Temple Israel (TI) is a vibrant and growing egalitarian Conservative Jewish congregation of more than 450 member households, serving Sharon and the South Area of Greater Boston. We are a warm, joyful, and inclusive community rooted in meaningful worship, lifelong learning, social action, and volunteerism. We are seeking an Executive Director to serve as the synagogue’s Chief Operating Officer and a key partner in sustaining and strengthening our community.

The Role

The Executive Director is the senior leader responsible for the financial, operational, facilities, administrative, and human resource functions of the synagogue. Reporting directly to, and partnering with, the Senior Rabbi, the Executive Director works in close partnership with clergy, lay leadership, and staff to translate vision into action and ensure the long-term spiritual and financial health of Temple Israel.

This is a highly visible role that blends strategic leadership with hands-on management. The Executive Director helps shape congregational culture, builds strong relationships with members, and ensures that day-to-day operations run smoothly, transparently, and professionally.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

• Partner with the Senior Rabbi, clergy, and Board of Trustees to advance the congregation’s strategic goals

• Serve as a trusted professional partner to lay leadership and committees

• Attend and support Board, Executive Committee, and congregational meetings

Congregational Relations

• Serve as an initial point of contact for prospective members

• Build strong relationships across the congregation and affiliated groups (Sisterhood, Brotherhood, Hazak, etc.)

• Respond thoughtfully to member questions and concerns, reinforcing a culture of warmth and inclusion

• Support volunteers in program planning and execution

Operations, Administration & Communications

• Oversee daily operations including administration, communications, and technology

• Ensure accurate and effective use of synagogue management software (ShulCloud) and other office systems

• Promote a positive and professional image of the synagogue internally and externally

Financial Management

• Oversee accounting operations, budgeting, payroll, and financial reporting

• Work closely with the Treasurer and VP of Finance on annual budgets and ongoing financial oversight

• Approve expenditures and implement commitments (dues) policies

Development & Fundraising

• Support and grow fundraising efforts including annual campaigns, events, High Holy Day appeals, endowment, and planned giving

• Manage donor relations and fundraising data with care and professionalism

• Serve as a staff partner to the Development Committee

Facilities & Property Management

• Ensure safe, secure, and well-maintained facilities

• Oversee maintenance staff and contractors

• Manage building use, rentals, and contracts

Early Childhood Education (Hertz Nursery School)

• Oversee Hertz Nursery School, ensuring alignment with the synagogue’s mission and financial sustainability

• Supervise and support the Nursery School Director(s)

• Partner with professional staff and lay leadership to integrate early childhood education into congregational life

• Strengthen relationships with Hertz families and pathways to ongoing synagogue engagement

Human Resources

• Supervise administrative and maintenance staff

• Lead hiring for non-clergy positions

• Support search committees for clergy and senior hires as needed

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is a warm, organized, and collaborative leader who combines strong operational and financial skills with emotional intelligence and community presence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred

• 5+ years of senior management or administrative experience (nonprofit or corporate)

• Strong background in operations, budgeting, financial reporting, and project management

• Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills

• Comfort working with clergy, staff, volunteers, and lay leadership

• Strong technology skills (Microsoft Office, databases, web-based communications; ShulCloud a plus)

• Experience using AI as a tool and digital tools to support operations and communications is a plus

• Familiarity with Conservative Jewish values, rituals, and synagogue life is a plus

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $100,000–$120,000, commensurate with experience

• Benefits include:

  • Paid vacation and sick time

  • Parental leave

  • Health insurance

  • Retirement plan with employer contribution

  • Preschool and Religious School tuition discount

  • Professional association dues and conference reimbursement

Why Temple Israel?

As the largest Conservative Synagogue South of Boston, Temple Israel is guided by the values of Sacred Community (Kehilah Kedusha), Inclusion (Kavod HaBriyot), Joy (Simcha), Jewish Peoplehood (K’lal Yisrael), Engagement (M’oravut), and Social Action (Tikkun Olam).

This is a rare opportunity to play a central leadership role in a thriving synagogue with a big heart, dedicated clergy, and an engaged membership.