Executive Director

Chief Executive Officer – The Jewish Federation of Princeton/Mercer/Bucks

Jewish Federation of Princeton Mercer Bucks

Job Title: Chief Executive Officer

Location: Mercer County, NJ

Role: Full‑time position with occasional travel and evening/weekend responsibilities as needed

Reports To: Board of Directors of the Federation

Compensation Package: Salary Range: $150,000–$200,000 (commensurate with experience)

Mission of the Federation

The mission of the Jewish Federation of Princeton Mercer Bucks is to preserve, secure and strengthen Jewish life and values in our community, the State of Israel and throughout the world.

Our mission is realized through grant allocations and programming that fall under our four Strategic Pillars:

• Unifying the local Jewish community;
• Caring for vulnerable Jews everywhere;
• Leading in times of crisis.

The CEO Opportunity

The Chief Executive Officer of the Jewish Federation of Princeton Mercer/Bucks serves as the organization’s chief executive, providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and meaningful fundraising while acting as a unifying presence for the greater Princeton Jewish community.

The CEO will lead the Federation’s continued growth by advancing its strategic vision, strengthening organizational capacity, and fostering a collaborative, mission‑driven culture. The CEO will work closely with the Board, community leaders, donors, and stakeholders to advance the mission of the Federation, and expand community impact through collaboration with local Jewish organizations. This role calls for an entrepreneurial, hands‑on leader who can build strong relationships, maximize resources, and position the Federation to meet the evolving needs of the community.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategic Planning

• Lead the Federation organization in terms of strategy, culture, and operations.
• Enhance existing structures and build processes for the organization.
• Lead the development and execution of the long‑term strategic plan for the Federation, ensuring alignment with our mission, values, and community needs.
• Inspire and motivate staff, board members, and volunteers to work collaboratively toward the goals of the Federation.
• Foster a culture of inclusivity, innovation, and growth within the organization and the broader Jewish community.
• Liaise with Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) to ensure alignment, cascade initiatives and priorities, and leverage resources.
• Oversee and implement the fundraising campaigns and initiatives for the Federation, ensuring the financial health and sustainability of the organization.
• Develop relationships with major donors, foundations, and corporations to secure financial support and raise the necessary funds to carry out programs and services.
• Ensure that the Federation operates within its budget and meets financial goals.
• Work with the Board and Finance Committee to develop and monitor the annual budget and provide regular financial reports to stakeholders.

Program Oversight & Community Engagement

• Provide oversight and support for the various programs and services of the Federation, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of the Jewish community.
• Act as the primary representative of the Federation, building and maintaining relationships with local Jewish organizations, synagogues, schools, and other stakeholders.
• Lead efforts to expand the reach and impact of the Federation within the community, focusing on programming to engage and illicit participation from all segments of the Jewish community.

Board & Governance

• Serve as a key advisor to the Board, providing strategic recommendations and regular updates on the operations and programs of the Federation.
• Work with the Board to ensure effective governance, including policy development, oversight, and the recruitment of new Board members.
• Assist the President in leading Board meetings, coordinating agendas, and preparing materials for board consideration.

Staff Management & Development

• Hire, mentor, and manage staff, fostering professional development and promoting a positive work environment.
• Oversee staff performance and ensure that the team has the resources and support needed to execute the mission of the Federation.
• Encourage staff collaboration, innovation, and dedication to the goals of the Federation.

Communication & Public Relations

• Serve as the public face of the Federation, representing the organization in the media, public forums, and community events.
• Oversee the marketing and communications team to create and implement a comprehensive communications strategy, including but not limited to social media, newsletters, and community outreach.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with other local, national, and international Jewish organizations and stakeholders.

Qualifications

Education

• A bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Jewish Studies, Public Administration, Business, or a related field.

Experience

• A minimum of 7‑10 years of senior‑level leadership experience in the nonprofit sector, ideally within the Jewish community or related organizations.
• Proven success in fundraising, donor relations, and financial management.
• Experience working with boards of directors, senior leadership teams, and diverse community stakeholders.
• Strong knowledge of Jewish culture, traditions, community dynamics and youth engagement.

Skills

• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong strategic thinking and decision‑making abilities.
• Ability to build relationships with individuals, groups, and organizations to advance the missions of the Federation.
• Proficiency in budget management, financial oversight, marketing, and organizational development.
• Comfort with public speaking and representing the Federation in high‑level meetings and events.

Personal Qualities

• Passion for Jewish communal life and a commitment to Jewish values and traditions.
• Integrity, professionalism, and the ability to build trust with diverse communities.
• Ability to think creatively and adapt to changing needs and circumstances.
• Comfort with ambiguity and leading through change.
• Strong work ethic.