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Job Description
Executive Director Congregation Beth Israel - 4.1 Bellingham, WA Job Details Full-time $82,000 - $95,000 a year 3 hours ago Benefits Paid time off Flexible schedule Qualifications Teamwork Volunteer management Operational management Master's degree Managing budgets in a finance role Cultural competency Bachelor's degree HR operations department management Senior leadership Full Job Description Position Overview Congregation Beth Israel (
CBI:
Bethisraelbellingham.org) seeks an energetic, thoughtful, and collaborative Executive Director to serve as its chief operating leader working alongside our clergy. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director holds primary responsibility for the day-to-day operational, financial, and administrative health of the synagogue. The ideal candidate will combine strong business acumen with deep emotional intelligence, bringing a "can-do" attitude to building a highly functional, mission-driven, and sacred workplace environment. Key Responsibilities 1. Financial Stewardship & Sustainability Oversee day-to-day financial operations and working within our budget tasks include, bookkeeping oversight, payroll, receivables, vendor payments, and membership billing. Partner with the Treasurer and Finance Committee to develop, coordinate, and monitor the annual budget, tracking performance metrics and ensuring fiscal sustainability. Lead revenue-generation efforts, including donor cultivation, strategic fundraising initiatives, and grant writing. Manage financial aspects of risk management, including regular insurance reviews, contract negotiations, and asset protection. 2. Personnel Management and Volunteer Coordination Supervise, mentor, and evaluate administrative, Kesher and facilities staff, fostering a positive, collaborative, and accountable workplace culture. Coordinate, recruit, and recognize volunteers, aligning their efforts with committee goals and synagogue needs. Implement and update personnel practices, including HR compliance, regular performance evaluations, job training, and constructive conflict management. 3. Operations, Facilities & Security Oversee the maintenance, custodial care, and approved capital improvements of the synagogue building and grounds. Serve as the principal contact for all facility vendors, contractors, and service providers. Along with our Safety and Security committee, coordinate and regularly review security protocols, building access, and emergency preparedness in conjunction with local law enforcement and lay leadership. Provide logistical and operational oversight for rentals, lifecycle events, holiday celebrations, and special programs. 4. Leadership & Strategy Serve as an active, ex-officio partner to the Board of Directors. Report on operations, inform leadership of critical issues, and systematically implement board decisions. Provide committee oversight and support lay leaders with timely data, advice, and strategic direction. Act as a key chief operating leader alongside clergy to ensure the synagogue functions as a healthy, mission-driven institution. 5. Membership & Engagement Infrastructure Develop and manage the administrative infrastructure required for strong congregational engagement, recruitment, and retention. Manage the synagogue's CRM/database to ensure high data integrity, streamlined communications, and efficient member communication. Support the operational, non-pedagogic needs of the Religious School and coordinate non-pastoral congregational support systems. 6. Communications & External Relations Oversee the congregation's communication strategies, ensuring professional standards across all publications (e.g., Shul Shofar , Weekly Timbrel ), social media platforms, and website updates. Advance the synagogue's visibility, reputation, and inclusion efforts within the broader community.
Required Qualifications Education:
Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree in Non-Profit Management, Business Administration, or a related field is desirable.
Experience:
Minimum of 5 years of relevant executive leadership experience, preferably within a synagogue, Jewish communal organization, or non-profit entity.
Cultural Competence:
Deep familiarity with Jewish ritual, history, traditions, and customs..
Operational Acumen:
Proven leadership experience across finance/budgeting, facilities management, human resources, and community fundraising.
Communication Skills:
Exceptional verbal, written, and diplomatic interpersonal communication skills; ability to navigate a diverse stakeholder community with emotional intelligence.
Schedule Flexibility:
Willingness and ability to work a non-traditional schedule, including evenings, weekends, and high holiday periods as operational needs dictate.
