Executive Director

JOB DESCRIPTION

TITLE: Executive Director

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

REPORTS TO: President of the Board of Directors

POSITIONS REPORTING TO THIS POSITION: Director of Education and Programming, Preschool Director, Office Manager, Communications and Facilities staff

LOCATION: 2920 Arlington Blvd, Arlington, VA

POSITION SUMMARY

Congregation Etz Hayim, an egalitarian Conservative synagogue of ~150 member households is hiring an Executive Director to serve as the administrative and operational leader of the synagogue. This role partners closely with the Rabbi, staff, and lay leadership to advance the synagogue’s mission, ensure smooth daily operations, and foster a warm, engaged, and inclusive community.

Working in close partnership with the Board officers, the Executive Director oversees facilities, finance, HR, membership, communications, and strategic initiatives, acting as the primary liaison among congregants, staff, vendors, and community partners.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Supervise, coach, and manage direct reports.
• Provide constructive and timely performance evaluations.
• Maintain personnel files and ensure compliance with employment guidelines.
• Recruit, interview, hire, and train new staff.
• Foster a positive culture of teamwork and accountability.

Membership Engagement & Community Building

• In partnership with the Vice President of Membership, support member recruitment, retention, and engagement.
• In partnership with staff and lay leaders, strengthen congregational participation by supporting the planning and implementation of programs, lifecycle events, and holiday experiences.

Operations & Administration

• Oversee day-to-day synagogue operations, office management, and administrative systems.
• With support from and in coordination with the Director of Education and Programming, manage synagogue calendar and scheduling of programs and events.
• Partner with Rabbi and lay leadership to develop policies and goals; implement policies in compliance with synagogue bylaws.
• Support and partner with the Board and Board committees.
• Support Preschool Director with administrative guidance.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Represent synagogue internally and externally in a professional manner.
• Identify opportunities for operational efficiencies.

Finance & Budget Management

• In partnership with the Treasurer and Finance Committee, support the development and management of the annual operating budget.
• Oversee accounting, financial reporting, invoice processing, dues and tuition billing and collection, and payroll.
• Ensure financial controls and compliance.
• Oversee grant administration.
• Support fundraising initiatives, annual campaigns, and grant opportunities.
• Coordinate with the VP Fundraising to identify opportunities for revenue enhancement.

Communications & Marketing

• Develop communication strategy and cadence, with input from staff and lay leaders.
• Provide direction and approval in the production of newsletters, email announcements, website content, ads, flyers, and event materials.
• Maintain synagogue branding and ensure consistent, clear messaging.

Facilities, Security & Vendor Management

• Ensure facilities are safe, welcoming, and functional by overseeing building maintenance, repairs, security protocols, cleaning, facility scheduling, and maintaining operational checklists.
• Coordinate with contractors, security personnel, and local law enforcement.
• Manage vendor relationships, contracts, and purchasing.

WHAT WE NEED YOU TO HAVE

• 7+ years of progressively responsible experience in nonprofit management, synagogue or Jewish communal administration, or a related field, including staff supervision and Board and volunteer leadership support.
• Experience developing and carrying out strategic plans with lay leadership, strong organizational and project management skills, including events, deadlines, and competing priorities, and the initiative to solve problems independently while knowing when to bring issues to lay leadership.
• Financial literacy and experience with budgeting, accounting, and billing.
• Understanding of facility operations, security, emergency preparedness, vendor contracts, and state and local regulations, including those for an early childhood program.
• Excellent organizational, administrative, leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with membership engagement and with overseeing communications and marketing, including newsletters, email, website, and social media.
• Sensitivity, ability to maintain confidentiality, and commitment to fostering a welcoming Jewish community.
• Understanding of HR procedures and compliance.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office software.

WHAT WE’D LIKE YOU TO HAVE

• Experience with synagogue software platforms (e.g., ShulCloud).
• Familiarity with Jewish practice, the Jewish calendar, and the norms of the Conservative movement.
• Experience with fundraising, annual campaigns, and grants.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Work is performed seated, in an office setting at a computer, and on foot, throughout the synagogue building and grounds.
• Work may be required outside of normal business hours, including monthly evening Board Meetings, occasional evening Committee meetings, and extended hours during the High Holiday season.
• Background check required.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid vacation and personal days
• Paid secular and Jewish holidays
• Professional development budget
• Congregational membership
• Preschool or Religious School tuition discount
• Life and disability insurance option
• Salary range: $85,000-$100,000

TO APPLY: Send cover letter and resume

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time, with or without notice.