Director of Operations

Director of Operations

North Shore Congregation Israel (NSCI), a Reform synagogue located on the shores of Lake Michigan, is one of Chicago’s largest and most vibrant congregations. For more than a century, NSCI has reliably responded to the changing needs of the population it serves. Even with 100 years of history, NSCI maintains a forward-thinking approach to Jewish life and engagement. NSCI’s congregants have made deep personal and financial investments in their Jewish life and community. In turn, NSCI makes a similar investment in its congregants. This new position of Director of Operations is one such investment and will be key to the congregation progressing its vision, operating model, services, and infrastructure. 

We are seeking an experienced Director of Operations to help us achieve our vision and goals through outstanding operational leadership and sound fiscal and administrative management. You will work in close partnership with the Executive Director, with lay leaders, and with strong staff teams from across NSCI to

deliver exceptional experiences for current and prospective congregants as well as other community stakeholders. This position plays a key role in bridging the

gap between all NSCI departments. Key responsibilities include:

Administration Oversight

• Supervise a team of Administrative Assistants that supports senior staff and provides general office management, inspiring them to excel in their work.
• Oversee and maximize effectiveness of CRM system. Develop and implement administrative best practices that ensure accuracy and consistency of data and ease of use for congregants and staff.
• Identify opportunities for staff development as well as provide trainings to ensure synagogue maintains compliance with state and federally mandated regulations.  
• Manage staff workload and promote cross-training to create a knowledgeable, flexible, effective and collaborative workforce.
• Promote a culture of excellent customer service with a mindset of “how might we.”    

Facilities

• Supervise Head of Maintenance and team of facilities staff members.
• Proactively maintain expansive facility, taking great care to preserve the integrity of a building and grounds designed by world-renowned architects.
• Oversee vendor and contractor relationships, obtaining competitive bids, negotiating contracts, and ensuring work is performed as anticipated and on budget.
• Serve as staff liaison to Building and Grounds Committee.

Security

• Oversee team of security guards who are both contracted and NSCI employees.
• Maintain close relationships with local and national law enforcement to help inform proper security profile.
• Maintain NSCI’s Emergency Action Plan and oversee Crisis and Incident Response teams in partnership with Chair of Building and Grounds Committee. Train staff and congregants in emergency procedures.  
• Administer security-related grants from government or other sources.
• Oversee relationship with fire and security monitoring contractor, ensuring systems and equipment are properly maintained. Serve as emergency contact for after-hours security incidents.   

Technology

• Oversee relationship with IT contractor charged with providing staff support, maintaining current software, hardware, infrastructure, and cyber-security.
• Maintain awareness of emerging digital engagement trends and ensure NSCI is equipped with the technology to best engage with stakeholders.
• Oversee extensive audio-visual systems throughout NSCI, employing contractors or staff to maintain and operate equipment as appropriate.

Events and Rentals

• Supervise Events and B’nei Mitzvah Coordinator.
• Oversee logistics of largest synagogue functions, including High Holy Days services, Annual Gala fundraiser, and other major events and programs.
• Serve as point person for existing tenants and identify new rental opportunities that fit within the parameters of NSCI’s Use of Building and Grounds Policy and our strategic priorities.

General

• Support overall engagement efforts including participation in program planning and implementation, which may occur on some evenings and weekends.
• Attend and actively participate in Staff and Board meetings as requested.
• Support overall NSCI administration as head of the administrative team, answering phones or in-person questions from congregants as needed.
• Additional responsibilities as required.

Required Qualifications and Experience:

• Enthusiasm for the vision and mission of NSCI (www.nsci.org/Who-We-Are) and the role of synagogues in Jewish life.
• 5+ years of senior operations and administrative experience. Bachelor’s Degree required.
• Ability to implement and oversee systems as well as to “roll up your sleeves” and execute.
• Demonstrated experience collaborating across multiple internal teams and departments and ability to build consensus.
• Meticulous attention to detail with very high quality standards and principles.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively interface with congregants, senior leadership, volunteers, and staff.
• Experience with building and grounds management.
• Experience with Google Drive and strong familiarity with CRM systems.
• Ability to maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, volunteers, other organizations and industry contacts.

Reports to: Executive Director

Job type: Full-time

Salary: Commensurate with experience, includes benefits

To apply: Send resume to hr@nsci.org