About Us
Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) was established in 1981 by a group of Holocaust survivors to provide for the education and wellbeing of the men and women who serve in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) as well as the families of fallen soldiers. Headquartered in New York City, FIDF is a 501c3 not-for-profit corporation that operates 24 regional offices in the United States and Panama. FIDF offers educational, cultural, recreational, and social services programs and facilities that provide hope, purpose, and life-changing support for the soldiers who protect Israel and Jews worldwide. Their job is to look after Israel. Ours is to look after them.
Position Summary
Reporting to the National Director/CEO, the Executive Director will be responsible for overseeing the San Francisco Bay Area chapter and raising funds for the FIDF. The Executive Director will identify research, manage and implement solicitation plans for a portfolio of individual, corporate, and foundation prospects. The Executive Director oversees the San Francisco office and the Director of Silicon Valley and Development Associate.
It is important for the Executive Director to understand and have a sincere and genuine interest in the importance of FIDF’s mission of supporting current members and veterans of the Israeli Defense Forces. A sophisticated and diplomatic personality who can work comfortably with people of influence and affluence is desirable. In addition, the Executive Director should have contacts and relationships in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Education
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university required.
Knowledge, Skills and Experience
• At least 8 years of demonstrated success in philanthropic fundraising including direct solicitation of and securing of individual major gifts.
• Knowledge of the San Francisco Bay Area Jewish community culture and traditions
• Demonstrated experience in designing and implementing a fundraising plan. Ability to articulate organizational goals related to building an effective philanthropy strategy.
• Possess a decisive and inclusive decision style with the ability to manage small details while focusing on the big picture. An organized manager, comfortable recommending strategic direction and implementing that direction on his/her own.
• A sincere and genuine interest in the mission of FIDF.
• Strong communication skills both verbal and written; skill in presenting oneself and communicating in a manner that is clear, effective and inspiring.
• Excellent interpersonal and diplomatic skills, along with the ability to lead with integrity and inspiration; must be flexible and open to working with volunteer lay leaders.
• Computer literacy experience using Raiser’s Edge to maximize fundraising results.
• Possess a high level of enthusiasm and energy; be self-motivated and able to work well under pressure and handle several projects at one time.
• Be available for evening and weekend events
• Performs other duties as requested.
Key Responsibilities
• Implement the regional strategic plan and monitor the progress of operations against plan targets in order to achieve FIDF goals and objectives.
• Lead, develop, implement, and manage short and long-term giving goals and strategies to support FIDF’s mission and fundraising goals.
• Oversee budget preparation and monitoring for all campaign related activities and ensure appropriate tracking and financial efficiency.
• Oversee the San Francisco office operations including supervising the Silicon Valley Director Development Associate.
• Act as the primary relationship manager with an assigned portfolio of donors and prospects; identifying, researching, cultivating and personally soliciting donors in San Francisco and the surrounding area.
• Cultivate, steward and build trusted relationships with a portfolio of San Francisco major donors and prospective major donors to generate new and increased giving.
• Collaborate with the National Development department on campaign-related materials and events to ensure accuracy and consistency of messaging.
• Manage the planning and implementation of special events for donor recognition and fundraising such as soldier visits, parlor meetings, speaking engagements, etc.;
• Pre-solicit sponsors for annual gala dinner and assist with event planning.
• Use Raiser’s Edge to maximize fundraising results.
• Oversee the Lay Leadership Board of Directors and recruit prospective board members.
• Recruit attendees for missions to Israel.
• Assume other responsibilities as needed.