Chapter Director, Washington DC, and MidAtlantic Region

Friends of the Israel Defense Forces • Rockville, MD

3h • Onsite

About The Position

FIDF is seeking a full-time Chapter Director to support and expand the Chapter for a dynamically expanding non-profit organization. The Chapter Director serves as the senior leader of the Washington, DC Chapter, responsible for driving fundraising growth, building and sustaining strong donor relationships, and increasing community engagement. This role involves strategic leadership, operational oversight, and collaboration with the national FIDF team to execute initiatives that support FIDF’s mission. The Chapter Director will serve as the primary ambassador for FIDF within the local Jewish community and beyond, inspiring supporters to deepen their commitment to the organization while fostering a culture of philanthropy and impact. A sincere and genuine interest in the importance of FIDF’s mission of supporting soldiers, families, and veterans of the Israel Defense Forces is required. The work involves driving toward results by enrolling the commitment and buy-in of others, both colleagues and local Board members, and is built by fundraising through individuals, Foundations and Planned Giving. This role has a variety of dynamic and changing tasks, requiring regular meetings and proactively establishing relationships with existing and new groups. The ability to understand, quickly react and motivate others to adapt to the changing organization environment is a critical key to success.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in fundraising in nonprofit leadership, development, or related fields
• Proven track record of successful major gift fundraising ($25,000+ gifts)
• Experience working with boards, lay leaders, and high-net-worth individuals
• Strong relationship-building and interpersonal skills with a demonstrated ability to inspire donors and volunteers
• Excellent written and verbal communication, including public speaking and presentation skills
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office 365 applications
• Strategic thinker with strong project management and organizational skills, with an ability to manage several projects simultaneously
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, result-driven environment
• Technology competent with CRM systems, and virtual communication platforms
• Ability to travel locally and occasionally nationally and internationally to Israel
• Evening and weekend work required

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree in nonprofit management, business, or related field preferred
• Knowledge of the Jewish philanthropic landscape and local Jewish community
• Passion for FIDF’s mission highly preferred
• Raiser's Edge experience preferred

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy to achieve annual and long-term revenue goals for the chapter.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with major donors, community leaders, and key stakeholders.
• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major gifts, working closely with donors to align their philanthropic interests with FIDF’s mission and programs.
• Lead the planning and execution of signature events, campaigns, and parlor meetings to engage new and existing supporters.
• Work with lay leaders, affinity groups, and committees to expand FIDF’s donor network.
• Provide visionary leadership to the chapter team, fostering a collaborative, positive, mission-driven, and results-oriented culture.
• Partner with the RVP and national leadership to develop regional strategic plans and align chapter activities with organizational priorities.
• Serve as the face of FIDF within the local community, representing the organization at events, board meetings, and public engagements.
• Guide and mentor staff, setting clear goals and expectations, while supporting professional development.
• Manage the chapter’s operational functions, including budgeting, reporting, and compliance with national policies.
• Partner with lay leadership and the regional board to ensure effective governance, strategic alignment, and donor stewardship.
• Provide regular updates to national leadership on progress toward goals, emerging opportunities, and community trends.
• Responsible for the fiscal management of the chapter operating within the approved budget, focus on top-line results while protecting bottom line.
• Create donor research plans and stewardship programs.
• Work with Planned Giving, Foundations, Finance, Marketing and Events, Human Resources, CRM staff and Business Information Technology to achieve chapter goals.
• Motivate, coach and supervise assigned staff.
• Cultivating new and existing donors to continue to put a spotlight on the importance of stewardship.
• Strengthen FIDF’s presence and visibility by cultivating partnerships with synagogues, schools, community organizations, and other Jewish and non-Jewish institutions.
• Promote FIDF’s mission through participation in community events.
• Develop targeted outreach strategies to engage the next generation of donors and leaders.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package based on experience and performance.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plan with 403(b) matching, and generous paid time off, early departure before Shabbat and Jewish Holidays.
• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development within a national organization.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees