Who We Are:The Orthodox Union (OU) is one of the largest Orthodox Jewish organizations in the United States. Founded in 1898, the OU supports a network of synagogues, youth programs, Jewish and Religious Zionist advocacy programs, programs for the disabled, localized religious study programs, and international units. The OU maintains a kosher certification service, whose circled U symbol, Ⓤ, is found on the labels of many kosher commercial and consumer food products.
About the OU Executive FellowshipThe OU Executive Fellowship is a
10-month professional development program for a selective cohort of post-college Jewish adults eager to explore and invest in initiatives that service the Jewish community – locally and globally. The Fellowship experience is full-time, paid, and blends OU department-specific work with cohort-based, hands-on learning opportunities beyond the walls of Headquarters. The Fellowship runs from September 1, 2026 – June 24, 2027.
Position Summary:The Board Relations & Governance Fellow will support the work of the OU’s Board of Directors and lay leadership at a pivotal moment, including preparation for the OU Convention in February 2027, when the next Board of Directors will be nominated and confirmed.Responsibilities: - Actively support meetings of the OU Board of Directors, Executive Committee, and select committees
- Assist with preparation of board materials, agendas, briefing documents, and meeting logistics
- Draft internal summaries, background memos, and leadership materials for senior staff and lay leaders
- Track board actions, resolutions, attendance, and follow-up items
- Support governance processes related to the Board Leadership Accelerator, including:
- Governance policy review
- Maintaining accurate records of board membership & committee participation
- Assist with planning and coordination related to the OU Convention and board transition process, including:
- Board member nomination and vetting
- Leadership onboarding materials
- Delegate confirmation & participation
- Board records for the new term
- Conduct research and special projects in support of governance and leadership initiatives
Qualifications : - Bachelor’s degree
- Strong writing, organizational, and analytical skills
- High level of discretion, professionalism, and attention to detail
- Interest in nonprofit governance, leadership development, or Jewish communal service
- Familiarity with the Orthodox Jewish community is strongly preferred
Salary and Benefits:
The salary range for this position is $43,000. Health, Dental & Vision Insurance:The OU offers health insurance through an Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangement (ICHRA). Instead of a single group plan, employees have the freedom to choose their own health insurance plan that fits their personal and family needs. The OU contributes a generous monthly amount directly toward your premium, making coverage more flexible, affordable, and tailored to you. Employees enrolled in our health plan also receive an annual BeniComp stipend, a supplemental benefit that reimburses eligible medical, pharmaceutical, dental, and vision expenses. In addition, the OU offers employees group dental and vision insurance through MetLife. Additional Benefits and Perks:- 10 Paid sick days
- 10 Paid vacation days
- Paid Jewish and Federal holidays
- Short Fridays to accommodate for Sabbath observance
- Free life and disability insurance
- Discounted continuing education opportunities
- 403(b) retirement plan with a 5% employer match after 3 years (requires a minimum 2% employee contribution)
