With an awe-inspiring sanctuary, Congregation Sherith Israel is a historic landmark synagogue with leadership who innovate and inspire generations of congregants, guests and the greater Jewish community with a variety of services and programs. A Reform synagogue, rooted in Jewish tradition, our roughly 450 member families strive to create a warm and inclusive community for meaningful modern Jewish life.
Position Summary:
Congregation Sherith Israel seeks an experienced and dedicated leader to serve as a critical member of the senior leadership team. In partnership with our rabbis, board of trustees, and lay leaders, the Executive Director is responsible for financial and operational management, human resources, staff supervision and oversight including, fundraising, communications, membership engagement, facilities, rentals, and security.
Key Responsibilities
Organizational Leadership
• Partner with the clergy and board to define, build, articulate, and meet Sherith Israel’s mission, vision, and strategic objectives.
• Implement the vision and policies to ensure goals and objectives are met.
• Strategically foster a culture of teamwork and collaboration with clergy, staff, and lay leaders.
• Represent Sherith Israel in developing relationships with other Jewish and community groups.
Financial Management + Oversight
• With Treasurer and Budget & Finance Committee create sound financial management: develop and maintain financial systems and controls for legal compliance, integrity, and transparency.
• Oversee all financial operations, including supervision of accounting staff and contractors.
• With Treasurer and Budget & Finance Committee, and in collaboration with clergy, president, and staff, create and manage the budget for the synagogue and preschool. The annual budget is approved and monitored by the Trustees.
• Work with outside accounting firm to ensure production of accurate and timely financial reports and regular reports to the board.
• With Treasurer and Investment Committee, ensure that the Investment Manager is submitting all required reports in a timely fashion and adhering to the Investment Policy, as well as ensuring that funds are being allocated per the Investment Policy.
Development
• In collaboration with the Development Committee and Annual Fund Campaign chairs, develop and implement a strategic roadmap to increase annual revenue through donor engagement.
• Oversee all fundraising activities.
• Develop strategy for multi-channel communications.
• Foster a culture of philanthropy.
Membership + Communications
• Structure staff to achieve optimal member engagement for new and existing members.
• Support the Membership Manager in their role as primary liaison to the Membership Committee to ensure that the both are empowered to fully maximize member engagement and recruitment.
• Oversee internal and external communications including online and social media identity.
• Work with marketing consultant to ensure effective external and internal presence.
Operations + Facility
• Manage and oversee the day-to-day operations of the synagogue.
• Oversee administrative, facility, and preschool staff with 5 direct reports.
• In conjunction with the facilities manager, create facility use guidelines including rentals, life-cycle events, and use of kitchen/catering.
• Oversee property management, including renovations and upgrades.
• Maintain current synagogue security and emergency response best practices.
• Ensure that the synagogue is appropriately staffed to support operations.
• Work with the Preschool Director to grow enrollment, ensure quality programming, and compliance with licensing requirements.
This full-time position reports to the Board of Trustees. Hours include some Jewish holidays, weekends, and evenings. This position is predominantly on-site with limited remote work.
The Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate will bring outstanding leadership, management and communication skills to our day-to-day operations, including strong experience in financial management, membership cultivation, and donor relations. Our ED plays a key role in developing the culture of our staff to provide a welcoming atmosphere for congregants, pre-school families, and those who work at Sherith Israel.
Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree required, Master’s degree in related field a plus.
• Minimum of five years of leadership and management experience. Experience in a membership-focused non-profit preferred.
• Demonstrated knowledge of financial and budgeting practices.
• Proven track record in fundraising with an emphasis on individual giving.
• Experience in operational and administrative management with a strong background in supervision, team-building, and staff development.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Suite and CRMs required. Experience with ShulCloud preferred.
• Ability to handle confidential and sensitive matters with discretion and professionalism.
Compensation: $155,000 - $170,000 DOE
Benefits: Medical and dental plans; paid holidays, vacation + sick leave, professional development; 5% employer contribution to retirement plan managed by URJ/RPB.
To apply: Email cover letter and resume. Please include “Executive Director” in the subject line.
