Executive Director

SUMMARY

The Jewish Federation of Greater Fairfield County, headquartered in Bridgeport, CT is seeking a dynamic leader who will guide the organization from strength to strength. This role requires a visionary leader who can balance strategic oversight with tactical execution, foster a culture of philanthropy, and collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.

As a respected and articulate spokesperson for the Jewish community, the Federation’s Executive Director will consistently demonstrate a passion for and commitment to Jewish life, Jewish values, Israel, and the mission and work of Federation. The Executive Director should be a strategic, out-of-the-box thinker who can build trusted and meaningful partnerships with all sectors of the community to ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of the organization.

The Executive Director reports to the Board Chair and is accountable to the Executive Committee and the Board. S/he will manage and empower a staff that currently consists of both full-time and part-time employees. With a proven track record of successful fundraising, s/he will be responsible for managing and growing the Federation’s annual campaign and maximizing fundraising opportunities.

A strong and organized leader, the Executive Director will work with the professional staff, Executive Committee, and the Board of Directors. Ongoing responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Financial Management: Overseeing all financial activities including fundraising and donor stewardship, annual budgeting, monthly financial reporting, payments, and vendor relationships.

• Staff Management: Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire teams, board members, and volunteers in achieving ambitious fundraising goals. Providing leadership and direction for the office team to ensure a positive employee experience and to produce quality results. Working in collaboration with professional staff to ensure that all administrative and program needs are met. Overseeing a friendly business office where the questions and concerns of supporters/members and others are addressed positively, professionally and promptly.

• Communication and Public Relations: Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate a compelling case for support.

• Overseeing implementation of the Federation’s marketing and communication plan, including the weekly newsletter, website, social media, as well as community advertising.

• Community Engagement: Represent Federation to the community, engage new and prospective volunteers, and cultivate future leaders and partners.

• Technology Oversight/Implementation: Overseeing the IT systems, including the computer network, back-end data management, and phone systems. Maximizing staff productivity through the effective use of technology.

• Foundation: The Executive Director also serves as the Executive Director of the Jewish Foundation which holds assets of approximately $4 million, including a combination of institutional and donor advised charitable funds. The Foundation has a small Board of Directors with financial expertise who works together with the investment management company to ensure appropriate management of funds and investor communication.

The ideal candidate will have knowledge of and experience in fundraising, finance, operations management, technology, and personnel management. Specific qualifications include:

· Minimum of a Bachelors degree

· 3+ years experience in a management role with demonstrated results

· Ability to relate to, serve the needs of, and effectively connect with clergy, community leaders, donors, and staff

· Ability to engage volunteers and delegate responsibilities effectively

· Ability to operate with a high level of personal responsibility and good judgment

· Demonstrates great attention to detail and organizational skills

· Proven ability to set and achieve goals

· Proficient understanding and use of technology including Microsoft Office suite. Knowledge of fundraising software and Constant Contact preferred.

· Excellent verbal and written communicator, can speak compellingly and confidently

· Background with Jewish organizations, knowledgeable about Jewish rituals and customs

COMPENSATION

A competitive compensation package in the range of $125,000- $145,000 is available for the successful candidate.

ORGANIZATION BACKGROUND

The Jewish Federation of Greater Fairfield County was created in 2015 with the merger of the UJA/Federation of Westport-Weston-Wilton-Norwalk (WWWN) and the Jewish Center for Community Services (JCCS) of Eastern Fairfield County. At the time, this merger included 12 towns and 18 religious institutions representing a broad range of denominations. Since then, several additional towns have been integrated into our catchment area.

Throughout the Greater Fairfield County community, the Federation supports social services, education, and many other segments of the community as well as Jewish causes around the world. The Federation community is home to a wide variety of religious congregations, including Reform, Conservative, Orthodox, Humanistic Judaism, and Chabad. Clergy and lay leadership work well together with a shared interest in advancing Jewish life in the area. Importantly, the large number of unaffiliated Jews in our community present great opportunities for engagement. With a deeply committed donor and volunteer base, Greater Fairfield County offers a strong Jewish infrastructure with immense opportunity for growth.

COMMUNITY INFORMATION

Fairfield County, Connecticut, offers a unique blend of coastal New England charm and the modern offerings of a thriving urban-suburban setting. Its quality of life is reflected in its top-tier schools and universities, strong economy, diverse culture, and natural beauty. From this southwestern corner of Connecticut, Fairfield County is highly desirable due to its proximity to New York and New Haven providing enormous job opportunities and a rich cultural palette.