In the light of the ongoing review of the agency’s vision, mission, and strategic direction, the Office of the General Assembly (OGA) is moving forward with its planned restructuring.
As a first step toward reducing and realigning its operating budget for 2013-2014, the OGA has presented its eligible staff—including those serving the Presbyterian Historical Society—with details of a voluntary separation package. Employees over the age of 60 and with 10 years of service will have a 45-day window to accept the package, beginning today.
“While our reorganization planning is nearly complete, in order to maintain the work of the OGA during this fiscally trying time, we have decided to first offer a voluntary separation program,” said the Rev. Gradye Parsons, Stated Clerk of the General Assembly. “As we approach such difficult decisions, I am extremely grateful for each member of our staff and the good work they do every day on behalf of Christ’s church. I pray for an extra measure of the discernment of the Spirit as we seek out the future God has for the Office of the General Assembly.”
The final restructuring recommendations from Dudley Hamilton Associates—the New Jersey-based global management consulting firm hired last year by the OGA—are expected in the coming weeks. They will be previewed by the OGA’s staff coordinating cabinet before they are presented for approval by the Committee on the Office of the General Assembly (COGA). The implementation process is expected to begin soon after approval by COGA, and may involve more than one stage.
“While none of this will be easy, I am confident that the long-term result for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) will be beneficial,” Parsons said.