Executive Director

Who We Are
Am Yisrael Congregation, located in Northfield, IL, is a religiously liberal and unique congregation of 345 member households in the near northern suburbs of Chicago. Founded in 1968 and affiliated with United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, we are multi-generational, egalitarian, and participatory Rooted in tradition and guided by religiously progressive values, including the use of musical instruments, we are committed to creating a warm, egalitarian environment that fosters spiritual growth, learning and connection.

Our membership is made up of down-to-earth, friendly people. Am Yisrael is completely egalitarian and has been since its inception.  We strive to be a congregation that includes all persons, embracing differences of marital status, family structure, sexual orientation, gender and its expression, age, mental and physical health and ability.

The Executive Director reports to the President and collaborates closely with the Rabbi and other key staff members to ensure that Am Yisrael’s mission and strategic goals are met efficiently and effectively.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Governance

• Serve as a strategic partner to the Board of Trustees, clergy, education staff, and committees, providing insights and recommendations for effective decision-making.
• Implement Board policies and initiatives, ensuring alignment with the synagogue’s mission and vision.
• Lead day-to-day operations to enable Am Yisrael to fulfill its mission and strategic goals.

Membership Engagement and Retention

• Partner with the Membership Committee and Rabbi to design and implement strategies for member recruitment, integration, and retention.
• Serve as contact for prospective members, providing detailed information about services, programs, and membership structure.
• Maintain accurate member records and assist with strategic planning for growth.
• Oversee the management of member commitments and associated record-keeping.
• Cultivate strong relationships with members to understand and address their needs.

Fundraising and Development:

• Partner with clergy, staff and the Board of Trustees to design and execute comprehensive fundraising plans.

Communications and Marketing:

• Oversee and maintain all communications, including newsletters, social media, website content, and promotional materials.
• Support marketing strategies to increase visibility, attract new members, and highlight the synagogue’s unique offerings.
• Oversee and maintain communications with staff, volunteers, congregants and the general community when appropriate.

Financial Management

• Develop and oversee the synagogue’s annual budget in collaboration with the Treasurer, Rabbi, and Finance Committee.
• Monitor financial performance, including cash flow, expenses, and revenue streams such as membership dues, donations, rentals.
• Oversee membership dues collection and financial assistance programs.
• Ensure accurate financial transaction recording and oversee cash management.
• Work with Treasurer and Finance Committee to administer and manage investments, named funds, insurance policies, and payroll.

Operational Oversight

• Provide guidance and support on policies, workflow, and best practices that enhance efficiency, optimize resources, and improve the member/staff experience including but not limited to calendar management and event logistics.
• Manage vendor relationships and contracts for services, including security, technology, and maintenance.
• Oversee the purchase of supplies.
• Work with established Funeral Plan, ensuring that members’ needs are fully met.
• Ensure compliance with all legal, safety, and regulatory requirements.
• Develop and implement security measures in collaboration with Building and Grounds Supervisor.
• Ensure that congregants and guests are aware of certain security measures, such as exits and barricade rooms.
• Recruit, retain, manage and develop non-clergy staff with a focus on fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
• Ensure compliance with all HR policies and procedures related to benefits.
• Maintain recordkeeping systems for personnel records, applications, legally required documentation, benefits, evaluations.
• Utilize technology to improve operations, member engagement, communication and ensure accurate and secure recordkeeping.

Qualifications, Skills and Abilities

• Minimum of 5 – 7 years experience in a similar executive or management role, ideally within a religious or non-profit organization.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving abilities, with attention to detail and strong follow-up skills.
• Strong operational and financial management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships.
• Proficiency in database management and relevant technology tools.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management abilities.
• Commitment to fostering a positive, caring, inclusive community environment.
• Understanding of Jewish rituals, traditions, religious observance, and holidays.

Working conditions

• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed for programs, events, and emergencies
• Ability to manage in-person, remote, virtual, and hybrid services and events.
• Ability to handle multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Physical ability to oversee facility needs and manage event setups as required.

This position description is intended to provide an overview of the responsibilities and requirements of the Executive Director role. Additional duties may be assigned as needed to support the synagogue’s mission and goals.

Salary and Benefits:

• Full time, on site, with remote potential, salaried position offering $110,000-$120,000 annually.
• Employer paid health insurance
• Paid time off, family leave, complimentary enrollment in religious school if applicable.
• Professional membership dues and related conference expense reimbursement for professional development.