Congregation Shearith Israel

Chief Operating Officer/Executive Director

Introduction
Congregation Shearith Israel (CSI), a United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ) affiliated congregation located in Dallas, TX, is a vibrant, egalitarian and inclusive community of 1050+ family members. Founded over 142 years ago, CSI is one of the largest synagogues in the Southwest with a thriving influx of families and individuals adding to our long standing and multigenerational membership base. With our members serving in executive and lay positions in Jewish organizations throughout Dallas, statewide and nationally, CSI has a notable reputation of philanthropy, community service and volunteerism. Our dynamic and creative clergy team are relational and committed to supporting CSI members through spiritual growth and education while strengthening our entire community. The clergy, along with our talented staff, transform every interaction to be engaging, fulfilling and meaningful. From uplifting spiritual services and stimulating programmatic events to the warmth and enthusiasm of children in the halls of the religious school, CSI embodies the spirit of family and connection through our mission: Enrich Your Life, Elevate Your Soul and Embrace Your Judaism.

Position Overview
Congregation Shearith Israel (CSI) seeks an exceptional, mission driven, and visionary leader who excels at operational excellence, financial stewardship and team leadership to serve as our Chief Operating Officer (COO). Reporting directly to the President of the Board of Directors, the COO will work in collaboration with clergy, staff, lay leaders and/or committees on the day-to-day management of the synagogue’s infrastructure, financial systems, facility operations and personnel.

Core Responsibilities
Administration, Operations and Strategy
• Oversee planning and execution of synagogue goals, policies and procedures
• Provide clarity, prioritization and direction for staff, membership, and committees
• Actively participate in and monitor executive and strategic planning initiatives, representing the interests and capabilities of CSI’s staff
• Oversee and effectively manage internal operating and software systems, including agreements, utilization, optimization, and vendor relationships
• Review and execute contracts on behalf of the synagogue
• Attend CSI Board of Director and CSI Foundation meetings and ensure administrative support

Financial Oversight
• Monitor and oversee the accounting staff and all aspects of financial reporting and accounting processes including account receivable and account payable, and monthly financial and variance reports
• Lead the annual budget process and ensure departmental accountability
• Supervise the combined annual audit for the synagogue and the CSI Foundation, including contracting and coordinating with external auditors, working with accounting staff, and reviewing all draft and final reports

People, Culture and Partnerships
• Direct and motivate staff leadership, overseeing their individual effectiveness, growth, and development
• Actively promote and demonstrate a culture of professional respect, accountability, teamwork, and collaboration
• Cultivate a collaborative and trusting working alliance with the Senior Rabbinic team, broader clergy team, Officers and Board
• Maintain effective working relationships with Jewish agencies, leaders of other local faith communities, vendors, bankers, brokers, and civic leaders
• Oversee external contracted staff, including maintenance, security, and the kitchen manager
• Procure and oversee all necessary commercial insurance and employee benefit programs
• Ensure compliance with federal and state employment laws, and organizational policies

Education and Program Delivery
• Ensure appropriate facilities and support for Adult and Youth/Religious Education Programs
• Oversee the development and delivery of all internal and external communications, including weekly emails, publicity, notifications, website, newsletters and magazines

Membership and Development
• Oversee the direction and development of membership program, recordkeeping, retention and engagement of members
• Maintain confidentiality when assisting members in financial or sensitive matters
• Work closely on all fundraising efforts of the synagogue and Foundation
• Cultivate positive relationships with donors, identifying development opportunities and providing relationship stewardship
• Support ongoing committee and affinity group activities

Grounds, Safety and Security Management
• Lead building and facilities management, including planning, development and oversight of construction activities
• Oversee the coordination, care and use of the building and grounds, including calendaring, events, facility rentals, routine maintenance, repairs, and long-term planning
• Lead all security efforts related to building, school, and personal safety including working with local agencies on same

Qualifications, Experience, Skills
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in finance, business administration or non-profit management required
• 5+ years of relevant experience of business leadership and management in a dynamic and complex environment required
• Strong understanding of GAAP and fund accounting for non-profit organizations required
• Demonstrate responsibility for business finance and/or accounting operations
• Demonstrate success overseeing complex facilities management, construction, safety and security
• Exceptional organizational and project management skills
• Superior verbal and written communication skills
• Critical thinker, resourceful problem solver with solution-oriented skills
• Demonstrated success in building, mentoring, leading and managing teams in a warm and unifying environment
• Strong IT and computer skills, including ability to understand and implement technology to support operations
• Experience in fundraising for non-profits preferred
• Knowledge and understanding of Jewish values, culture, customs strongly preferred