Executive Director

Job Title: Executive Director

Organization: Herzl-Ner Tamid Conservative Congregation (www.h-nt.org)

Location: Mercer Island, WA

Submit resumes to: EDSearch@h-nt.org

Herzl-Ner Tamid (HNT) is seeking a strategic and thoughtful Executive Director to leverage the synagogue’s strengths by leading the organization, in partnership with the Clergy and Board of Directors, to drive interest in and loyalty to the congregation and grow the HNT community. The selection committee is eager to learn more about the unique skills you bring to the table and invites you to submit for this opportunity.

Background:

Herzl-Ner Tamid is nestled in the serene and picturesque community of Mercer Island amidst the tranquil beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Mercer Island is strategically positioned just a stone’s throw away from both Seattle and the Eastside, where vibrant cultural experiences and abundant outdoor adventures are endless.

With over 600 families calling HNT home, we pride ourselves on being more than just a place of worship; we are a vibrant hub of community life. At HNT, we believe in the power of connection-whether through the transformative melodies of music, dynamic worship services that blend tradition with modern approaches, the enriching educational programs, the practice of Tikkun Olam, or the heartfelt engagement of shared gatherings and social activities, we are committed to enriching the lives of all who walk through our doors. 

At HNT, spirits are nourished and meaningful connections blossom. Join us in building a future where belonging knows no bounds, and growth is measured in the depth of our connections. Help us Bring Judaism to Life.

(To learn a little more about us, here is our most recent video.)

Current Situation:

HNT is embarking on a journey of transformation. In a landscape where synagogues vie fiercely for congregants' attention and commitment, particularly in terms of relevance and financial support, HNT is rising to meet the challenge head-on. Recognizing the need to adapt swiftly, the organization has already made strides by welcoming aboard a seasoned and compassionate Director of Education for our religious school, as well as a dynamic Director of Music & Programming. Moreover, amidst the poignant loss of our cherished Cantor, HNT is currently engaged in a Cantorial Search to ensure the continued vibrancy of our musical traditions. There is also the groundbreaking collaboration between HNT and the Jewish Day School of Seattle, which signifies the creation of a vibrant center for Jewish life on HNT’s campus to foster a thriving Jewish community with diverse activities, education and opportunities.

Now, as we set our sights on a future brimming with promise, HNT is actively seeking an Executive Director to spearhead our strategic evolution. This pivotal role will involve crafting and executing a comprehensive strategic plan aimed at enhancing the experiences of both current and prospective congregants. By leveraging our unique identity and values, we aspire to distinguish HNT as a beacon of enthusiastic Judaism and inclusivity within our community.

We are seeking a strategic collaborator who will work hand in hand with all facets of our organization to drive tangible outcomes and sustainable growth. We are eager to partner with an individual who recognizes that HNT is far from your average conservative synagogue and possesses the creativity and vision to effectively convey this message through groundbreaking initiatives.

In essence, HNT is at the cusp of profound transformation, presenting an unparalleled opportunity for a visionary leader to join us in building a vibrant and cohesive community. If you are passionate about innovation, community engagement, and making a lasting impact, we invite you to seize this moment with us and become an integral part of our journey towards a brighter future.

Next Steps:

The selection process begins with the submission of a resume and, ideally, a cover letter introduction. Following our review of the resume submissions, we will narrow the applicant field to a select group to receive a written questionnaire. Upon receiving the written submissions, we will further narrow the field to a small group to be interviewed. Ultimately, we aim to invite a couple of finalists to visit our congregation. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions. The contact information for the selection committee is: EDSearch@h-nt.org . We look forward to learning more about you.

Overview:

Reporting directly to the President of the Board of Directors, the Executive Director assumes a pivotal role in the administrative leadership of the synagogue. Leading a dedicated team of about 10 administrative employees, the Executive Director oversees all operational facets pertaining to the synagogue, its premises, and infrastructure.

The Executive Director implements the Board’s vision by turning strategic objectives into actionable plans. Collaborating closely with clergy, lay leadership, and senior staff, the Executive Director fosters a cohesive partnership aimed at achieving organizational goals while ensuring that all staff deliver exceptional service to the congregation’s membership and prospective members of our congregation.

