Synagogue Executive Director

About The Emanuel Synagogue:

The Emanuel Synagogue is a vibrant, inclusive, and forward-thinking Conservative congregation that welcomes individuals and families of all ages, cultural backgrounds, and orientations to participate fully in our community. Whether through prayer services, educational programming, or social and cultural events, we encourage active engagement and foster a sense of belonging for all.

We are dynamic and innovative in how we express and celebrate Jewish traditions, customs, and teachings—honoring our rich heritage while embracing new ideas, technologies, and forms of connection that meet the evolving needs of today’s Jewish community. Our robust calendar of events reflects a community that is energetic, intellectually curious, and spiritually alive.

More than a place of worship, The Emanuel is a hub for lifelong learning, meaningful relationships, and mutual support through every phase of the Jewish lifecycle. As a multi-generational congregation with deep roots in the Greater Hartford area, we take pride in our 100+ years of service, while also celebrating the vitality of our future—evidenced by our recent growth to 561 families, including more than 65 new families welcomed over the past two years.

At The Emanuel, tradition and innovation go hand-in-hand as we continue to shape a warm, welcoming, and resilient community for generations to come.

Job Description:

The Executive Director is the Chief Executive Officer of the Synagogue with responsibility for all Synagogue operations. The Executive Director and the Clergy develop and maintain relationships with members, staff and other community stakeholders. The Executive Director reports to the Board President and supports and guides the Board of Trustees with fundraising and strategic planning.

Organizational Leadership

• Provides support for and collaborates closely with the Clergy, the Director of Youth & Family Learning, and the Engagement Coordinator to execute the mission of The Emanuel.
• Works to establish policies that support the long-term operational and financial health of the congregation.
• Helps establish cooperative relationships with other area synagogues and organizations.
• Helps foster a culture of engagement, belonging and connection for current and prospective congregants, volunteers, staff, and visitors.
• Serves as a point of contact for any synagogue emergency.

Administration

• Provides oversight of systems supporting membership, dues collections, publications, the website, calendar, holiday planning and the cemetery.
• Oversees, monitors, and approves synagogue purchases, payments, and reimbursements within approved budget.
• Manages relationship with our major facility tenant, currently The Children’s Museum and Preschool.
• Coordinates with the Clergy, Senior staff and Board of Trustees on space utilization.

Human Resources

• Establishes and implements human resources policies.
• Hires, manages 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.
• Fosters a culture of respect, collaboration and integrity.

Engagement

• Participates in synagogue events and attends some religious services.
• In partnership with clergy and professional staff, promotes and coordinates 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 and reports.
• Maintains vendor relationships by managing contract renewals and researching cost-effective alternatives in collaboration with relevant committees.
• Identifies and collaborates on funding and grant opportunities.
• Partners with lay leaders and volunteers to design and execute fundraising events.
• In close partnership with the Rabbi and leadership team, builds and maintains relationships with existing and potential donors to expand the annual campaign, broaden the donor base, and encourage legacy giving.

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.
• 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: $120,000+ based on qualifications and experience.
• Please submit resume and cover letter to Reesa Olins, Synagogue President: reesa@emanuelsynagogue.org