Limmud announces new chairman to take over at the end of the year

The man who took Limmud to the Far East and Latin America is to become the organisation’s new chairman, on a promise to expand it further.

David Hoffman, a barrister specialising in human rights, is well-known in the UK for reviving Limmud Manchester, and will succeed current chairman Kevin Sefton at the end of the year.

“He has set the bar high,” Hoffman said of Sefton this week. “My goal is to build upon and expand Limmud’s unique strengths in training young leaders, convening Jews of all stripes, and fostering discussion and debate.” 

He added: “We will continue to spread Limmud’s model of celebrating all things Jewish here in the UK and wherever there are Jews, inspiring them to move forward in their Jewish journeys.”

Hoffman has held Limmud leadership positions for ten years. He co-chaired Limmud Fest, served on the board of directors, and is immediate past chair of Limmud International, the team supporting Limmud groups outside the UK. 

At home, Limmud is approaching its 35th Conference, its flagship event held over five days traditionally at the University of Warwick. Due to growing numbers, however, a new venue in Birmingham has been found for 2015.