Executive Director

Overview

Congregation Or Torah is one of the largest Modern Orthodox Synagogues in the Midwest, with nearly 350 member families. Our congregation, led by Rabbi Zvi Engel, serves as a place of spiritual growth and communal activity within the greater Skokie area.

Or Torah’s mission is to provide a premier Modern Orthodox experience to our membership. We are committed to spiritual growth and Jewish education, an embrace of and respect for fellow Jews, strong support of Israel, an emphasis on the entire family experience, social consciousness and community responsibility. 

Or Torah seeks a talented leader to guide the Congregation as its Executive Director. Reporting to the President of the Board of Directors, and working closely with the Rabbi, Board and congregants, this highly motivated individual will play a critical role in managing the overall operation of the synagogue to continue to build a dynamic, growing congregation. The ideal candidate will have exceptional leadership qualities with notable synagogue and/or nonprofit executive management experience.

The Executive Director will have the opportunity to participate in the strategic planning and development of the synagogue, ensuring its prosperity for generations to come. This individual should have prior fundraising and event experience, including the ability to build and maintain donor relationships, identify prospects, and solicit support. The Executive Director will manage the office administrator, youth director and custodian. Candidates need to be familiar with Jewish customs and lifecycle events. Participation in all activities of the synagogue is essential.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the synagogue, including all programs, events, staff, fundraising, board communications, fiscal management, membership, public relations and food service coordination
• Provide leadership and strategic direction to the Board of Directors, leveraging talents and networks, and offering board development opportunities; implement synagogue policies, procedures, and decisions of the board
• Oversee the fundraising plan; identify and steward donors, implement annual campaign, capital campaign work, and support the Rabbi and lay leaders in fundraising efforts
• Oversee all Congregation communications, community outreach efforts, marketing and messaging development, and online presence
• Is responsible for the management and supervision of the synagogue’s budget and finances, administrative functions, personnel, and facilities
• Partner with the Board of Directors to implement a strategic plan to ensure long-term sustainability, innovation, expanded membership, and growth in programs and fundraising
• Communicate with clergy, staff, and the Board Membership Committee regarding members’ concerns, life-cycle events and to support retention
• Utilize the synagogue’s services, special events, programming, and board meetings as opportunities to build and strengthen relationships.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree required
• 5+ years of demonstrated leadership experience running an organization, preferably a synagogue or Jewish nonprofit organization
• Strong fundraising background; capital campaign experience is a plus
• Experience managing boards, committees, volunteers, and events
• Passion for the synagogue’s mission and ability to represent the synagogue in the community
• Proven ability to manage and motivate staff and work in partnership with team members and volunteers
• Goal-oriented and strategic with strong multi-tasking and follow-through skills
• Strong business acumen and fiscal management skills
• Superior written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Workplace and QuickBooks is must
• Knowledgeable in website management and social media
• Experience with fundraising software; Shul Cloud experience is a plus

To apply, please submit a resume & cover letter to [email protected].

Congregation Or Torah is an equal-opportunity employer.

Position Summary

Salary Range: commensurate with experience

Start Date: Nov 4, 2024

Location: Skokie, IL (this position is not remote-eligible)