TO APPLY: Please send cover letter, resume, and references to Ilene Sloan & Lindsay O’Neil at EDSearch@h-nt.org.

Core Duties & Responsibilities:

·      Oversees the synagogue's annual budget, ensuring fiscal integrity and steering financial resources towards optimal outcomes with adherence to Board policies, contract review and approval and grant writing.

·      Collaborate with the Board, lay leaders, and volunteers to develop and implement effective fundraising strategies, meticulously planning and executing campaigns to bolster the synagogue's financial stability.

·      Hire and supervise all administrative staff, contract employees and vendors, which includes, but is not limited to, finance, operations, programming, marketing, communication, general administration, custodial/maintenance, and security.

o  Create and maintain a supportive culture that attracts, retains, empowers and

motivates a committed team of engaged employees and volunteers.

o  Provide onboarding for all new staff.

·      Lead human resources, guiding talent strategy and fostering a culture of

excellence and growth while ensuring compliant hiring and labor practices.

·      Oversee all operations of the synagogue, encompassing the day-to-day coordination of activities, services, programs, and events.

o  Manage building utilization, maintenance, and grounds upkeep while prioritizing the safety and security of all occupants and property.

o  Oversee tenant relations and facility rental policies.

o  Execute contract negotiations with vendors.

·      Manage the safety, security and health of staff and all users of HNT campus including but not limited to:

o  Managing security vendor contracts,

o  Partnering with the Security & Safety Committee, 

o  Strategizing short- and long-term planning for security needs, including researching and applying for security grants,

o  Implementing security and safety recommendations put forth by the committee in a timely manner.

o  Anticipating risk and proactively researching and implementing solutions that add to the community’s safety.

·      Serve as an HNT stakeholder and administrative liaison to the Barnabie Point project (located on HNT property), which should start campus construction this year. Collaborate with our JDS partners, and other important parties in this expansion project, and contribute to its success.

·      Partner with clergy and the Board on implementing the strategic vision for HNT.

o  Provide timely monthly and annual written Executive Director reports to the Board.

o  Participate as an ex-officio participant at Board meetings and follows through with Board

directives.

o  Promote effective information sharing with clergy, the staff, and the Board.

·      Oversee the synagogue calendar, and its intersection with HNT activities and

greater Jewish community activities.

·      Provide managerial support for all Board of Director and committee operations, except the Ritual Committee.

·      Partner with the Director of Education to ensure the success of the FRS Religious School, providing infrastructure support for school tuition collection and related activities.

·      Establish essential connections for members, and prospective members, by providing high-quality and timely membership engagement and support. Train staff to do the same, ensuring that membership engagement and support remains a top priority.

·      Serve as a steward of the synagogue, maintain healthy community relations with other local Jewish organizations, community groups, neighbors, local police, and city officials. 

·      Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Skills:

The ideal candidate is a motivated and inspirational self-starter, who is a highly skilled and organized manager that can effectively manage the complex operations of HNT.

o  Bachelor’s degree required. Master’s degree a plus.

o  5+ years management experience in a mid-size to large synagogue or non-profit organization with an engaged volunteer leadership.

o  Demonstrated successful track record in budgeting, fiscal management, and fundraising efforts.

o  Excellent verbal and written communication. Knowledge of marketing and communication strategy a plus.

o  Excellent interpersonal skills, encompassing diplomacy, confidentiality, and exceptional customer relationship management skills.

o  Experience managing teams and supervising multiple staff with a foundational understanding of HR rules and policies.

o  Effective team builder with the demonstrated ability to hire, train, delegate and create an efficient organization.

o  Demonstrated time management and ability to multi-task with excellent skills in strategizing planning, organization, problem-solving, and scheduling.

o  Ability to analyze situations, formulate effective solutions, and exercise independent judgment.

This is a full-time exempt position. The salary range is $125,000 to $150,000, depending on experience. Benefits include paid medical, dental, vision, long-term disability benefits, the option to purchase life insurance, paid sick and vacation leave, and time off for most federal and Jewish holidays, and a professional development stipend. Additional benefits negotiable.