Chief Executive Officer – Shalom Austin

Chief Executive Officer – Shalom Austin 

Shalom Austin 

Shalom Austin is the hub of Jewish life in Central Texas, enhancing the quality of Jewish life in the greater Austin area and around the world through philanthropy, education, engagement, social service, culture, spirituality, and wellness. As a trusted community convener and strategic partner, Shalom Austin fosters meaningful Jewish connection, strengthens relationships with Israel and world Jewry, and empowers individuals and organizations across Jewish Austin. 

Core Mission: Building a vibrant Jewish community throughout Greater Austin, connected to Jewish life in Israel and the world. 

Vision: Inspiring Jewish journeys. 

Values: Kehillah (community building), Limmud (learning), Tikkun Olam (repairing the world), Tzedakah (justice through giving), and K’lal Yisrael (global unity of the Jewish people). 

Shalom Austin is a multi-entity organization with an annual operating budget of approximately $28 million, a staff of nearly 400 employees (excluding seasonal staff), and an annual community campaign of approximately $3.7 million. Through its integrated campus and federated structure, Shalom Austin brings together four core entities – the Jewish Federation, Dell Jewish Community Center (JCC), Jewish Family Service (JFS), and Jewish Foundation – to address communal needs across the life span while working collaboratively with congregations, schools, and community organizations. 

The Greater Austin area is known for its energetic culture, economic dynamism, innovative spirit, welcoming environment, and warm climate – all of which contribute to a thriving community and meaningful Jewish experiences. 

The Opportunity 

Shalom Austin seeks a dynamic, visionary, and values-driven Chief Executive Officer to lead one of North America’s most integrated Jewish community organizations. Reporting to the Board of Directors and partnering closely with senior volunteer and lay leadership, the CEO will guide Shalom Austin into its next chapter of growth, innovation, and impact. 

The CEO will champion Shalom Austin’s mission to build a vibrant, inclusive Jewish community locally and globally, providing strategic leadership across its integrated structure, including the Jewish Federation, Dell Jewish Community Center, Jewish Family Service, and Jewish Foundation. This role offers a rare opportunity to shape the future of Jewish life in a rapidly growing and diverse metropolitan area through strategic alignment, operational excellence, financial sustainability, philanthropic growth, and transformative community engagement. 

Core CEO Competencies 

• Proven executive leadership in complex, community-focused, multi-program organizations 

• Strategic vision paired with the ability to inspire alignment and action 

• Exceptional philanthropic leadership, including major gift and campaign success 

• Deep expertise in staff development, organizational culture, and talent management 

• Strong community relations and partnership-building skills across diverse stakeholders 

• Outstanding communication, relationship-building, and public-facing abilities 

• A deep understanding of, and commitment to, Jewish life, peoplehood, and Israel 

The CEO Will: 

• Articulate and build consensus around a compelling vision for Jewish community life in Greater Austin 

• Lead collaborative planning, resource development, and high‑quality program delivery across all organizational branches 

• Steward and solicit major donors, strengthening annual campaign results and long‑term endowments 

• Cultivate strategic partnerships within the Jewish ecosystem and broader civic community 
• Inspire innovation while honoring Shalom Austin’s traditions, values, and community legacy 

Key Responsibilities 

Strategic & Community Leadership 

• Articulate and build broad consensus around a compelling vision for Jewish community life in Greater Austin, grounded in Jewish values and community needs 

• Partner with the Board, lay leadership, and professional team to develop and implement long-term strategy across Shalom Austin’s integrated structure  

• Serve as the public figure and chief ambassador of Shalom Austin locally, nationally, and globally 

• Strengthen connections between Austin’s Jewish community, Israel, and world Jewry 

• Champion inclusive engagement across generations, identities, and levels of Jewish involvement 

• Foster leadership development, meaningful community participation, and volunteerism 

• Inspire innovation while honoring Shalom Austin’s traditions, values, and community legacy 

Philanthropy & Resource Development 

• Lead a comprehensive fundraising and resource development strategy, including annual campaign, capital, major gifts, endowment growth, and institutional support 

• Personally steward key donor relationships while empowering lay leadership in philanthropic efforts 

• Communicate organizational impact through compelling storytelling, data, and personalized stewardship 

• Cultivate strategic partnerships within the Jewish ecosystem and broader civic community 

• Foster a culture of generosity and shared responsibility to sustain Jewish life for future generations 

Organizational & Operational Leadership 

• Lead, support, and inspire senior professional staff, fostering collaboration, accountability, and excellence 

• Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and long-term fiscal sustainability in partnership with the Board 

• Ensure strong governance, policy compliance, financial oversight, and risk management 

• Align programs, services, and resources across all organizational branches  

• Model and promote a workplace culture rooted in inclusion, care, transparency, and community spirit 

Qualifications  

• Bachelor’s Degree required; advanced degree in a related field preferred. 

• Extensive management and leadership experience in nonprofit or comparable settings. 

• Proven track record of successful fundraising and donor cultivation. 

• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to build consensus and collaborate effectively. 

Compensation Package 

Base Salary Range: $300,000 - $350,000  

Shalom Austin offers a robust benefits package, including medical coverage, retirement support, generous PTO, numerous discounts, and professional development opportunities. Shalom Austin is proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion.