World Jewish Relief chief Paul Anticoni to step down after 21 years

Paul Anticoni has announced he will step down as Chief Executive of World Jewish Relief in June 2027, bringing to a close more than two decades at the helm of the UK Jewish community’s leading international aid agency.

In a message to supporters, Anticoni confirmed he would leave the role after 21 years, saying the time had come for new leadership to guide the organisation into its next chapter.

“After a wonderful 21 years, I will be stepping down as Chief Executive of World Jewish Relief in June 2027,” he said. “Leading this organisation has been an immense privilege, and I feel it is now time for a new Chief Executive to take on this position, bring their ideas and new energy to ensure we can deliver on our mission for yet another generation.”

He added that the extended notice period would allow for a smooth transition, with trustees set to begin the search for his successor in summer 2026.

“While I know June 2027 seems like a long way off, I wanted to give sufficient notice so that we can plan ahead sensibly,” he said.

Anticoni stressed that his focus would remain firmly on the charity’s work over the coming months, particularly as demand continues to rise across multiple regions.

“Over the next 14 months, I will continue to lead World Jewish Relief with the same passion and dedication that has always been central to my tenure,” he said. “I am more determined than ever to expand our assistance to people in crisis, within and beyond the Jewish community, from Ukraine to Israel and from Ethiopia to the UK.”

His announcement came alongside a stark update on the ongoing war in Ukraine, where the charity continues to support thousands affected by the conflict. Anticoni highlighted a recent wave of attacks in which hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles were launched in a single day, including a strike near a Jewish community centre in Zaporizhzhia supported by the organisation. No injuries were reported.

Paying tribute, World Jewish Relief trustee Maurice Helfgott said Anticoni’s leadership had transformed the organisation into a “strong and effective” force with the capacity to respond to crises worldwide.

“Paul’s leadership over the last 20 years has shaped World Jewish Relief today – a strong and effective organisation with a clear mission and values,” he said. “His passion and commitment… enables us to reach and support hundreds of thousands of people, and we are immensely grateful for the incredible part of his life that he has given to this special organisation.”

He added that Anticoni would continue to lead with “trademark energy and intensity” until his departure, as the board begins the process of identifying a successor.

Anticoni joined World Jewish Relief in 2006 following a long career in international humanitarian work, including senior roles at the British Red Cross and field operations in conflict zones across Africa, Asia and the Balkans.