American Jewish University (AJU) seeks a strong and experienced business leader to serve as its next Chief Operating and Financial Officer (COO/CFO). Located in Los Angeles, AJU is a laboratory of living Judaism singularly focused on the future of Jewish life inspiring and educating the next generation of professionals, Rabbis, educators, and lay leaders, and creating innovative and dynamic pathways for Jewish learning and living. As it embarks upon a new and ambitious strategic plan, AJU seeks a strong and experienced business leader to serve as its next Chief Operating and Financial Officer (COO/CFO).
A portal for Jewish belonging, AJU equips students, faculty, campers, and learners of all ages with the tools to create the ideas, build the structures, and develop the programs to advance Jewish wisdom and elevate Jewish living. Through its non-denominational educational offerings, AJU is dedicated to serving the entire community, welcoming individuals of all backgrounds, beliefs, and denominations. Whether a student, aspiring rabbi, or simply someone seeking enriching educational experiences, AJU offers a wealth of programs and is working to shape a brighter future together.
The COO/CFO will join AJU at a pivotal time, having just welcomed a new President and CEO, Jay Sanderson. A key collaborator within the executive leadership team, the COO/CFO will ensure this dynamic organization is able to achieve its ambitious goals to elevate and expand AJU’s impact.
Under the guidance of President Sanderson, AJU is calling for communal change and transformation. AJU stands ready to implement a bold and historic endeavor through its new strategic plan, the 2050 Institute. This will bring the top North American leaders in their fields together to inspire change and facilitate action. The Institute has been created with a deep understanding of the past and the profound challenges of today. Launching this year, 2050 will look forward to the next generation of Jewish life and beyond, and the next COO/CFO will play a vital role in its formation and implementation.
This is an exceptional opportunity for a high-caliber and forward-thinking leader to leverage the 2050 vision to strengthen and support the growth of this storied institution, expanding its impact at this transitional time in AJU’s existence. This new leader will play a key role in driving transformation, serving as a catalyst for change to elevate the organization for improved success.
Five or more years of progressive operational and financial leadership experience, in addition to a bachelor’s degree, preferably in business or a related field, are required. An MBA and/or CPA is preferred.
It is the expectation of AJU that the COO/CFO reside in Los Angeles, have a deep appreciation for the Jewish culture and community, and be an actively engaged member of the community and the broader region.
WittKieffer is supporting this search and welcomes all expressions of interest and nominations. Candidates wishing to apply must submit materials electronically. For more information, questions, or nominations, or to submit application materials, please contact the WittKieffer consultants supporting this search, Michelle Johnson, Melody Rose, Ph.D., and Alejandra Gillette-Teran, by emailing [email protected].
American Jewish University expects to pay in the range of $275,000-$350,000 based on experience and qualifications. Additionally, AJU offers a competitive benefits package.