Applications submitted through the Hillel International website will NOT be considered. To apply, please submit your application through the Sandler Search website linked HERE. 

Vice President, Philanthropy and Engagement

Hillel International

Role Overview

Hillel International seeks an experienced, dynamic, and results-driven fundraising leader to serve as its next Vice President of Philanthropy & Engagement. This high-impact opportunity seeks a seasoned major and principal gifts fundraiser to provide strategic vision and build a frontline giving program.

Reporting to the Chief External Affairs Officer (CEAO) and working closely with the Senior Vice President of Leadership Giving and the Vice President of Advancement, the VP will elevate Hillel International’s fundraising, leadership giving, and stakeholder engagement efforts during a moment of tremendous organizational significance.

The ideal candidate is a dynamic, purpose-driven relationship-builder, a strategic thinker, and a proactive fundraiser with a demonstrated record of securing six- and seven-figure gifts. They will design new approaches to donor engagement—especially for high-net-worth individuals and event-based fundraising—while cultivating a culture of partnership, clarity, and results across the advancement team.

For more information about this important work and vision, explore Hillel’s new strategic plan for 2025-2028.

What You’ll Do

Fundraising Strategy & Donor Development

• Develop and execute an integrated, sustainable fundraising strategy that drives both short-term and long-term growth in major and principal gifts.
• Deepen and diversify Hillel International’s funding base in the New York region by personally identifying, engaging, and stewarding high-net-worth individuals capable of making six- and seven-figure investments.
• Identity and build a portfolio of 25–40 major individual donors and prospects, cultivating meaningful long-term relationships that advance Hillel’s mission.
• Serve as a visible ambassador for Hillel International, representing the organization at key events, convenings, and high-level gatherings.
• Elevate Hillel’s visibility and strengthen its reputation among external stakeholders by cultivating influential relationships and opening new pipelines into donor communities.

Donor Engagement & Organizational Partnerships

• Build new engagement models—such as curated events, parlor meetings, and in-person experiences—that deepen donor understanding of Hillel’s work and global impact.
• Partner with advancement colleagues to develop high-quality materials, including proposals, pitch decks, and donor reports.
• Stay well-informed about Hillel International’s initiatives and strategic direction to effectively align donor interests with organizational needs.

Qualifications & Experience

The VP will bring:

• Extensive frontline fundraising experience: 10+ years in major and principal gifts with a strong record of securing six- and seven-figure commitments.
• Entrepreneurial portfolio building: Demonstrated success identifying, cultivating, and closing high-net-worth prospects and building a portfolio from the ground up.
• External relations & network-building: Strong ability to represent Hillel at key events, expand networks, and cultivate relationships across influential national donor communities.
• New York and National philanthropic knowledge: Familiarity with and networks within the greater New York and national philanthropic landscape, with the ability to navigate and engage high-impact individuals and institutions.
• Exceptional communication & storytelling: Clear, compelling, and mission-centered communication that inspires and connects with donors to convey Hillel’s impact and strategy.
• Passion for fundraising & impact: A deep commitment to and love of fundraising, paired with strategic thinking, sound judgment, and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Mission alignment: Strong alignment with Hillel’s purpose and cultural fluency—or the ability to quickly gain fluency—within the Jewish communal landscape.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree required.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS: This role requires domestic travel, conference attendance, and other activities.

COMPENSATION: The salary range for this role is $180,000–$210,000, depending on experience and location.

BENEFITS: A comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plan, Life, AD&D and Long-Term Disability (LTD) insurances, Flexible Spending accounts, generous vacation/sick time, and parental leave.

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