About this opportunity
SAJ Judaism That Stands for All lists this Executive Director opportunity in new york, New York. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
SAJ is the founding congregation of the Reconstructionist movement and a vibrant community on the Upper West Side of New York City. Ever since SAJ introduced America’s first Bat Mitzvah in 1922, it has been reconstructing Judaism, questioning tradition, and expanding its boundaries to ensure that Torah remains relevant, engaging, and welcoming to all. Our 260+ diverse households seek various entry points into Jewish life, including learning, social justice, spiritual exploration, and community engagement.
Position Summary
The Executive Director is the senior administrative leader working to meet the needs of the clergy and congregation: overseeing synagogue operations; managing finances in partnership with the Treasurer; supervising staff; and managing a 100+-year-old building, so that the clergy and lay leadership can focus on vision, community, and spiritual life. The successful candidate has strong management, organizational, team‑building, and communication skills, a collaborative mindset, fiscal stewardship experience, a track record of innovative problem‑solving, and a commitment to SAJ values. The Executive Director is expected to be on‑site four days a week, at Shabbat programming at least once a month, available for evening meetings, and present at major community holidays and events.
Key Responsibilities
1. Administrative and Operational Leadership
Oversee day‑to‑day operations of the synagogue
Ensure smooth functioning of office systems, calendars, internal processes, and communication flows
Supervise administrative staff and, potentially, building staff
Maintain and improve standard operating procedures
Implement staff training, development, and mid‑ and year‑end evaluations
Supervise staff responsible for programs, events, holidays, and lifecycle logistics
Maintain and develop staff and congregational policies and procedures
2. Fiscal Management
Oversee annual budgeting process
Manage dues and financial aid processes in partnership with the Treasurer
Identify opportunities for reducing costs and increasing revenue
Track financials and provide quarterly and annual reports to lay leadership
Manage accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and financial systems in partnership with the bookkeeper
Work with the Board and clergy to create appropriate fundraising strategies and goals, and execute the associated activities
Implement and support fundraising campaigns and apply for grants to support SAJ’s mission and programming
Participate in the stewardship of existing or new donors
3. Facilities and Building Management
Develop and implement building‑related protocols and manage deadlines
Plan and manage capital projects
Oversee building maintenance
Oversee security and safety issues, including interfacing with the NYPD and private security company
Ensure compliance with NYC building regulations
Work with lay leaders on security grants and grant implementation
Review and approve building‑related invoices and bidding processes
Liaise with the primary tenant and provide management oversight for all rentals
4. Membership and Community Interface
Build relationships and act as an ambassador for SAJ
Partner with clergy and lay leaders to attract and retain members, including strategic visioning for short‑ and long‑term growth
Work with clergy and lay leaders to engage and support members
Oversee membership administration
5. Board and Governance Support
Work closely with the Board Chair and Executive Committee
Prepare materials and analytics for Board meetings
Attend and report at twice‑monthly Executive Committee meetings
Attend and report at 6‑8 Board meetings annually
6. Tech and Communications
Serve as a leader for technology adoption and modernization
Oversee the administration of ShulCloud, office software, website, and security systems
Supervise and/or execute communications (e.g., newsletters, announcements, website updates, social media, calendar)
Set and systematize communications policies, guidelines, and strategies
Qualifications
At least 5 years of relevant experience, including a track record of managing organizational operations and supervising staff and/or volunteers
Demonstrated ability to manage financial resources
Success in managing a multi‑faced workload and problem‑solving while maintaining positive relationships
Proven ability to work effectively and positively in a high‑energy, fast‑paced environment
Familiarity with the rhythm of Jewish life, including Shabbat, Holidays, and life‑cycle observances
The ideal candidate is:
A highly accountable, detail‑oriented professional
Warm, approachable, skilled in people management and community‑facing work
A collaborative partner to clergy and lay leadership
Comfortable with a highly diverse membership, including race, gender, sexuality, ethnicity, class, ability, and age
Versed in modern technology, including tools for workflow, communication, and organizational efficiency
Adaptable, calm under pressure, and effective in a crisis
Compensation range: $120,000 - $135,000
Benefits package includes: Medical insurance, parental leave, and a generous vacation policy
SAJ – Judaism That Stands for All is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
Interested applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to: Applications are being reviewed on a rolling basis. The ideal expected start date is February 9, 2026, however we are open to discussing a different start date.
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Worksite address
new york, NY, 10261, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.