Synagogue Director

Job Posting: Synagogue Director

Organization: Congregation Agudath Israel of West Essex

Location: 20 Academy Rd, Caldwell, NJ

About Us:

Our mission: Discovering the joy, purpose, and power of Jewish life together.

A vibrant, active, Conservative synagogue with approximately 800 member families, CAI has been an important pillar of the Caldwell community for over 100 years. With our rich history and focus on tradition, we are also looking to the future with creativity and innovation, while fostering meaningful connections and strong communal bonds.

About You:

We are seeking a highly organized systems thinker to serve as our Synagogue Director. This person will serve as part of our leadership team and will be critical in ensuring the smooth functioning of our synagogue and advancing our mission.

Position Overview: The Synagogue Director will play a pivotal role in overseeing the operations of our synagogue, managing staff, supporting the board of trustees, and serving as a key member of the senior staff team. This position will also oversee budgetary and development efforts, ensuring the financial health and sustainability of our community. The synagogue director will report to the senior rabbi.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Staff Management:
   • Lead and manage a diverse team of professionals, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment
   • Supervise the following positions: operations and events manager, director of finance, executive administrative assistant, office manager, development associate, and communications manager
   • Oversee day-to-day operations and ensure alignment with the synagogue’s mission and goals
2. Board Support and Engagement:
   • Serve as the primary liaison between the staff and the board of trustees
   • Support the board in governance and strategic planning initiatives
   • Coordinate board meetings, prepare materials, and ensure effective communication
3. Senior Leadership Team:
   • Collaborate with clergy, senior staff, and lay leadership to develop and implement strategic priorities.
   • Serve as primary liaison between senior staff team, synagogue office staff, and education department – coordinating and communicating across teams
   • Conduct staff reviews, coach staff members, help establish priorities for office staff team, develop and implement new operational systems to improve collaboration, efficiency, and work processes
4. Budget Management:
   • Oversee the development and management of the annual budget in collaboration with the finance team
   • Ensure fiscal responsibility and transparency in all financial matters
   • Track and monitor expenditures and income to maintain financial health
5. Development and Fundraising:
   • Lead development efforts, in partnership with senior rabbi and development team
   • Collaborate with lay leaders and staff on fundraising initiatives and campaigns
   • Identify and pursue grant opportunities to support programs and operations

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in organizational management, preferably in a nonprofit or synagogue setting
• Strong leadership and team-building skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
• Experience with budget literacy and financial management
• Familiarity with Conservative Judaism and non-profit administration

Personal Attributes:

• A strategic thinker with a passion for mission-driven work.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented
• Adaptable and able to thrive in a dynamic environment
• Collaborative and able to build strong relationships with diverse stakeholders

Compensation: Annual salary range 90k – 100K commensurate with experience, plus benefits.

To Apply: Please submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references to Debra Lurie - dlurie@agudath.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Join us in shaping the future of our synagogue community and making a meaningful impact on Jewish life in NJ.