Synagogue Executive Director

Job Description:

The Executive Director is the Chief Executive Officer of the Synagogue with responsibilities for overseeing the fundraising and strategic planning functions, and managing the Synagogues business operations by overseeing staff, and contracts with vendors. Together with our clergy, the Executive Director interacts with members and other community stakeholders. The Executive Director reports to the Board President, and supports and guides the Board of Trustees, its committees and other lay volunteers.

Organizational Leadership

• Provides support and collaborates closely with the clergy, the Director of Youth & Family Learning, and the Engagement Coordinator working together to carry out the mission and goals of Emanuel.
• Works to establish policies, in line with the Emanuel Vision, that support the long-term operational and financial health of the congregation.
• Acts as a resource for the Board of Trustees, Synagogue Committees, and offers guidance and support to lay leaders and committee initiatives.
• Helps establish cooperative relationships with other area synagogues, community groups, and organizations.
• Represents the synagogue to Jewish organizations and civic-minded community groups.
• Welcomes current and prospective members, creating a warm welcoming environment for all congregants, lay leaders, volunteers, staff, and visitors.
• Serves as a point of contact for any synagogue emergency.

Administration

• Provides oversight of systems supporting membership, dues, publications, the website, calendar, holiday planning, and other key operations.
• Selects and evaluates platforms to ensure alignment with the synagogue’s goals and operational needs.
• Oversees, monitors, and approves synagogue purchases, payments, and reimbursements within approved budget.
• Serves as point of contact for our major facility tenant, currently The Children’s Museum and Preschool.
• Coordinates with the clergy, Director of Youth and Family Learning and Board of Trustees to optimize space utilization for rental agreements and renewals.
• Anticipates issues and opportunities, identifying needs for both short-term and long-term planning.

Human Resources

• Fosters a culture of respect, collaboration and integrity
• Establishes policies that promote regulatory compliance and support long-term operational health of the staff.
• Hires, supervises, trains, and evaluates non-clergy and non-educational staff. Currently includes Membership & Community Services Manager, Marketing Manager and Administrative Coordinator, Bookkeeper, Engagement Coordinator, and Facilities Manager.
• Builds organizational structure and clarity of roles across staff.
• Oversees processes for secure, fair, and consistent HR practices, ensuring compliance with employment laws and workplace safety.

Engagement

• Participates in synagogue events and occasionally attends religious services.
• Develops knowledge of and relationships with congregants to promote a culture of engagement, belonging, and connection.
• In partnership with clergy and professional staff, promote and coordinate religious, holiday, educational, and social programming that foster engagement, connection and retention of members.

Financial Management and Fundraising

• Works with the Treasurer and Finance Committee on preparation, oversight, and review of the synagogue’s annual operating budget; prepares reports as needed.
• Maintains vendor relationships by managing contract renewals and researching cost-effective alternatives. Collaborate with the relevant committee to ensure contract decisions support organizational goals
• Identifies and applies for alternative funding and grant opportunities.
• Partners with lay leaders and volunteers to design and execute fundraising initiatives.
• Directs development strategies in close partnership with the Rabbi and leadership team, encompassing donor cultivation, stewardship, and giving programs.
• Builds and maintains relationships with existing and potential donors to expand the annual campaign, broaden the donor base, and encourage legacy giving. Ensure they are properly and meaningfully recognized.

Facilities Management

• In partnership with Facilities Manager oversees synagogue facilities, building maintenance, repairs, and renovations in conjunction with House Committee and vendors.
• Provides oversight of safety and security practices and systems.
• Ensures compliance with inspections and building maintenance schedule

Minimum Qualifications

• Proven experience as executive director or in other managerial roles in a non-profit organization, preferably with a Jewish organization.
• Experience in developing and executing strategic plans and initiatives.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong understanding of finance and development.
• Project management, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Bachelor's Degree required.
• Several years of experience preferred in progressive management roles including personnel, program, service, and operations management.

The above job duties and responsibilities describe the general nature and level of the work for an employee in this position. This is not intended as an exclusive or all-inclusive inventory of all duties required of this employee.

Salary and Application

• Salary Range: $100,000+ based on qualifications and experience.
• Please submit resume and cover letter.