Chief Operating Officer

Job description

Each generation of Jews has the blessing and the responsibility of doing its part to ensure the future of our people. The Milwaukee Jewish Federation represents our community's collective commitment to this future. We nurture and sustain a vibrant Jewish community through financial resource development, outreach and engagement, and community planning. Together, we go from

Organization

The Milwaukee Jewish Federation (MJF) is a cornerstone of the Jewish community, leading philanthropic efforts and representing the voice of the Jewish community in greater Milwaukee and Wisconsin. MJF raises more than $20 million annually and manages more than $200 million in assets through the Jewish Community Foundation, supporting organizations and initiatives locally, statewide and around the world. From security to antisemitism to Jewish life and education, MJF is responsible for taking care of the most important issues facing the Jewish community at any given moment.

Position Overview

The Milwaukee Jewish Federation is seeking a Chief Operating Officer (COO) to join its team during a pivotal moment of change and growth. This position will serve as the internal partner to the CEO, collaborating closely to develop and implement organizational strategies that align with the mission and priorities. In this role, you will oversee the daily operations of the Federation, ensuring that all functions run smoothly and effectively. You will be responsible for supervising senior staff, managing financial and operational performance, mitigating risk and driving initiatives that enhance productivity and outcomes.

Core Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

Partner with the CEO to develop organizational strategies that align with mission and vision

Translate strategic vision into operational plans, objectives, and measurable outcomes

Monitor and evaluate operational performance, making data‑driven decisions to enhance productivity and outcomes

Drive operational excellence and continuous improvement across all functions of the organization, ensuring effective systems and processes are in place to support the organization’s activities and goals

Identify and mitigate operational risks to ensure the safety and security of the Federation's assets and reputation

Departmental Oversight

Finance & Administration: In partnership with the CFO, ensure sound financial planning, reporting, risk management and compliance

Real Estate, Properties and Facilities: Provide overall direction for the management of all Federation‑owned properties

Management Information Systems: Guide IT & data strategy to ensure secure and efficient systems and platforms that support all areas of operations in effectively using data and technology to achieve their goals

Human Resources: Guide HR strategy to ensure alignment of people practices and resources with strategic and operational goals

Other departmental oversight TBD (e.g., Wisconsin Jewish Security Network, other programmatic areas)

Strategic Initiatives

Lead the execution of strategic initiatives and key organizational priorities, including strategic plan and CRM transition

Oversee cross‑functional coordination to ensure alignment across departments and programs

Board & Community Engagement

Serve as a liaison to select board committees (e.g., Finance, Operations, Audit)

Support lay‑professional partnerships and provide operational insight for governance decisions

Represent the Federation in community forums and with partner agencies as needed

Qualifications & Experience

Education and/or Experience

Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree (MBA, MPA, JD, etc.) preferred

Minimum of ten years of experience of progressively responsible senior leadership roles in a business or public service organization, government, or nongovernmental organization; nonprofit leadership experience a plus

Proven experience managing complex operations, staff, and budgets

Strong financial acumen

Strong strategic thinking, project management, and organizational development skills

Proven ability to translate operational issues and strategies, actionable plans, including process change and technology solutions

Excellent interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills

Familiarity with real estate/properties management preferred

Familiarity with Jewish culture, values, and community dynamics a plus

Competencies & Attributes

Empowering leadership: Guiding, consultative approach, leading leaders, assertive, self‑assured, diplomatic, respected, courageous, decisive

Cross‑functional management: Streamlines internal processes, aligns different business lines, facilitates cross‑departmental initiatives, ability to lead diverse teams, change management, problem‑solving leadership, decision‑making propensity, establishes clear priorities

Operational excellence: Business acumen, implements strategic plan, creates systems, departmental oversight, financial/budgetary oversight, human resources, real estate/property management, compliance oversight, improves efficiencies

Interpersonal: Ability to connect with staff, strong interpersonal skills, listens and assesses the situation, creates trust, effective communicator at all organizational levels and with community partners, builds a strong culture for staff, fosters an internal environment that values collaboration, innovation, and positive organizational culture

Compensation and Location

Compensation starts at $175,000 and includes generous time off and a competitive benefits package. The position is based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Worksite address

milwaukee, WI, 53244, US

Who can apply

Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.