Board treasurer Crowne announces he is stepping down from role

Board of Deputies treasurer Ben Crowne has announced he is stepping down from the role.

In a message sent to Deputies, Crowne said he “regrettably” announced the decision to leave the post he was elected unopposed to in May 2021.

But he added he would continue to remain a deputy, representing Bevis Marks synagogue.

In a statement Crowne wrote:”Regrettably, I am writing to inform you that I will be stepping down as Board Treasurer.
“As well as the “bread and butter” areas of my Division’s work – finance, fundraising and risk – I have greatly valued the other projects which brought me in touch with many of you: community outreach, deputy engagement, hybridising our meetings, the Board Plan and our long-term strategy.

“It has been a privilege to work with so many dedicated and engaged people, and to help facilitate the range of perspectives and values which are at the heart of our representative nature.

” I am really proud of the work which we as an organisation have achieved, and want to thank all my colleagues – in particular the Honorary Officers and the members of the F&O Division – for all their hard work, insight and support.

“I especially want to highlight and acknowledge the excellence and dedication of the Board’s professional team.

“I will be remaining as a Deputy and will look forward to continuing to see many of you at plenary and other meetings. ”

Crowne had previously served on a number of key Board committees, including the Finance and Organisation Division and the Constitution Working Group. He was previously been the Deputy for Limmud.

In 2020 Ben was ranked 5th in the Jewish News’ Forty Under 40, which described him as “the go-to project manager in the Jewish community”.

He works professionally as a forensic accountant.

Responding to the surprise move, Marie van der Zyl, the Board’s President said of Crowne:”I would like to thank him for his work as Treasurer of the Board, where he has worked diligently to keep our finances in good order and to ensure the smooth running of our operations.

“I am glad that he will continue to serve as a Deputy and that our organisation will therefore still benefit from his knowledge and dedication to our community.”

Chief Executive Michael Weiger also confirmed the Board” will soon start the process to elect a new treasurer.”