American Jewish Committee; AJC Westchester​/Fairfield

AJC Westchester/Fairfield has retained the services of Harris Rand Lusk to conduct this search. Inquiries, nominations and applications may be directed in confidence to:

Jack Lusk, Managing Partner & CEO
Harris Rand Lusk
260 Madison Avenue, 15th Floor
New York, NY 10016

Email your resume and cover letter to Kathryn Frances at:
Please put “AJC DOD” in the subject line of your emailed application.

Background:

The American Jewish Committee (AJC) is the global advocacy organization for the Jewish people. From world capitals to college campuses, AJC works with leaders across society to support Israel and combat surging antisemitism, leveraging strategic advocacy to educate, counter misinformation, and shape public opinion. AJC creates trusted partnerships with leaders in the United States and around the world to boldlyadvocate for Jewsand Israel.

In the wake of Hamas’ October 7 attack, AJC has mobilized its global network to tackle the unprecedented threats facing world Jewry.

AJC Westchester/Fairfield engages more than 4,000 people in AJC’s critical work through over 140 educational programs and advocacy initiatives each year. The region’s proximity to New York City allows for unparalleled access to top-notch experts, government officials, diplomats, political leaders, and public intellectuals. Multiple volunteer committees—on topics such as diplomatic outreach, interfaith relations, and governmental —produce high-level, engaging programs, including the Thanksgiving Diversity Breakfast, the annual AJC Westchester/Fairfield Gala, and well over 100 programs and events each year.

The Position:

AJC Westchester/Fairfield is seeking an exceptional and seasoned fundraising professional to become its next Director of Development. The new Director of Development will be capable of identifying, cultivating, engaging, and stewarding existing donors and new prospects, managing fundraising events, and serving as a development advisor and subject-matter expert. The ideal candidate will bring a track record of success in cultivating major gift campaigns, a strong understanding of the Westchester/Fairfield philanthropic landscape, and an ability to craft compelling donor-centered narratives.

They will be a highly motivated self-starter with excellent organizational and interpersonal skills, capable of balancing strategic planning with hands-on execution in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

The DOD will lead a comprehensive development strategy and program with a strong emphasis on community relationship-building and philanthropic growth. They will be successful at building and maintaining relationships and partnerships with stakeholders and serve as a passionate advocate for the work of AJC. The ideal candidate will have strong interpersonal skills, excellent written and oral communication skills, be approachable and open to new ideas, and be an active and engaged problem-solver.

They must lead their team with a minimum of ego and set and achieve clear goals and priorities in partnership with the staff and the organization.

Responsibilities:

• Partner with the Regional Director and regional leadership to develop and implement a comprehensive, sophisticated fundraising plan that will advance AJC’s fundraising goals, strengthen the pipeline, and increase donors’ affinity with the mission
• Develop, oversee, and facilitate fundraising campaigns, programs, events, and initiatives
• Identify, research, cultivate, engage, solicit, and steward existing donors and new prospects, including major donors/prospects, foundations, and private sector support
• Collaborate with and manage the work of committees, task forces, and working groups
• Manage and mentor development team with a focus on professional development in alignment with the values and goals of the organization
• Leverage resources to help build awareness of and support for AJC and development initiatives
• Oversee and maintain accurate financial records and budgets for development-related programs and events
• Create reports and analyze department activities, metrics, and impact
• Advise and support assigned Departments with…