The Chief Executive Officer of the Jewish Federation of Princeton/Mercer/Bucks (Federation) is the key leadership position responsible for overseeing the daily operations, strategic direction, and fundraising for the organization, as well as being the community unifier for the greater Princeton Jewish community.
The CEO will play a foundational role in further developing the organization’s resources, culture, and strategic direction. Success in this role will require an entrepreneurial, hands-on leader who is energized by identifying and leveraging opportunities to evolve the Federation to meet the needs of a dynamic Jewish communal environment.
The Chief Executive Officer plays a key role in ensuring the mission of the Federation is carried out effectively and that resources are maximized to meet community needs.
Mission of the Federation:
The mission of the Jewish Federation of Princeton Mercer Bucks is to preserve, secure and strengthen Jewish life and values in our community, the State of Israel and throughout the world.
Our mission is realized through grant allocations and programming that fall under our four Strategic Pillars:
- Unifying the local Jewish community;
- Caring for vulnerable Jews everywhere;
- Leading in times of crisis.
Job Title: Chief Executive Officer
Location: Mercer County, NJ
Role: Full time position with occasional travel and evening/weekend responsibilities as needed
Reports To: Board of Directors of the Federation (Board)
Salary/Benefits: A competitive salary and benefits package will be offered based on experience.
Position Description:
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is responsible for leading the strategic direction and managing the operations, programs, and staff of the Federation.
The CEO will work closely with the Board, community leaders, donors, and stakeholders to advance the mission of the Federation, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the organization and the success of its fundraising, operations and related programs and services. This leadership role requires an individual with vision, strong management skills, and a deep commitment to Jewish values and community-building.
The CEO will, along with the Board, explore opportunities to enhance the Federation’s impact to more strategically meet the evolving needs of our dynamic Jewish community, including but not limited to exploring strategic alliances with other local Jewish communal organizations.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership & Strategic Planning:
- Lead the Federation organization in terms of strategy, culture and operations.
- Enhance existing structures, and/or build processes and norms for the organization.
- Lead the development and execution of the long term strategic plan for the Federation, ensuring alignment with our mission, values, and community needs.
- Inspire and motivate staff, board members, and volunteers to work collaboratively toward the goals of the Federation.
- Foster a culture of inclusivity, innovation, and growth within the organization and the broader Jewish community.
- Liaise with Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) to ensure alignment, cascade initiatives and priorities, and leverage resources.
Fundraising & Financial Management:
- Oversee and implement the fundraising campaigns and initiatives for the Federation, ensuring the financial health and sustainability of the organization.
- Develop relationships with major donors, foundations, and corporations to secure financial support and raise the necessary funds to carry out programs and services.
- Ensure that the Federation operates within its budgets and meets financial goals.
- Work with the Board and Finance Committee to develop and monitor the annual budget and provide regular financial reports to stakeholders.
Program Oversight & Community Engagement:
- Provide oversight and support for the various programs and services of the Federation, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of the Jewish community.
- Act as the primary representative of the Federation, building and maintaining relationships with local Jewish organizations, synagogues, schools, and other stakeholders.
- Lead efforts to expand the reach and impact of the Federation within the community, focusing on programming to engage and illicit participation from all segments of the Jewish population.
Board & Governance:
- Serve as a key advisor to the Board, providing strategic recommendations and regular updates on the operations and programs of the Federation.
- Work with the Board to ensure effective governance, including policy development, oversight, and the recruitment of new Board members.
- Assist the President in leading Board meetings, coordinating agendas, and preparing materials for board consideration.
Staff Management & Development:
- Hire, mentor, and manage small staff, fostering professional development and promoting a positive work environment.
- Oversee staff performance and ensure that the team has the resources and support needed to execute the mission of the Federation.
- Encourage staff collaboration, innovation, and dedication to the goals of the Federation.
Communication & Public Relations:
- Serve as the public face of the Federation, representing the organization in the media, public forums, and community events.
- Oversee the marketing and communications team to create and implement a comprehensive communications strategy, including but not limited to social media, newsletters, and community outreach.
- Develop and maintain positive relationships with other local, national, and international Jewish organizations and stakeholders.
Qualifications:
Education:
- A bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Jewish Studies, Public Administration, Business, or a related field.
Experience:
- A minimum of 7-10 years of senior-level leadership experience in the nonprofit sector, ideally within the Jewish community or related organizations.
- Proven success in fundraising, donor relations, and financial management.
- Experience working with boards of directors, senior leadership teams, and diverse community stakeholders.
- Strong knowledge of Jewish culture, traditions, community dynamics and youth enrichment.
Skills:
- Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Strong strategic thinking and decision-making abilities.
- Ability to build relationships with individuals, groups, and organizations to advance the missions of the Federation.
- Proficiency in budget management, financial oversight, marketing, and organizational development.
- Comfort with public speaking and representing the Federation in high-level meetings and events.
Personal Qualities:
- Passion for Jewish communal life and a commitment to Jewish values and traditions.
- Integrity, professionalism, and the ability to build trust with diverse communities.
- Ability to think creatively and adapt to changing needs and circumstances.
- Comfort with ambiguity and leading through change.
- Strong work ethic.