Executive Director

Congregation Etz Chayim

Congregation Etz Chayim, a vibrant 342-household liberal and unaffiliated synagogue in Palo Alto, seeks a dynamic Executive Director to serve as co-leader alongside our Rabbi. We are an independent, egalitarian congregation that melds elements from Judaism's different branches, welcoming everyone from those steeped in tradition to those new to Jewish life.

About Our Community

Our participatory community spans the Bay Area, encompassing diverse family structures and backgrounds. We make Jewish life accessible to all, including interfaith families, while maintaining our reputation for excellence in Jewish education. Etz’s culture values shared leadership, volunteerism, and collaborative governance.

The Role

Partner with our Rabbi as leader while managing comprehensive synagogue operations. This position combines strategic vision with hands-on management, requiring someone who can foster community while ensuring operational excellence. You'll work closely with engaged lay leadership in our collaborative governance model, build a strong and effective staff, and represent us in the broader community.

This role demands a leader who builds trust before enforcing change, who sees culture as infrastructure, and who believes power is most effective when shared. They will inherit a deeply human, values-driven organization—and must know how to steward it without making it about themselves.

What You’ll Do

Leadership & Community Building

• Co-lead weekly Program Team meetings with Rabbi and Director of Learning
• Serve as Board liaison and advisor on critical issues and sensitive matters including bi-weekly Executive Committee meetings with the Rabbi, President and Vice President of the Board.
• Build relationships across our diverse congregation and recruit volunteers and future leaders
• Serve as primary contact for member needs and non-Rabbinic concerns

Operations & Administration

• Manage annual budget and financial stewardship with Finance Committee
• Oversee facilities, security, and coordinate major events including High Holy Days
• Supervise all staff except the Rabbi, including hiring, development, and performance management
• Maintain efficient office systems and communication channels for staff, members, stakeholders, and broader community

Culture & Strategic Vision

• Embody our cultural values in your leadership and day-to-day work
• Foster a welcoming, psychologically safe environment for our staff and congregants
• Develop strategic partnerships and support long-term planning initiatives
• Help maintain our healthy membership with creative thinking around community engagement, recruitment, onboarding, and retention

What We're Looking For

Experience & Knowledge

• Proven experience in synagogue administration or comparable nonprofit leadership
• Working knowledge of Jewish rituals, calendar, and diverse Jewish movements or a genuine interest and commitment to learning them
• Strong financial management, budget oversight, and people management experience
• Track record in fundraising and development strategies preferred
• Volunteer stewardship, recruitment and engagement experience preferred

Leadership Qualities

• Collaborative partner who thrives in shared governance and co-leadership models
• Exceptional relationship builder with ability to connect across diverse constituencies
• Skilled communicator who can resolve conflicts and build trust
• Adaptable leader comfortable with entrepreneurial, hands-on synagogue culture

Additional Attributes

• Deep commitment to Jewish community and congregational mission
• Serves as Jewish role model while remaining sensitive to interfaith families
• Genuinely enjoys connecting with people from diverse backgrounds
• Unflappable under pressure with strong problem-solving skills
• Curious and appreciative approach to Judaism's richness and complexity

Why You Should Join Our Community

Make a meaningful impact in a supportive, mission-driven environment that values innovation, collaboration, and inclusive Jewish life. Work alongside dedicated clergy and lay leaders who are passionate about creating accessible, meaningful Jewish experiences for all.

To Apply: Submit cover letter and resume to [email protected], demonstrating alignment with our community values and relevant synagogue or nonprofit leadership experience.

Congregation Etz Chayim is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.