Academic Affairs Manager

Are you looking for a mission-driven non-profit where your skills can help people in need around the world? At the Jewish United Fund (JUF), we take pride in our mission and in having a work culture that fosters a sense of belonging and feels rewarding, supportive, and inclusive. We have a hybrid schedule and offer generous benefits including a 401(k) match, up to 22 days of paid time off (starting with 15), up to 11 sick days (starting with 7), and up to 21 paid holidays. The salary range for this role is $55,000-$60,000.

What you’ll be responsible for:

You will play a key role in fostering positive relationships between JUF and academic institutions to prevent and mitigate instances of antisemitism. This position involves developing and implementing strategies to build inclusive communities across diverse backgrounds. Responsibilities include collaborating with educational institutions, overseeing educational programs, and creating initiatives that promote understanding and unity. Please note: this is not a classroom style teaching role.

What you will be doing:

• Work closely with faculty, staff, and students to cultivate an environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a specific focus on preventing antisemitism and fostering intercultural dialogue.
• Cultivate and maintain collaborative relationships with academic institutions, educators, and relevant stakeholders to strengthen our impact in the fight against antisemitism.
• Develop and implement assessment tools to measure the impact and success of academic programs, adjusting strategies as needed to ensure effectiveness in combating antisemitism and fostering community building.
• Serve as a representative of the organization in academic and community settings, advocating for initiatives that align with our mission and values.
• Stay abreast of academic trends, research, and best practices related to antisemitism and community building, incorporating innovative approaches into our programs.
• Facilitate forums, workshops, and events to actively engage with communities, promoting dialogue, understanding, and collaboration.
• Be responsible for assessing the effectiveness of programs and initiatives, maintaining strong partnerships with external organizations, and contributing to a campus culture that promotes tolerance and respect.

What you need to succeed:

• Bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., school administration, organizational psychology, education policy, public policy, public administration, etc.)
• 2+ years experience in strategic planning, community engagement, or work within education systems.
• In-depth understanding of antisemitism, its historical context, and contemporary challenges.
• Excellent communication, writing, and presentation skills.
• Strong networking and relationship-building abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Flexible mindset as priorities change and ability to multi-task within time constraints.
• Familiarity with the Israel-related-campus landscape.
• Knowledge of American political landscape.
• Fluency with social media.
• Strong interpersonal skills, leadership experience, and a commitment to fostering inclusive environments are essential for success in this role.

What you’ll love about us:

At JUF, you can be part of one of the largest non-profit social welfare institutions in Illinois. We provide food, refuge, healthcare, education, emergency assistance, and essential services to 500,000 Chicagoans of all faiths and millions of Jews around the world. We offer medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) with base contribution and match, additional health and wellness benefits, financial benefits, professional training, tuition reimbursement, paid family leave, and much more. We have a flexible schedule with core hours and the ability to work from home / remote a few days per week (for most positions) on a hybrid basis.