Rubin steps down as Labour Friends of Israel director
Popular campaigner says:'It's been the honour of my professional life to have spent the last 10 years at LFI'
Michael Rubin, director of Labour Friends of Israel, has stepped down from his role after a decade of service.
Having joined LFI in 2015, Rubin has, since 2020, guided the organisation through a period marked by both significant challenges and achievements.
During his tenure, he responded to the horrors of October 7 and its aftermath, while playing a key role in combating antisemitism within the Labour Party.
Jewish News understands that a new director will be confirmed in the near future. Rubin is believed to have taken up a position with a leading consultancy.
Confirming his exit, Rubin said: “It’s been the honour of my professional life to have spent the last 10 years at LFI. There have been times of enormous challenge, not least fighting against the terrible scourge of antisemitism. But I’m so proud of what the team achieved: investment in peacebuilding, banning the IRGC, and never shying away from our core principle that support for Israel is a Labour value.”
He added: “I’d particularly like to pay tribute to the wonderful honorary parliamentary chairs I’ve had the pleasure of working with: Joan Ryan, Louise Ellman, Steve McCabe, Jon Pearce and Mark Sewards. Their brave and principled leadership will forever be a source of inspiration to me.”
Adrian Cohen, lay chair of Labour Friends of Israel, said: “We are very grateful for the years of service that Michael has given to Labour Friends of Israel, often in very difficult and challenging circumstances. He has made an immense contribution to advancing the progressive case for Israel.”