Director of Development

Position Summary:

Congregation Beth Israel (CBI), a vibrant and inclusive Reform synagogue in the heart of Austin, TX, is seeking a dynamic Director of Development to lead our fundraising efforts at a pivotal moment in our congregation’s history.

This individual will play a central role in managing a transformational capital campaign to fund the construction of a new sanctuary and community space, while also enhancing annual giving, donor stewardship, and long-term development systems. This is a unique opportunity for a passionate development professional to shape the future of a growing spiritual community with deep roots in Austin.

Key Responsibilities:

Capital Campaign (Primary Focus – Years 1-2)

• Lead all aspects of a multi-million dollar capital campaign, from strategy through implementation.
• Collaborate with campaign consultants, clergy, lay leadership, and board members to develop a compelling case for support and fundraising materials.
• With the Executive Director, identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors and prospects in partnership with clergy and volunteer leadership.
• Organize and manage campaign-related events, donor briefings, and recognition activities.
• Track campaign progress and provide regular updates to staff, board, and campaign committees.

Annual Giving, Donor Engagement & Legacy Giving

• Develop and execute a strategic plan to increase annual fund contributions, including Annual Commitments, High Holy Day appeals and other targeted campaigns, including specific fundraising strategies targeted at preschool families and legacy giving.
• Create and oversee donor stewardship and recognition to ensure strong, lasting relationships with congregants and supporters.
• Enhance CBI’s donor communications and storytelling to articulate impact and inspire generosity.

Development Systems & Infrastructure

• Implement tools, systems, and processes to support best practices in fundraising, including database management, donor segmentation, and analytics.
• Work closely with administrative staff to ensure accurate gift recording, timely acknowledgments, and donor recordkeeping.
• Train and support board and lay leaders in their development roles.

Qualifications:

• Four to seven years of professional fundraising experience, ideally with demonstrated success in major gift solicitation.
• Experience with capital campaigns is preferred.
• Familiarity with Jewish communal life, nonprofit development, and/or faith-based organizations preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; able to inspire confidence and build relationships with a diverse group of stakeholders.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with attention to detail and follow-through.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and collaborative with the ability to lead and work as part of a team.
• Experience with donor databases.
• Must be willing to relocate to the Austin area.