Interim Executive Director

University of Kansas (KU)  Hillel

Role Overview

University of Kansas (KU)  Hillel seeks an experienced nonprofit executive leader to serve as our full-time interim executive director for a period of up to 12 months starting June 2023. This is a full-time exempt position (preferably).  Open to other arrangements depending on the candidate.

The interim executive director for KU Hillel will provide support and stability following the exit of an executive director who led and grew the organization for six years.  You will work to ensure a smooth transition and financial stability as the board engages in a search for a permanent executive director to be launched in early 2024.

We seek candidates with senior executive leadership experience who are passionate about promoting Jewish life among emerging adults, developing and leading a team of professionals and board members, managing an organizational transition, strengthening financial resources, and managing stakeholder relations. 

The University of Kansas (KU) is centered in the town of Lawrence, Kansas. Founded by abolitionists in 1854, Lawrence has carried that tradition of freedom and individuality through the generations. Today, Lawrence remains a crossroads of culture, celebrating the artists and innovators that populate its history and create an unmistakable identity.  So too is the spirit of the Jayhawks that power KU.  KU is the state’s flagship institution, home to innovative research and the constant pursuit of knowledge.  KU offers fourteen academic schools and four hundred degree and certificate programs, currently serving nineteen thousand undergraduate students.  

Hille at KU serves 1,200 Jewish students.  KU Hillel’s professional team includes the following full-time staff: Assistant Director, Senior Jewish Educator and Program Coordinator.  In partnership with Jewish Family Services of Kansas City, KU Hillel offers individual therapy and support to students through an on-site Licensed Master Social Worker/Therapist (part-time).  No staff transitions are expected in the upcoming academic year. 

Job Responsibilities

• Work collaboratively with KU Hillel board members, Hillel International and other stakeholders to maintain and strengthen the organization’s finances and governance.
• Supervise, support and mentor the KU Hillel professional staff to further support their individual roles and develop their professional skills. 
• Craft a development plan for FY24  that meets budgeted goals and sets the stage for future expanded fundraising.
• Cultivate relationships with current and prospective board members that build on the culture of excellence in governance and volunteer management.
• Strengthen relations with key stakeholders and strategic partners in the community.
• Encourage positive organizational change and growth with a commitment to transparency, trust and collaboration across the organization.

Qualifications & Required Experience

• Minimum of five years nonprofit executive leadership experience. Experience in Hillel or organizations focused on Jewish youth and/or young adult engagement is preferred.
• Ensured sound financial management practices including budgeting, cost controls and regular reporting to an oversight committee or board.
• Success in major gift fundraising, managing professionals, board development, stakeholder relations and financial management.
• Managed a team of professionals to accomplish their best work and develop their potential.
• Produced effective communications including written proposals, newsletters, direct mail pieces, etc.
• Led or assisted in the development and training of board leadership.
• Built relationships with key stakeholders and influential leaders within education or nonprofit spaces.
• Engaged in formal or informal Jewish education offerings.

Compensation & Benefits

• The salary range for this role is $7,500 per month (paid on a biweekly basis).
• A comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, 403(b) retirement plan, life insurance, long term disability (LTD), vacation/sick time, and parental leave.
• Strategic support from a dedicated Campus Support Director at Hillel’s Schusterman International Center.

About KU Hillel

KU Hillel is affiliated with Hillel International. Hillel International enriches the lives of Jewish students so they may enrich the Jewish people and the world, and envisions a world where every student is inspired to make an enduring commitment to Jewish life, learning and Israel.

If you have any questions about this role please contact: 

Merrie Gebhardt – Director, Executive Talent Management, Hillel International.