Executive Director

University of Arizona Hillel

Salary Range: $115,000 – $130,000 (competitive within the Tucson nonprofit sector)
Benefits: Comprehensive package including 403(b) retirement plan, LTD, paid vacation/sick time, paid parental leave, relocation assistance, professional development, and 100% paid travel regionally and abroad (especially to Israel).

We know that no candidate will meet every single qualification listed, and we strongly encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every requirement. At UA Hillel, we value diverse perspectives and believe that a wide range of backgrounds, skills, and lived experiences enrich our community and our work. If you’re passionate about our mission and excited by this opportunity, we want to hear from you—your unique talents and insights could be exactly what we need to continue growing and thriving.

Who You Are & Position Overview

You are a dynamic, visionary leader with a passion for building inclusive, vibrant communities. You thrive on inspiring others, championing pluralism, and creating spaces where every student feels seen and empowered. With a proven track record in strategic planning, team development, and fundraising, you bring both entrepreneurial spirit and a collaborative approach to your work. You are deeply committed to fostering meaningful Jewish life, nurturing student leadership, and building bridges across diverse backgrounds. Your creativity, warmth, and strategic mindset make you a catalyst for growth and positive change—ready to lead the University of Arizona Hillel into its next chapter of impact and innovation.

As Executive Director, you will lead the charge in continuing and enhancing an inclusive, vibrant oasis for every Jewish student on campus. Reporting to the Board of Directors and supervising a dedicated professional team, you will inspire, strategize, and cultivate a welcoming space where students can explore, experience, and build meaningful Jewish lives during their collegiate journey. You will champion pluralism, foster connections across campus and the broader community, and ensure Hillel is a safe, empowering environment for all students.

What You’ll Do

Strategy & Vision

• Lead strategic planning with the Board, managing financial responsibilities within the approved budget.
• Inspire and organize pluralistic, diverse Jewish life on campus, expanding reach to students of all backgrounds and interests in tune with Hillel International standards.
• Foster connections with campus leadership and departments, religious organizations, the local Jewish community, and the International Hillel movement.

Fundraising & Financial Management

• Develop and implement a comprehensive annual development plan.
• Personally engage in donor solicitation, manage relationships with granting organizations, and explore innovative revenue streams for program growth.

Leadership & Team Development

• Mentor and develop a professional team that champions pluralism, inclusivity, and student leadership.
• Cultivate a positive, collaborative work environment and support staff in their personal and professional growth.
• Maintain strong, collaborative relationships with Board and committee members.

Stakeholder & External Relations

• Build and unify community, creating a culturally rich Jewish environment for students.
• Identify partnership opportunities and engage with Board members, prospective leaders, and campus organizations to enhance student engagement.

Student Engagement

• Establish a warm, welcoming community that promotes student leadership and personal growth.
• Collaborate with other religious organizations on campus to create inclusive programming.
• Provide individualized mentorship for students on their Jewish journey.
• Ensure Hillel is a safe space for all students, proactively addressing antisemitism and anti-Israel activities.
• Encourage an inclusive culture embracing all expressions of Jewish religious practice.

What You'll Bring

• Minimum 8 years of professional experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership role in a Jewish or secular nonprofit, higher education, or related organization.
• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Proven success in strategic planning, team management, fundraising, stakeholder relations, and inspiring pluralistic Jewish life.
• Exemplary executive leadership with strong visionary and strategic skills.
• Entrepreneurial spirit, willingness to take risks, and learn from experiences.
• Ability to create space for diverse perspectives and ensure all student voices are heard.
• Creative problem-solving and inspiring presence.
• Strong relationship-building skills and comfort working with diverse populations.
• Proactive communication and collaboration across offices and agencies.
• Expertise in leading conversations about Judaism and Israel in an approachable way.

Success In This Role Will Be Measured By

• Growth in student engagement and participation.
• Achievement of fundraising and development goals.
• Staff retention and professional growth.
• Positive feedback from students, staff, and stakeholders.

About the University of Arizona Hillel

UA Hillel is a cornerstone of Jewish life on campus, serving approximately 4,000 Jewish students with a variety of programs, trips, and internships. Affiliated with Hillel International, we enrich the lives of Jewish students and foster a lasting commitment to Jewish life, learning, and Israel.
Mission: To facilitate the development of a vibrant, diverse, meaningful, and empowered Jewish community at the University of Arizona.
Vision: Every Jewish student is inspired to make an enduring commitment to Jewish life.

About Tucson, Arizona

Arizona’s second-largest city, Tucson is a welcoming, diverse oasis in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, known for its beautiful mountain views, vibrant arts scene, and affordable cost of living. Residents enjoy over 350 days of sunshine each year, which provides ample opportunity for outdoor activities like hiking in the Catalina Mountains, exploring Sahuaro National Park, or biking along the 137 miles of car-free paths along The Loop. Tucson is also a foodie’s delight, with a culinary scene that earned it a designation as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy.

Tucson’s Jewish community is active and inclusive, with a range of organizations, synagogues, and cultural resources. The city is home to the Tucson Jewish Community Center, Jewish Philanthropies of Southern Arizona, the Tucson Hebrew Academy, and numerous congregations representing all streams of Jewish life. There are kosher food options, a Jewish Museum, and a variety of programs for all ages, making Tucson a great place to connect, celebrate, and engage in Jewish life.

About The University of Arizona

The University of Arizona is a leading public research university located in Tucson, renowned for its academic excellence, innovation, and vibrant campus life. Serving a diverse student body, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, and is recognized for its commitment to student success, research, and community engagement. The campus is home to a dynamic mix of cultural, academic, and social opportunities, making it an inspiring environment for students to learn, grow, and connect.

Athletics are a central part of campus life, with the Arizona Wildcats competing at the highest levels in NCAA Division I sports, including football, basketball, baseball, softball, and more. The university boasts a proud tradition of athletic achievement, with nationally ranked teams and a passionate fan base. The Wildcats’ spirited culture brings the campus and community together, making sporting events a highlight of the university experience.

For questions or to learn more about the role, contact:

Jennifer Sosnow, Director of Executive Talent, Hillel International
Email: jsosnow@hillel.org