Founded in 1906, AJC seeks to enhance the well-being of the Jewish people and Israel, and to advance human rights and democratic values in the United States and around the world. Among Jewish advocacy organizations, AJC is the leader in the global arena. We are known for our unparalleled access to diplomats, government officials, and faith leaders in more than 100 countries. In addition to our New York headquarters and Office of Policy and Diplomatic Affairs in Washington, D.C., AJC has offices across the U.S. and around the globe and maintains partnerships with Jewish communities worldwide.
The Director of AJC Central Europe provides leadership, management, and vision for the AJC Central Europe Office, ensuring that the work of the Central Europe office is aligned with AJC’s mission and annual priorities; represents AJC’s interests in the region as the “go-to” Jewish communal organization for the governments, foreign ministries and thought leaders.
The Director is responsible for all matters relating to execution of AJC’s mission in the region including promoting AJC’s mission and program as it relates to enhancing transatlantic partnerships, bilateral relations with Israel and attitudes toward Israel; the fight against antisemitism, extremism, and against anti-democratic and xenophobic movements. The Director is responsible for AJC’s advocacy efforts in Poland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Czech Republic, Hungary, and Slovakia, in partnership with AJC colleagues in the US and Europe, who have experience and relationships within the region.
The Director, AJC Central Europe does all of this while adhering to AJC’s core values: Respect, Teamwork, Integrity, Excellence, and Accountability.
Responsibilities
Diplomatic Outreach:
Cultivate meaningful and long-term relationships with senior government officials, Ministers of Foreign Affairs, rising political figures, and other thought and policy leaders, assuring AJC access to the highest levels of government in the region.
Communicate regularly with governmental officials on issues salient to AJC.
Be the AJC “expert” on political affairs in the geographic area and provide analysis to the CEO and lay leadership on current events and arising issues.
Serve as liaison between AJC and local Jewish communities.
Administration and Management
Build an office from the ground up.
Hire and supervise staff and interns to support and execute the mission of AJC in the region.
Oversee the establishment of office protocols and assure their alignment with AJC policies and protocols.
Ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
Work in close collaboration with the Director of AJC Europe and European team on shared agendas.
Work with Marketing and Communications to develop branded materials for the new office.
Engage in public speaking opportunities.
Publish blogs, essays, opinion pieces, OpEds, letters, and other media.
Develop and maintain an online and social media strategy to advance AJC’s agenda.
Leadership Development and Fundraising
Identify potential donors and help raise money to support; recruit existing and prospective donors and lay leaders to engage in Global Forum, AJC missions, and other national events.
Establish a board of advisors in collaboration with the Development Department and Chief Operating Officer.
Personal Qualifications and core competencies:
An undergraduate degree is required. Master’s degree preferred.
At least seven years management experience with a commitment to a collaborative leadership style.
Experience managing staff and department(s).
An entrepreneurial mindset and ability to work independently.
Capacity to work on multiple tasks and projects simultaneously and set priorities.
The ability to work collaboratively and to encourage teamwork and shared responsibility among staff members.
Excellent written, verbal and listening skills.
A demonstrated commitment to the highest ethical standards and values consistent with those of AJC.
Fluency in English and Polish or other Central or Eastern European language.
A high regard for, and knowledge of, diplomacy and diplomatic protocol.
Success in fundraising and “friend-raising.”
Excellent communication skills, especially across all levels of the organization and pleasant demeanor.
Demonstrated maturity, situational awareness, and outstanding interpersonal skills.
Track record of demonstrating sound judgment by making appropriate decisions and knowing when to take initiative.
Commitment to AJC’s global mission and familiarity with the Jewish community.
AJC requires all staff to be fully vaccinated against COVID 19, unless one has a legally recognized reason for exemption.
