”
In confidence that the Lord was moving him, Daniel and his family relocated from their home in California to their new home in Rock Island, Illinois. Through 25 years of marriage, and having four children, Daniel said he and his wife have always done ministry together. This new season would be no different.
With all three roles successfully filled, Edgewood Baptist Church had at least completed its team. Finally made whole, the staff is eager to pursue their mission from all angles.
If you’re ready to start the conversation around hiring, contact our team. We’ll guide you through the hiring process at every level, from job descriptions to signing the offer letter.
