Executive Director

Jewish Federation of Ottawa; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Kehillat Beth Israel (KBI), a vibrant synagogue in Ottawa, seeks an inspiring Executive Director to lead during a transformative period. This full-time role involves strategic leadership, managing operations, finances, and fundraising. The ideal candidate should have proven leadership experience, strong financial skills, and excellent communication abilities. KBI offers a competitive salary and a robust benefits package for personal and professional growth.

Benefits

Health insurance

Retirement contribution

Professional development support

Paid time off

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading staff and operations in a similarly complex environment.
• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, payroll, and reporting.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and operational leadership alongside clergy and the Board.
• Manage synagogue operations, programming, finances, HR, facilities, and administration.
• Lead fundraising and planned giving efforts; explore grant opportunities.

Skills

Leadership

Financial Acumen

Communication Skills

Relationship Building

Education

Bachelor’s degree in relevant field

Job description

Lead with Purpose. Shape the Future.

Kehillat Beth Israel (KBI), a vibrant conservative synagogue in Ottawa, is searching for an inspiring and visionary Executive Director to guide our dynamic community through an exciting period of transformation and renewal.
This is a rare opportunity to lead one of Canada’s most welcoming and engaged Jewish congregations at a time ripe for innovation. We are looking for a strategic, hands-on leader who thrives on building relationships, driving change, and creating impact.

Why Ottawa? Canada’s Capital: Global, Green, and Livable
Ottawa is a cosmopolitan city with small-town warmth. Home to over 1 million people, it offers the perfect blend of culture, nature, and opportunity. Known for its excellent schools, healthcare, public services, and stunning four-season lifestyle, Ottawa also stands out as a diverse and tolerant city where people from all backgrounds feel at home.
- Top-ranked quality of life in Canada
- World-class museums, bike paths, ski hills, and festivals
- Diverse neighbourhoods and global cuisine
- Bilingual, multicultural, family-friendly, and inclusive
Jewish Life in Ottawa Ottawa’s Jewish community—15,000 strong—is inclusive, thriving, and deeply connected. With 12 synagogues, Jewish schools, kosher amenities, and a robust Jewish Community Campus, Ottawa offers Jewish life at every stage. From young families to retirees, everyone can find a place on our community's "Jewish Superhighway."

About Kehillat Beth Israel (KBI)
KBI is a multi-generational synagogue serving over 500 families. We are committed to fostering a Jewish life that is holy, meaningful, and inclusive. Our community embraces people of all backgrounds, abilities, orientations, and gender identities.
Rooted in the pillars of Torah (learning), Avodah (worship), Gemilut Hasadim (ethical action), Havurah (community), Keruv (outreach), and Tzedakah (giving), KBI blends tradition with innovation to create a rich spiritual and cultural home.

Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic and operational leadership alongside clergy and the Board
- Manage synagogue operations, programming, finances, HR, facilities, and administration
- Cultivate relationships with members, donors, sponsors, and foundations
- Lead fundraising and planned giving efforts; explore grant opportunities
- Oversee facilities and security, including capital improvements and risk management
- Support communications, public relations, and engagement with Jewish and interfaith communities
- Mobilize and inspire clergy, staff, volunteers, and congregants to achieve shared goals

Required Qualifications
- Proven experience leading staff and operations in a similarly complex environment
- Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, payroll, and reporting
- Demonstrated ability to manage change and implement strategic plans
- Excellent oral and written communication skills in English
- Collaborative leadership style with strong relationship-building skills
- High level of discretion and integrity in handling sensitive information
Preferred Qualifications
- Familiarity with synagogue life, Jewish traditions, or communal organizations
- Experience in the not-for-profit sector
- Bilingual (English required; French and/or Hebrew an asset)
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field preferred

Compensation
Salary range: 125,000CAD to 150,000CAD, commensurate with experience.
KBI offers a robust benefits package including:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Life insurance
- Retirement contribution
- Paid time off and family/medical leave
- Professional development support
We are committed to supporting our team’s growth, well-being, and work-life balance.

Additional Information
- This is a full-time, in-person leadership role based in Ottawa, Ontario.
- Candidates must be available to work occasional evenings and weekends for special events and programming.

How to Apply
Submit the following to [e-mail] :
- A cover letter detailing your interest and alignment with KBI's mission
- A current resume highlighting relevant leadership experience

Deadline: September 26, 2025 Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. All inquiries will be handled with strict confidentiality.