Managing Director

Hillel at the University of Wisconsin–Madison

Reports to: President & CEO

FLSA Status: Exempt

Location: Madison, WI

Overview

Hillel at the University of Wisconsin–Madison seeks a Managing Director - a visionary, strategic, and relationship-driven executive who will lead the vision, execution, and growth of Jewish life on one of the nation’s most vibrant campuses.

As Hillel’s senior campus executive and second-in-command, the Managing Director oversees all aspects of student life, engagement, and communications. This leader will supervise a team of 7+ program and professional staff, guide the strategic direction for program excellence, and serve as the primary face of Hillel’s student affairs presence to the University, parents, and community partners.

This is an extraordinary opportunity for a talented Jewish professional to shape a thriving campus community, inspire professional and student leaders, and ensure that UW Hillel remains one of the nation’s premier centers for Jewish life, learning, and connection.

Scope of Leadership

The Managing Director leads the campus program and engagement strategy of a $2M+ Hillel, supervising 7+ program professionals and the Marketing & Digital Engagement Manager, and partnering with senior leadership on operations, communications, and community relations. This role directs the student-facing mission of one of the largest and most dynamic Hillels in North America.

Why This Role Matters

The Managing Director (Chief Program Officer) will shape the future of Jewish life at UW–Madison. This is an opportunity to lead a high-performing team, innovate at scale, and help thousands of students build lifelong Jewish friendships and experiences.

This role is ideal for an experienced senior Jewish professional ready to lead at scale — shaping the future of Jewish life on campus while partnering closely with a seasoned CEO. You’ll be part of a forward-thinking organization that values creativity, professionalism, and purpose — and you’ll make a lasting mark on the next generation of Jewish leaders.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Vision

• Lead the development and execution of Hillel’s overall programmatic and engagement strategy for Jewish life at UW–Madison, grounded in an engagement-first philosophy that values breadth, depth, and belonging.
• Translate mission and vision into a clear set of goals, systems, and metrics that promote student connection, leadership development, and community impact.
• Partner with the CEO and Board on long-range program planning, annual goals, and evaluation.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, creativity, and joy among students and staff.

Team Supervision & Professional Development

• Supervise, coach, and inspire the program and engagement staff team.
• Lead weekly team meetings, onboarding, and ongoing professional development.
• Establish clear expectations and systems that promote accountability, creativity, and excellence.
• Model strong management practices and a relational, student-centered approach.
• Build a culture that develops emerging professional talent—mentoring staff toward future leadership within Hillel and the broader Jewish community.

Student Engagement & Leadership Development

• Guide the structure and growth of student-led affinity groups (e.g., Greek Council, Wellness, Israel interest groups, Launchpad Career Networking, Cultural and Social programs).
• Develop a sustainable leadership framework that empowers students to design and lead meaningful Jewish experiences while maintaining professional mentorship and oversight.
• Nurture student leadership for Shabbat, holidays, and community-building programs, ensuring diverse, accessible opportunities.
• Oversee recruitment and execution of major student experiences, including FreshFest, Israel leadership delegations, and immersive learning trips.

Technology, Communications & Systems

• Oversee the integration of digital tools and communications systems that support engagement and connection, including Salesforce, website, event registration, texting platforms, and social media.
• Lead all non-fundraising communications to students and parents, including weekly student e-news, parent updates, and program announcements.
• Ensure Hillel’s digital presence reflects the excellence, inclusivity, and vibrancy of our on-campus work.
• Collaborate with the CEO and Operations team to ensure data systems capture engagement metrics and support organizational learning.

Campus & Community Partnerships

• Serve as Hillel’s senior representative for student life and campus relations, building