Executive Director, Jewish Security Network

About the organization:

The Jewish Security Network (JSN) is an affiliate organization of the UJA that ensures and enhances the security and safety of the Jewish community within the Greater Toronto Area.

Overview: The Jewish Security Network (JSN) is seeking a dynamic and experienced Executive Director to lead its efforts in enhancing the security and safety of the Jewish community in the Greater Toronto Area. The Executive Director will play a pivotal role in developing the security strategy, leading a team of security professionals to deliver on comprehensive security initiatives, fostering partnerships with law enforcement agencies, and implementing proactive measures to safeguard community members, institutions, and assets against potential threats.

Responsibilities:

1. Leadership and Strategic Planning:

• Provide visionary leadership to JSN, setting strategic goals and priorities aligned with the organization's mission.
• Develop and implement comprehensive security strategies to address emerging threats and mitigate risks facing the Jewish community.
• Collaborate with the Board of Directors, community leaders, and stakeholders to advance the organization's objectives and initiatives.
• Recruit, motivate, develop and retain talent to deliver impactful results; champion a flexible, agile and inclusive work environment, prioritizing health and well-being of team.
• Support UJA Federation in fundraising efforts for security initiatives.

2. Community Engagement and Relationship Building:

• Cultivate strong relationships with Jewish communal organizations, synagogues, summer camps, schools, and other relevant stakeholders to promote collaboration and information sharing.
• Serve as a liaison between the JSN and local law enforcement agencies, government officials, and security professionals to coordinate security efforts and response protocols.
• Organize community outreach events, training sessions, and educational programs to raise awareness about security issues and empower community members to play an active role in safeguarding their institutions and neighborhoods.
• Recruit, train and maintain security volunteers to assist Jewish organizations in securing their premises.

3. Operational Management:

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the JSN, including budgeting, resource allocation, and administrative functions.
• Recruit, train, and supervise a team of staff members and volunteers responsible for implementing security protocols, conducting risk assessments, and providing support to community partners.
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards related to security and emergency preparedness.
• Oversee the installation of security infrastructure including a Security Operations Centre (SOC).

4. Risk Assessment and Crisis Management:

• Conduct regular assessments of security threats and vulnerabilities affecting the Jewish community, utilizing intelligence analysis and risk assessment techniques.

• Develop and maintain emergency response plans, protocols, and communication strategies to effectively respond to security incidents, crises, and emergencies.

• Coordinate drills, exercises, and simulations to test the effectiveness of response plans and enhance preparedness levels across the community.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field

• Security certification preferred

• Proven ability to build and lead teams including experience with recruiting, developing talent and managing a large security volunteer network.

• Experience being the senior leader of an organization including budgeting, legal issues, and governance.

• 10-15 years of senior-level security experience securing global Jewish communities and institutions

• Familiarity with the rhythm of Jewish community institutions including synagogues, JCCs, day and overnight summer camps, Jewish day schools and yeshivot.

• Experience in sourcing, installing and maintaining best in class security infrastructure including a Security Operations Centre and Security Infrastructure for Jewish community institutions

• Strong organizational and strategic planning abilities; proven success leading strategic initiatives

• A self-starter able to leverage his/her knowledge, skill and experience to manage complex change from start to finish

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• Experience with budget management

• Track record of successfully working with staff and stakeholders to deliver complex security projects on time and within budget

• Ability to problem-solve, think strategically and make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment

• Experience with project management tools and methodologies

• Strong leadership, multitasking, and team management skills

• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders at all levels

• Must apply judgment and discretion in the handling of sensitive and confidential documentation

• Knowledge of the not-for-profit sector

• Knowledge of Toronto’s Jewish community

Application Process: Please submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to info@jsntoronto.com   Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Commitment to Inclusion and Accessibility:

The Jewish Security Network supports a diverse candidate and employment experience. We are proud of our dynamic professional team, which reflects the diversity of the Jewish community and general community alike in Greater Toronto. We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all communities. We encourage you to follow us to get regular updates on open roles. We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible workplace and believe this is essential to ensure that every member of our team can thrive.

We adhere to barrier-free and accessible employment practices in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Should you require Code-protected accommodation through any stage of the recruitment process, please notify us and we will work with you to meet your needs.