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Community Relations & Public Affairs Manager | Frontline Professional
Position Summary
The Jewish Federation of Ventura County seeks a strategic, relationship-driven professional to lead its community relations, public affairs, civic engagement, and antisemitism response efforts.
Serving as a key external representative of the Federation, this professional will build and strengthen relationships with government officials, faith leaders, educational institutions, civic organizations, business leaders, and community stakeholders. The role is responsible for helping the Federation address antisemitism, strengthen community partnerships, engage lay leaders, and advance the Federation's role as a trusted voice within the broader community.
This position requires exceptional judgment, strong communication skills, and the ability to navigate complex and evolving community issues while fostering collaboration across diverse stakeholders.
This hybrid position requires in-person work in our Ventura office at least two days per week , along with attendance at community meetings and events as needed. National travel is also expected. The professional will receive resources and support from the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) and participate in a cohort of peers serving in similar roles at other Federations, providing opportunities for collaboration, shared learning, and professional development.
We are actively recruiting to fill this position as soon as possible , with a preferred start date of November 2, 2026. Availability to attend the Jewish Federations of North America's General Assembly in Washington, D.C., November 8–10, is preferred but is not a condition of employment.
To apply, please submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references. Include your earliest available start date in your cover letter.
Key Responsibilities
• Serve as a primary representative of the Federation to external stakeholders and community partners.
• Build and maintain relationships with civic leaders, faith communities, nonprofit partners, and community organizations.
• Coordinate Federation responses to incidents of antisemitism and related community concerns.
• Build and maintain relationships with local and state elected officials and public agencies.
• Support advocacy efforts on issues of concern to the Federation and the broader community.
• Develop relationships with K-12 schools, higher education institutions, and educational leaders.
• Support efforts to address antisemitism and bias in educational settings.
• Foster meaningful relationships with faith-based, ethnic, and cultural organizations.
• Partner with Federation volunteers and lay leaders involved in public affairs and community relations work.
Desired Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree required.
• Experience in community relations, public affairs, government relations, advocacy, education, communications, nonprofit leadership, or a related field.
• Exceptional interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Demonstrated ability to navigate sensitive and complex issues with professionalism and sound judgment.
• Experience working with diverse stakeholders and community partners.
Core Competencies
• Strategic Advocacy & Public Affairs
• Coalition Building & Relationship Management
• Community Engagement
• Crisis Response & Issue Management
• Communications & Public Representation
• Lay/Professional Partnerships
• Policy & Community Awareness
• Understanding of Jewish communal life, contemporary antisemitism, and issues affecting Jewish communities
Success Outcomes in Year 1
• Establish strong relationships with key civic, educational, faith, and governmental partners.
• Develop a clear understanding of the local community's opportunities and challenges.
• Become a trusted resource for Federation leadership and community stakeholders.
• Strengthen readiness and response capacity related to antisemitism and community concerns.
• Increase engagement with lay leaders and external partners.
• Advance proactive community building and coalition efforts.