Position Summary
The Executive Director serves as the chief administrative and operational leader of Congregation Mishkan Or, responsible for the effective day-to-day management of the organization and execution of the strategic vision established by the Board of Directors.
Working in close partnership with clergy, lay leadership, and staff, the Executive Director oversees all business operations, including finance, human resources, facilities, membership, communications, and the congregation’s school and cemetery.
This role requires a collaborative, mission-driven leader who can balance strategic execution with operational excellence while fostering a strong and welcoming community.
Key Responsibilities:
Operations & Administration
- Oversee the day-to-day operations of Congregation Mishkan Or, including administrative functions, facilities, security, and technology
- Partner closely with clergy leadership, including the Senior Rabbi, to align operational and organizational priorities
- Provide leadership and oversight of administrative, program, and facilities staff
- Ensure effective internal communications, systems, processes, and workflows that support efficiency and service delivery
- Oversee management of the physical campus, ensuring a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for all
- Oversee operations of the school, cemetery, and related programs and partnerships
Strategic Leadership & Governance
- Implement the strategic plan in partnership with the Board and clergy, ensuring alignment across all operational and program areas
- Serve as a key liaison to the Board of Directors, preparing reports, supporting governance practices, and advising on organizational health and priorities
- Foster a collaborative, respectful, and mission-driven culture grounded in Jewish values and community engagement
Financial Management
- Lead all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and fiscal oversight
- Partner with finance staff and Board committees to ensure financial transparency, accountability, and long-term sustainability
- Monitor revenue streams, including dues, tuition, and fundraising, and identify opportunities for financial growth
Development & Membership
- Partner with clergy and lay leaders to develop and execute fundraising strategies, campaigns, and donor engagement initiatives
- Support membership growth, retention, and engagement strategies across all lifecycle stages
- Build and maintain strong relationships with congregants, donors, and the broader community
Human Resources & Staff Leadership
- Recruit, develop, and retain high-performing staff while fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and professional growth
- Establish performance management processes, including goal setting, coaching, and evaluation
Community Relations & Communications
- Serve as a visible and accessible leader within the congregation and the broader Jewish community
- Oversee internal and external communications, ensuring consistency, clarity, and alignment with the organization’s mission
- Represent the organization in community partnerships and public-facing initiatives
Facilities, Risk & Compliance
- Oversee maintenance, capital improvements, and vendor relationships for all facilities
- Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and safety standards
- Manage risk, insurance, and security planning for the campus, programs, and events
Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree (MBA, Nonprofit Management, or related field) preferred
- 5–10+ years of senior leadership experience, preferably within a nonprofit, synagogue, or community-based organization
- Demonstrated experience in financial management, operations, and staff leadership
- Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities
- Strong project management, problem-solving, and organizational skills
- Knowledge of Jewish customs, traditions, and congregational life preferred
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is a collaborative and strategic leader who is passionate about Jewish communal life and nonprofit leadership. This individual brings strong operational and financial acumen, sound judgment, and the ability to engage diverse stakeholders while driving the organization forward with clarity and purpose.
Work Environment & Expectations
- Active participation in temple life, including evenings, weekends, and key events
- Onsite leadership presence required
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic, community-centered environment
Company Description
Congregation Mishkan Or, a Reform Jewish temple in Beachwood, Ohio—meaning “Dwelling Place of Light”—is a vibrant community of diverse backgrounds and traditions, characterized by warmth and a deep commitment to Jewish life across all generations.
With approximately 1,800 households, Mishkan Or offers a wide range of programming, lifelong Jewish learning opportunities, outreach and volunteerism, meaningful worship, and engagement with Torah and social action.
We are a community that values our strong connections to one another, to Israel, and to the global Jewish community.
