Executive Director

B’nai Jeshurun Congregation, a vibrant Conservative Jewish synagogue serving approximately 900 member households in suburban Cleveland, seeks a strategic and relationship-oriented Chief Operating Officer / Executive Director. This senior leadership role is responsible for guiding the operational, financial, and administrative functions of the congregation while supporting a thriving Jewish communal life. Working in close partnership with clergy, professional staff, and lay leadership, the Executive Director ensures that the synagogue operates effectively, sustainably, and in alignment with its mission to foster meaningful spiritual experiences, lifelong learning, and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities

Organizational Leadership & Administration

• Partner with the Senior Rabbi, President, Officers, Board of Trustees, and committees to implement strategic priorities and organizational policies.
• Provide leadership and supervision for approximately 15 staff members, including multiple direct reports across administration, membership, development, facilities, and finance.
• Serve as a key liaison between clergy, lay leadership, and professional staff to ensure alignment and effective communication.

Financial Management

• Oversee financial operations including budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and coordination of annual audits.
• Manage revenue streams including membership dues, tuition, facility rentals, program fees, and philanthropic contributions.
• Work closely with the Treasurer and Finance Committee to support responsible financial oversight and long-term sustainability.
• Administer and monitor an annual operating budget exceeding $2.5 million, including variance analysis and financial planning.

Membership & Community Engagement

• Promote a welcoming and responsive experience for members and visitors.
• Oversee membership engagement, onboarding, communications, and retention efforts.
• Collaborate with clergy and lay leaders in supporting lifecycle events, holiday programming, and community initiatives.

Facilities & Operations

• Direct operations of a multi-use synagogue facility of approximately 70,000 square feet located on a multi-acre campus.
• Oversee building maintenance, security, vendor relationships, and capital improvement projects.
• Coordinate security planning in collaboration with local law enforcement and community partners.

Development & Fundraising Support

• Collaborate with clergy and supervise development personnel to support fundraising campaigns, donor engagement, and stewardship activities.
• Assist with grant opportunities and donor recognition programs.
• Participate in planning and execution of major fundraising initiatives, including a projected capital campaign exceeding $10 million to support facility modernization.

Communications & Technology

• Oversee internal and external communications, including newsletters, announcements, website content, and digital engagement.
• Ensure effective utilization of synagogue management systems and technology platforms.

Qualifications & Experience

Required

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in nonprofit management, business administration, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of seven years of progressively responsible leadership or managerial experience in nonprofit, mission-driven, Jewish communal, or private-sector environments.
• Demonstrated success in financial management, organizational operations, and staff supervision.
• Experience managing organizational budgets and maintaining fiscal accountability.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a professional and approachable presence.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and complex projects.
• Experience working with volunteer leadership or governing boards.
• Familiarity with Jewish communal life and the rhythms of the Jewish calendar.
• Willingness to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and major Jewish holidays.

Preferred

• Experience serving as an Executive Director, COO, or senior administrator in a synagogue or Jewish communal organization.
• Knowledge of Conservative Jewish practice and synagogue operations.
• Experience supporting or managing capital campaigns or major fundraising initiatives.
• Familiarity with nonprofit accounting practices, HR compliance, and employment regulations.

Key Competencies & Attributes

• Strategic thinking and operational leadership
• Financial acumen and data-informed decision making
• Relationship-building and collaborative leadership
• Organizational management and prioritization
• Strong communication and facilitation skills
• Commitment to inclusive community engagement
• Cultural awareness of Jewish traditions and communal values