Director of Development

Position Title: Director of Development Reports to: Executive Director Location: Hybrid (must be willing to work in person 2-3 days a week at our Schara Tzedeck location. Employment Type: Full-Time (Some evenings) Compensation: $95,000 - $110,000 plus full benefits About the organization Congregation Schara Tzedeck is the largest and most established Modern Orthodox synagogue in Western Canada and has been a cornerstone of the Vancouver Jewish Community for over 117 years. We have a membership base of over 500 families, we hold daily services, celebrate the Jewish holidays and offer a welcoming space for our membership and the Jewish community of Vancouver to observe the Jewish holidays, rituals, and life cycle events. Our work is grounded in Torah, Israel, chesed, and tikun olam. We provide resources for members to explore and embrace Torah, Israel, and Jewish life while nurturing an educated, socially engaged membership committed to growing the Greater Vancouver Jewish community. In 2024, our board identified financial sustainability as a key strategic priority and recognized the need to engage in year-round fundraising and professionalize our current fundraising approach. Position Summary: The Director of Fund Development will play a pivotal role in advancing our mission by developing and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy and creating a culture of philanthropy within the organization. The Director will work closely with the Executive Director, the senior Rabbi and the board chair to meet and exceed our current fundraising goals through a variety of initiatives including planned giving, bequests, grants, corporate sponsorships, named fundraising events, and revenue-generating programming. The ideal candidate is a passionate, organized, and goal-oriented development professional with experience in the nonprofit or Jewish communal sectors and whose values align with our modern orthodox synagogue. Key Responsibilities: Fund Development Strategy & Management • Develop and execute a multi-year strategic fundraising plan aligned with the synagogue’s vision and goals. • Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors for annual and legacy gifts. • Build and manage a robust planned giving and bequest program. Revenue Generation • Expand revenue from diverse streams, including: Named fundraising events Educational and cultural programming Corporate sponsorships and partnerships Foundation and government grants • Collaborate with program staff to ensure fundraising initiatives align with programmatic offerings. Donor Relations & Stewardship • Create and implement donor engagement strategies to deepen relationships and increase retention. • Manage donor communications and ensure timely acknowledgements and recognition. • Work closely with the Rabbi, lay leadership, and development committee to support major gift cultivation. Grants & Sponsorships • Research, write, and manage grant proposals and reporting. • Develop corporate sponsorship packages and secure business partnerships that align with synagogue values. Event Fundraising • Plan and oversee the execution of fundraising events, including galas, donor recognition events, and community campaigns. • Collaborate with volunteers and committees to ensure event success. Data & Reporting • Maintain accurate donor records using shulcloud. • Monitor fundraising metrics and provide regular progress reports to senior leadership and the Board. Qualifications: • Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or CFRE certification a plus. • 3 years of progressive fundraising experience, ideally in a Jewish or nonprofit setting. • Proven track record in securing major gifts, planned gifts, and corporate/foundation funding. • Experience planning and executing large-scale fundraising events. • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. • Knowledge of Jewish customs, culture, and synagogue life preferred. • Proficiency with fundraising databases Compensation and Benefits • Full health and extended health and dental benefits after a 3-month probationary period • 4 weeks paid vacation plus paid time off for all of the Jewish holidays • Complimentary access to all Schara Tzedeck programs and Shabbat dinners How to Apply: The position is currently open. Interested candidates should submit their resumes and cover letters detailing relevant experience and motivation for this role to careers@scharatzedeck.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. We look forward to welcoming a new member to our dedicated team as we continue to strengthen Jewish life in Vancouver.