Liberal Judaism appoints two new interim directors

Liberal Judaism has appointed Rabbi Charley Baginsky and Shelley Shocolinsky-Dwyer as joint interim directors to take over from Rabbi Danny Rich who stepped down earlier this year.

A former operations director, Shocolinsky-Dwyer will control finances and day-to-day affairs while Baginsky will cover external affairs, communal relationships, strategic development partnerships and fundraising.

Rabbi Aaron Goldstein, chair of the Liberal Conference of Rabbis and Cantors, said the appointments gave “continuity” to the movement, which has been led by Rich for 15 years.

The pair recently oversaw Liberal Judaism’s flagship Biennial Weekend, in which a record 1,500 registered delegates took part, and have now been told that this arrangement will run until the end of March 2021.

Baginsky said: “It is a privilege to be able to lead Liberal Judaism in this interim period and that I am able to do it in collaboration with my colleague and friend feels like an additional privilege.”

The mutual admiration continued with Shocolinsky-Dwyer, who said: “I am delighted to be taking on this role alongside Charley, who is brilliant and inspiring.”

Goldstein said: “In uncertain times we are fortunate to have those within Liberal Judaism who provide skilful continuity, organisationally and strategically.”