Executive Director

About Am Kolel

Am Kolel is an independent Jewish community dedicated to Jewish renewal by addressing spiritual needs in a welcoming, inclusive manner and responding to issues facing society with a progressive Jewish presence. Am Kolel means "an inclusive people." We celebrate the spiritual warmth of Judaism in a form that is joyful and personal. We reflect the ideals and principles of the Jewish Renewal Movement.

We are devoted to the revitalization of Judaism and the Jewish community. We offer opportunities for individuals to rediscover and discover a Judaism that is spiritually and socially meaningful; a Judaism that speaks to the heart and to the issues we face in our daily lives; a Judaism that is compassionate towards others and towards this earth.

We are a community in transition and seeking a visionary leader with experienced leadership for the years ahead. This is an opportunity to build something meaningful with a committed community.

Position Summary

The Executive Director serves as the operational and visionary leader of Am Kolel. This person reports directly to the Am Kolel Board of Directors and is responsible for all aspects of organizational management, member engagement, fundraising and community representation. This is a unique opportunity for a leader with a growth mindset. If you can identify funding opportunities, expand programming, and grow membership, you'll have the resources and freedom to build something significant.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

• Provides strategic direction and serves as external voice for Am Kolel in collaboration with the board
• Builds and maintains relationships with members, donors, volunteers, and community partners
• Identifies and pursues growth opportunities (new programs, expanded reach, community partnerships)

Fundraising & Development

• Develops and implements comprehensive fundraising strategy cultivating donor relationships, planning and executing giving campaigns and pursuing grant opportunities

Operations & Administration

• Oversees organizational calendar, scheduling, Zoom logistics, CRM/database, and communications screening (handled by admin assistant)
• Oversees the writing and distribution of weekly newsletters and special communications, and oversees website content and social media presence

Programming & Member Engagement

• Organizes and consults with committees of members to develop engaging programs and build community through programming, outreach, and member engagement aligned with Am Kolel's mission

Financial Management

• Oversees organizational budget and financial planning with an entrepreneurial eye toward sustainability and growth
• Works with bookkeeper, treasurer, and finance committee on financial reporting
• Reports monthly to the board on financial status, operational metrics, and fundraising progress

Required Qualifications & Skills

• 3+ years of nonprofit or community organization management experience
• Strong understanding of Jewish life, practice, and community (formal Jewish training strongly preferred)
• Proven ability to build community and execute engaging programming
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency with technology: email, Google Workspace, Zoom, CRM software, basic website management
• Comfort with financial oversight and budget management
• Ability to honor and build on the founder's vision while establishing independent leadership
• Commitment to Jewish Renewal values and progressive Judaism

Added Advantages (Preferred)

• Rabbinic or cantorial training/ordination
• Ability to lead services, teach Jewish content, or provide spiritual direction
• Musical ability (instrument, singing, music direction, or composition)

Reporting & Authority

Reports to: Am Kolel Board of Directors

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: $80,000 - $100,000/year (Commensurate with experience. Candidates with rabbinic/cantorial ordination or equivalent teaching credentials will be considered on a separate, higher compensation scale). Performance based bonus available.

This is a full-time role.

Benefits Package:

• Health insurance contribution
• Paid time off: 3 weeks vacation + 5 personal days + major Jewish holidays
• Professional development fund ($1000/year)
• Flexible hybrid working arrangement; must be local to the DMV area and able to travel for in-person programming and events