Director of Public Affairs and Community Relations

Director of Public Affairs and Community RelationsJewish Federation of Greater New HavenThe Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven brings people together to strengthen Jewish life, support Israel, care for those in need, and build a vibrant, secure, and connected community. Through philanthropy, leadership, and partnerships, the Federation serves as the central address for Jewish communal life and a trusted partner within the broader civic landscape.The Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven seeks a thoughtful, strategic professional to serve as its Director of Public Affairs and Community Relations. This role is centered on leading the Federation's efforts to address and respond to antisemitism, strengthen support for Israel, and build meaningful relationships across diverse communities. The Director will operate at the intersection of public affairs, communications, and community leadership, helping to shape both strategy and response in a complex and rapidly evolving environment. This position requires a professional who combines strong communication skills, sound judgment, and emotional maturity with the ability to engage constructively with individuals holding a wide range of perspectives.The Director of Public Affairs and Community Relations leads the Federation's work in combating antisemitism, advancing Israel engagement, and building strong civic and intergroup relationships.Working closely with the CEO and a committee of lay leaders, the Director will develop and implement a strategic public affairs agenda that includes:Combating antisemitismStrengthening relationships with K16 educational institutionsBuilding partnerships with elected officialsEngaging in interfaith and cross-community outreachPromoting understanding of and support for IsraelThis role represents a strategic evolution beyond the traditional JCRC model, with a strong emphasis on clear communication, disciplined execution, collaboration, and systems that support effective and timely response.This role operates in close partnership with the CEO and requires strong judgment in representing the Federation externally. The Director will support and help prepare senior leadership for high-level engagement, while also representing the organization in appropriate settings. Success in this role requires discretion, role clarity, and the ability to navigate external relationships in a way that reflects organizational priorities and leadership structure.Salary Range: Starting at $85,000Key ResponsibilitiesAntisemitism Response and Public AffairsCommunications and MessagingCommunity Relations and Coalition BuildingGovernment and Institutional RelationsJCRC Leadership and PartnershipStrategy, Prioritization, and ExecutionOrganizational CollaborationQualificationsBachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred.Significant experience in public affairs, communications, community relations, government relations, or a related field.Demonstrated experience addressing or responding to antisemitism or related community issues strongly preferred.Excellent writing and communication skills, with the ability to craft clear, thoughtful, and effective messaging. Prior press or communication experience preferred.Strong political awareness and the ability to navigate complex and sensitive environments with sound judgment.Demonstrated ability to build and sustain productive working relationships across organizations and teams.Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities effectively.Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, volunteers, and stakeholders holding diverse viewpoints.Strong computer and technology skills, including comfort with digital communication tools and platforms.Demonstrated ability to operate both independently and in close partnership with senior leadership.Personal QualitiesIntegrity and a deep commitment to the Federation's missionEmotional maturity, professionalism, and sound judgmentThe ability to remain calm, thoughtful, and constructive in complex or high-pressure situationsStrong interpersonal and relationship-building skillsA collaborative, team-oriented approachRespect for a broad range of perspectives and the ability to engage productively across differencesA disciplined, organized, and solutions-oriented work styleAbility to engage constructively with differing viewpoints without becoming reactive or dismissiveDemonstrates strong judgment in representing an organization externally, including understanding when to lead and when to support senior leadershipThis position requires a professional who values institutional mission, exercises sound judgment, and approaches complex community issues with discretion, professionalism, and respect for others.Organizational AlignmentThe Director serves as a representative of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven and is expected to advance the organization's mission and priorities in close partnership with the CEO and volunteer leadership.The CEO serves as the primary external representative of the Federation. The Director plays a key role in advancing the organization's work by supporting external relationships, preparing for high-level engagement, and representing the Federation in appropriate settings.This role requires strong judgment in understanding when to engage directly and when to support senior leadership. Success depends on the ability to operate within a coordinated leadership approach, ensuring that all external engagement reflects the Federation's priorities, relationships, and institutional voice.Commitment to the RoleThe Federation seeks a professional interested in building meaningful and lasting relationships within the Greater New Haven community. This role is best suited for someone motivated by long-term impact, consistency, and sustained engagement.Professional ReferencesFinal candidates will be asked to provide professional references who can speak to their leadership style, collaborative approach, and professional judgment.