Jerusalem Foundation UK appoints new chief executive

The Jerusalem Foundation UK has appointed Lesley King-Lewis as its new chief executive, succeeding Susan Winton, who is retiring after nearly 14 years leading the organisation.

King-Lewis brings more than 30 years of experience into the voluntary and philanthropic sectors, having held senior leadership roles at Action on Addiction, the Man Group Charitable Trust and the Benefact Trust.

Her appointment comes as the charity prepares to celebrate its postponed 60th anniversary in October.

Announcing the appointment, chairman Lord Leigh of Hurley paid tribute to Winton’s contribution to the organisation.

He said: “We wish Susan well in her well-deserved retirement. She has made an outstanding contribution to the Foundation and helped improve life for so many Jerusalemites through some very challenging times. Her endless enthusiasm and dynamism have inspired us all, and we will always be grateful.

“I am delighted to welcome Lesley King-Lewis, who brings with her great experience of the sector and a love of Jerusalem from her time spent studying there.

“The Jerusalem Foundation UK is a unique organisation connecting donors with specific projects that strengthen communities, nurture cultural life and invest in the next generation of leaders in Jerusalem – continuing a vision set out by our founder, the late Teddy Kollek.

“We look forward to welcoming our many friends to our postponed 60th Anniversary in October.”

During her time as chief executive, Winton helped strengthen the charity’s network of supporters across the UK while continuing its work connecting donors with projects that support communities, culture and future leadership across Jerusalem.

Reflecting on her tenure, she said: “It has been an enormous privilege to lead the Jerusalem Foundation UK, and I am incredibly proud of all that we have achieved. It has been a pleasure to work with such committed supporters in delivering our meaningful work across all of Jerusalem’s communities.

“I am delighted to be handing over to Lesley and have every confidence that the Foundation will continue to go from strength to strength.”

King-Lewis said she was honoured to be taking on the role.

“I am honoured to be joining the Jerusalem Foundation UK at such an important time,” she said. “The Foundation’s focus on strengthening communities, supporting creativity and developing future leaders across Jerusalem deeply resonates with me.

“I look forward to building on Susan’s remarkable legacy, working with our dedicated supporters, and helping to advance this vital work for all of the city’s communities.”

Founded by the late Teddy Kollek, the Jerusalem Foundation supports projects that strengthen communities, foster cultural life and invest in future leadership across Jerusalem’s diverse population.