One of the biggest leadership changes in evangelical Christianity is officially underway.
After nearly two decades leading Focus on the Family, President Jim Daly has announced the ministry is beginning the search for its next president, setting the stage for a carefully planned leadership transition ahead of the organization's 50th anniversary in 2027.
Unlike many recent high-profile ministry leadership changes that have been overshadowed by controversy, Daly made it clear this transition is happening from a position of strength. The Colorado Springs-based ministry says it is financially healthy, growing, and intentionally preparing the next generation of leadership before a crisis ever emerges.
"We're not under any kind of situation of moral collapse," Daly said, explaining that he wants to hand over the organization while it is thriving rather than waiting until circumstances force a change.
Focus on the Family has enlisted executive search firm FaithSearch Partners to conduct a nationwide search expected to last between 12 and 18 months. The ministry's board of directors will make the final decision, with applications opening immediately.
Founded in 1977 by psychologist and author Dr. James Dobson, Focus on the Family became one of the most influential evangelical organizations in America through its radio broadcasts, books, counseling services and advocacy on marriage, parenting, religious liberty and pro-life issues. Today the ministry reports reaching millions through radio, podcasts and digital media while operating 13 international offices with approximately 750 employees and an annual budget of roughly $150 million.
Daly, who succeeded Dobson in 2005, admitted that watching the founder's transition wasn't always easy and said those experiences have shaped how he wants to leave the organization.
"So many transitions don't go well," Daly reflected. "When it's my turn, I want to make sure I do it as best as I can."
During his tenure, Daly expanded Focus on the Family's ministry beyond broadcasting by emphasizing practical support for families. Drawing from his own childhood growing up in foster care, he championed foster care and adoption initiatives, respite care for foster families, pregnancy resource centers equipped with ultrasound technology and educational programs designed to strengthen parental involvement.
Looking toward the future, Daly believes the next president will face a dramatically different cultural landscape than previous generations. He noted that counseling requests increasingly center on issues such as social media, gender identity and family relationships, replacing many of the traditional parenting concerns that once dominated the ministry's phone lines.
Despite those changing challenges, Daly said the board is seeking a leader who will remain firmly committed to Focus on the Family's longstanding biblical convictions while engaging people with compassion.
As for his own future, Daly expects to support the incoming president behind the scenes and has been asked to consider assisting with donor relations during the transition. However, he insists his priority is ensuring the new leader has room to lead without being overshadowed by his predecessor.
With one of evangelicalism's most recognizable organizations preparing for its next chapter, all eyes will now be on who will eventually succeed the man who has guided Focus on the Family for nearly 20 years.
