VP of Programs
Walder Insitute
Full-Time

Overview

The Walder Operations (“WO”) is hiring a Vice President of Programs who will be responsible for overseeing all day-to-day operations and developing new programs. The Vice President of Programs will serve as the primary advisor to the Executive Chair. The successful candidate will direct and collaborate with senior leaders of WO’s three dynamic initiatives advancing education for Chicago’s burgeoning Orthodox Jewish community: Walder Jewish Education, Walder STEAM Education, and the Kehillah Fund as well as with Walder Foundation’s Jewish Life Team. The Vice President of Programs will demonstrate superior educational leadership, a collaborative spirit, and an ability to provide strategic leadership and management. He or she will also lead WO through a transformative phase of change and growth, expanding WI’s local impact and global reach. The primary duties affiliated with this position require the exercise of independent judgment, specialized knowledge and training, and enterprise
Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.
To apply: Please send your resume to Shira@shirawerblowsky.com

Key Responsibilities

→ Supervise, oversee, and direct overall WO operations and all aspects of day-to-day WI operational management
→ Establish and execute the organizational goals in line with WO’s mission
→ Serve as liaison between the Board and the rest of the WO organization
→ Oversee general operations and planning of the three core initiatives within WI
→ Define new initiatives and strategies for WO in the next phases of work and execute a
vision of ongoing dynamic programming through strategic leadership
→ Oversee a range of WO events, new program and initiative inaugurations, and PR events
→ Serve as public relations representative to WI’s constituencies, media, and mission- aligned partners
→ Champion a broad approach to Jewish education, anchored in a commitment to traditional Jewish learning and a broad general studies background
→ Teach and coach WO staff members to promote and maintain a communicative, positive, and goal-oriented team culture
→ Successfully manage the WO budget
→ Foster a positive team culture, drive team development and ongoing education, and inspire and develop excellence and goal achievement within WO

Reports to: Executive Chair of Board of Directors (“Board”)

Requirements

→ Integrity, positive attitude, and mission-driven approach, with demonstrated passion for WO’s mission
→ Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to expand professional network in support of WI’s mission
→ Excellent record of managing a diverse team of professionals Sound judgment in key problem-solving scenarios
→ Dedication to maintaining an impeccable personal reputation, as this role will be subject to heightened scrutiny and visibility given the nature of the position
→ Excellent written and oral communication skills
→ Exceptionally organized, detail-oriented, and self-directed
→ Ability to thrive in a dynamic, high-energy environment
→ Inquisitiveness and an openness to learning, including new software and technologies

Relevant Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent combination of education and experience; MA or equivalent degree relating to education and leadership 8+ years of related management experience, including significant nonprofit, family office, and/or foundation experience as a strong educator within the broader Jewish community.