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Executive Director, SAJ – Judaism That Stands For All
SAJ seeks a mission-aligned Executive Director (ED) to lead the administrative, operational, and technological infrastructure that supports our clergy, staff, and congregants. The ED carries forward the vision of the Rabbi and the Board of Trustees into the operations of the synagogue.
About SAJ
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 synagogue's senior administrative leader, meeting 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. 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 a public-facing role; a regular, visible and warm presence within the community. This is primarily an on-site position that combines regular business hours with Shabbat mornings, evenings, and holidays.
Summary of Key Responsibilities
• The ED ensures the smooth functioning of office systems, calendars, internal processes, and communication flows, supervising staff and fostering collaboration among skilled team members across both routine events and special projects.
• The ED is responsible for all elements of revenue cycle management, including budgeting, dues, payroll and expenses, and assures that SAJ's physical plant supports the needs of the SAJ community.
• The ED works closely with the Board Chair and Executive Committee, builds relationships with congregants, and acts as an ambassador for SAJ with outside entities.