New JLC chief Jonathan Goldstein formally sworn in

Jonathan Goldstein has been formally elected chair of the Jewish Leadership Council at a meeting of the organisation’s council tonight.

The philanthropist, who was unopposed after his only challenger pulled out of the race, succeeds Sir Mick Davis. Two new trustees, Jewish Care chairman Steven Lewis and Hilda Worth, Chair of Jewish Women’s Aid were also voted in after four candidates put themselves forward.

Goldstein, who currently chairs the Partnerships for Jewish Schools, last month presented an eight-point plan to overhaul the community, at the centre of which is a determination to save millions of pounds by pooling resources and eradicating waste among the 2,000 charities currently operating. He also set his sights on “building bridges” with charedim and bringing on board more women and people from LGBT communities.

Goldstein said: “I am honoured to take on the role of JLC Chair and am excited about the opportunity to take the organisation forward. We have an excellent Board of Trustees, a group of unique and committed member organisations, and a professional team who I look forward to working with in a collaborative, coordinated and considered way in the service of our community.”

Simon Johnson, Chief Executive of the JLC, said: “I am delighted to welcome Jonathan Goldstein as the new Chair of the JLC. He has an exciting agenda and I and the professional team are excited to work with him to implement his Manifesto. I am also pleased to announce that Steven Lewis and Hilda Worth have been elected as Trustees and I look forward to working with them on the JLC Board of Trustees. I am confident that they, together with Jonathan, will continue to drive the JLC forward in the community and take it to new heights.”

Board of Deputies President Jonathan Arkush also welcomed his election, saying: “I would like to congratulate Jonathan. I look forward to us working together constructively and our two organisations cooperating in the interests of our community.”