Description

Ohavay Zion Synagogue (OZS), a warm and welcoming Conservative Jewish congregation in Lexington, Kentucky, is seeking our first-ever Executive Director to lead the operational, financial, and administrative functions of our community.

This full-time, on-site role offers a unique opportunity to partner with clergy, staff, and lay leaders to shape the next chapter of synagogue life. The Executive Director will oversee daily operations, supervise staff, manage the budget, coordinate fundraising, and support member engagement. The role also includes building and strengthening partnerships across the Jewish and interfaith communities in Central Kentucky.

We’re looking for someone who is not only highly organized and collaborative, but also energized by helping people feel connected, supported, and inspired. If you thrive in environments where relationships and results go hand-in-hand, we invite you to help us build something lasting and meaningful.

While we envision this role as full-time, we are open to candidates interested in exploring 3/4 time or other arrangement.

Requirements

What We’re Looking For:

• Bachelor’s degree required
• 7–10 years of relevant experience preferred—but we also welcome early-career candidates who are eager to grow
• Strong organizational and project management skills
• Excellent interpersonal and written communication abilities
• Experience with budgeting, financial systems, and donor engagement
• Experience in nonprofit, synagogue, or small business operations
• Familiarity with Jewish life, customs, and calendar—or a willingness to learn
• Tech-savvy and detail-oriented with a collaborative mindset

Bonus Points For:

• Experience supervising staff or volunteers
• A warm and welcoming presence with a passion for community-building
• Desire to be part of a thoughtful, forward-looking congregation in a small but mighty Jewish community