Beth Emet The Free Synagogue seeks an outstanding Executive Director to realize the congregation’s sacred mission and effectively direct its daily operations. In partnership with the Senior Rabbi and as part of the senior leadership team, the Executive Director is responsible for leading all non-pastoral aspects of congregational life. 

The Executive Director is responsible for managing the congregation’s administrative and financial affairs, including supervisory responsibility for all administrative, accounting, maintenance, and outside contracted personnel. The Director, in partnership with the Treasurer, oversees the financial health of the congregation through the administration of its finances, direction of its fundraising programs, and support for its long-term financial planning. The Director provides support for a wide range of congregational programs and activities. The Director ensures the smooth operation of technology and equipment and the cleanliness of the building and grounds. The Director is responsible for the safety and security of the building, property, staff, congregants, and guests.

The Executive Director will join the Senior Rabbi, Cantor, and Director of Lifelong Learning as a member of the senior leadership team. The Executive Director will report to the President and Board of Trustees.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Executive Leadership and Board Relations

• Envisions and meets both annual and long-term goals for the congregation through the effective administration of the operations of the synagogue

• Executes all activities with staff members across worship, education, social justice, and administration, and maintains the central calendar of the congregation

• Provides the primary support for the Officers and Board of Trustees

• Supervises direct reports for communications, operations, and congregational engagement

Fund Development and Strategic Planning 

• Works with the Beth Emet Foundation to identify and request funds in a timely manner for eligible programs and activities

• Provides leadership and coordination across all fundraising efforts

• Initiates and monitors the solicitation and collection of member dues

• Develops and maintains the strategic development plan for the congregation

Human Resources and Finance

• Develops and maintains administrative, security, and building staff as a multifaceted team

• Manages the employee-related programs for the synagogue personnel

• Maintains the fiscal health of the synagogue and works closely with the Treasurer, the Executive Committee, and the Finance Committee in administering the congregation’s financial resources

• Develops and reports with the Treasurer on the synagogue budget to the Board of Trustees

Facility Management and Security

• Ensures the safety, security, and smooth operation of the building campus and its technology

• Serves as the primary liaison to the JCC Early Childhood Program and all building rentals

• Directly oversees all logistics for the High Holy Days and all major synagogue events

• Oversees building security operations and is the primary liaison with the Evanston Police Department

QUALIFICATIONS

• Highly accountable, results-oriented leader, with a passion for synagogue work

• Minimum five years experience managing the business/financial affairs of an organization with an annual operating budget of at least $1 million

• Previous experience in synagogue fundraising

• Dedicated team builder with the desire and skill to include and motivate others

• Strong knowledge and excellent judgment in financial and accounting matters, including financial planning and budgeting, accounting systems and controls, reporting and analysis

• Experience coordinating volunteer activities.

• Exceptional skills in project management, strategic planning and detail-oriented execution

• Exceptional communications skills as a forward thinker and planner

• Unquestionable integrity, reliability and credibility

• Understanding of Jewish rituals, customs, holidays and congregational relationships

• Ability to work flexible hours to accommodate the needs of the synagogue