United Synagogue appoints first female chief executive

The United Synagogue’s former director of communities and strategy  has been named its new chief executive – the first female to lead the organisation.

Borehamwood and Elstree shul member Jo Grose will commence the role in February. She is also chair of Yavneh College.

She replaces Steven Wilson after his nearly nine years in the post.

Grose said: “There is enormous potential within the United Synagogue to connect British Jews to each other, to their communities, to their heritage and to Jewish values, as well as to develop leaders for the future. I look forward to working closely with rabbinic, lay and professional colleagues to achieve all of this with the aim of strengthening Jewish life in the UK.”

Grose has ambitious plans to empower young adults to build communities that meet their needs and wants to attract and retain the best rabbinic couples.

Michael Goldstein, president of the United Synagogue, said: ” Jo impressed the recruitment panel with her clear vision for the United Synagogue and management experience, combined with her passion for our work and desire to take the charity forward to engage even more of our members.”