Community Relations Director

Full-time, in-person | Jewish Federation of Madison

Summary

The Jewish Federation of Madison (JFM) seeks a creative, dynamic Community Relations Director to lead our antisemitism response and advocacy efforts, build strong civic and interfaith partnerships, and expand opportunities for education and community engagement.

While employed by the JFM, this position is additionally supported by the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) and includes specialized professional training, professional development, and participation in a national cohort of community-relations professionals.

This is an opportunity to strengthen JFM's community relations work, deepen relationships across Madison and Dane County, and help shape how the Federation responds to emerging challenges and opportunities. The Director will build on existing partnerships while developing new relationships and initiatives that support the Jewish community and strengthen its connections with the broader community.

We are looking for someone with experience in government and public affairs, advocacy, education, community relations, or a related field, as well as someone with a strong understanding of contemporary antisemitism, issues affecting Jewish communities, and Israel Advocacy. The successful candidate will be an excellent communicator and relationship-builder who can work independently, exercise sound judgment, and advocate firmly and credibly while navigating complex and sensitive issues with diplomacy.

The Jewish Federation of Madison is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse workplace. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, or other protected status.

Position Overview

Working closely with the JFM CEO, Community Relations Committee (CRC), Wisconsin Jewish Conference, and other professional and lay leaders, the Community Relations Director will lead strategy and implementation across two interconnected areas: antisemitism response and advocacy, and community relations and grassroots civic engagement.

The Director will serve as a primary external representative of JFM with government officials, schools and universities, interfaith partners, law enforcement, civic and business leaders, and other community organizations. The position will also serve as JFM’s liaison with the Wisconsin Jewish Security Network (WJSN) and other Jewish communal partners on security-related coordination.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as a primary local point of contact on antisemitism, anti-Zionism, and anti-Israel activity affecting Jewish individuals and institutions.
• Monitor and track local and statewide antisemitic incidents and emerging community trends. Maintain appropriate incident tracking, follow-up, and reporting to meet requirements associated with JFNA funding
• Support individuals, families, schools, and Jewish institutions navigating incidents of antisemitism.
• Provide or coordinate education and training for K–12 schools, universities, employers, and community organizations.
• Build relationships with school administrators, educators, university leaders, and other stakeholders to proactively address Jewish inclusion and antisemitism.
• Partner with J·Hub and the Nathan and Esther Pelz Holocaust Education Resource Center (HERC) on K–12 education and response efforts.
• Collaborate with WJSN, Secure Community Networks, and law enforcement partners on relevant safety and security concerns.
• Monitor local and state policy developments affecting the Jewish community and work with Federation leadership and community partners to develop advocacy strategies and engage elected officials and other decision-makers.

Community Relations & Civic Engagement (~50%)

• Build and sustain relationships with elected officials, government agencies, interfaith leaders, law enforcement, civic and business leaders, and community organizations.
• Strengthen JFM’s presence and credibility throughout Madison and Dane County, particularly during periods of tension or crisis.
• Engage and support Community Relations Committee members and other volunteer leaders in advancing community priorities, building relationships, and participating in civic and interfaith initiatives.
• Work with schools and educational institutions to increase awareness of Jewish identity, history, culture, and holidays, particularly in relation to required academic events.
• Identify and develop partnerships around shared priorities including combating hate, education, civic engagement, and public policy.
• Develop high-impact programs that bring communities together, including interfaith initiatives, candidate forums, educational programs, and community service opportunities.
• Participate in fundraising initiatives (individual donor solicitations, grant applications, institutional funding opportunities) relating to JFNA funding requirements.
• Represent JFM at community meetings, public events, coalitions, and other forums as appropriate.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in public policy, government, Jewish studies, communications, social work, or a related field a plus.
• 3+ years of relevant experience preferred in community relations, public affairs, government affairs, advocacy, public education, nonprofit leadership, or a related field.
• Strong understanding of contemporary antisemitism, Jewish communal priorities, Israel advocacy, Zionism, and related public-policy issues.
• Familiarity with Dane County’s government, nonprofit, education, faith, and civic landscape strongly preferred.
• Excellent written, verbal, public-speaking, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build trust and productive relationships across diverse constituencies.
• Strong judgment, emotional intelligence, self-direction, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-moving environment.
• Comfort with Microsoft Office/Teams and social media; familiarity with Canva, Adobe, or related communications tools a plus.
• Ability to attend occasional evening and Sunday meetings and programs.
• Reliable transportation required.

Compensation

$75,000–$85,000 annual salary, commensurate with experience, plus a competitive benefits package.