Join Our Team!
Executive Director
Overview
Since its inception in 2017, SketchPad has distinguished itself as Chicago’s premier and only Jewish coworking space, designed to serve a broad spectrum of Jewish communal organizations and professionals. As a cornerstone of collaborative and innovative work, SketchPad’s mission is to enhance the impact of its members by nurturing an environment that fosters collaboration, creativity, and resource-sharing, all while upholding Jewish values such as inclusivity, environmental stewardship, and hachnasat orchim (hospitality). Far more than a simple workspace, SketchPad is a vibrant cultural and intellectual center that sets a new standard for Jewish community spaces. It translates Jewish values into actionable, people-focused outcomes through impactful missions of its member organizations, curated professional development opportunities, and commitment to socially and environmentally conscious practices.
SketchPad is in search of a dynamic Executive Director to lead the organization into its next exciting phase of development. The Executive Director will serve as the primary spokesperson and the public face of SketchPad, strengthening community ties and enhancing the organization's presence within Chicago’s Jewish community. This role involves spearheading the implementation of a new strategic vision and advancing SketchPad's mission. Core priorities include fundraising and organizational growth and sustainability, community development, operations management, and programmatic oversight. A strong candidate will possess a passion for community engagement, a proven track record in fundraising, and the ability to elevate SketchPad’s impact and visibility.
Systemic inequities in hiring have caused many women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ people to apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. If you believe that you could excel in this role, we encourage you to apply. SketchPad is an equal opportunity employer, and we believe that diversity within staff is an organizational strength, and recognize and value the intersecting identities that staff members bring to our organization. We are committed to providing equal employment consideration without discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender and gender identity, age, socio-economic status, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, religion, or any other protected status.
Key Responsibilities
- Work in partnership with the Board and organizational consultant to develop and implement a forward-thinking strategic plan that advances SketchPad’s mission and positions the organization for sustainable growth and increased community impact
- Partner with the Board of Directors to strengthen governance practices, recruit new members, and ensure active and effective board participation
- Lead fundraising efforts to secure and diversify revenue streams through partnerships and donor relationships with a focus on institutional and major donors
- Oversee nuanced messaging and engagement strategies to connect with stakeholders, prospective community members, philanthropic partners, donors, and partner organizations
- Drive branding and messaging initiatives aimed at attracting young Jewish professionals in their 20s and 30s, expanding SketchPad’s membership base
- Develop organizational budget; monitor financial controls and monthly financial reports; oversee annual audit, and ensure financial sustainability
- Lead the enhancement and diversification of SketchPad’s programs and services, reinforcing its role as a central hub for the Jewish community in Chicago
- Coordinate and oversee capital improvements to the space; lead communication to members and for event rental opportunities
Qualifications and Skills
- 6+ years’ fundraising experience to include major gifts of $25,000+; experienced in creating and executing growth-oriented development plans
- Demonstrated history of providing exceptional customer service with a warm and welcoming approach
- Proven track record in project management, strong organizational skills, process orientation, flexibility, and adept problem-solving abilities
- Experience in engaging diverse constituencies of donors, members, foundations, and community partners through strong interpersonal skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a proven ability to articulate ideas and information effectively
- Knowledge of business technology, including donor database systems, Google Suite, and Microsoft suite
- Substantial management experience with a track record of effectively leading teams to achieve organizational goals
- Marketing/design experience preferred
- Familiarity with Chicago’s Jewish community and nonprofit organizations strongly preferred
Compensation Range
$110,000 - $125,000
To apply, please submit a resume & cover letter to Jamie Perry, Evolve Giving Group: [email protected]