World ORT appoints new chief executive
Former Deputy Ambassador at the Israeli Embassy in Angola, Dov Ben-Shimon calls new appointment a 'true privilege'
Global Jewish education organisation World ORT has appointed Dov Ben-Shimon as its new chief executive, with former Israeli diplomat describing himself as “deeply honoured and humbled” to take up the role.
With three decades of service to Israel and the Jewish world, including senior leadership roles across the non-profit and communal sectors, Ben-Shimon previously led the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ in the US for a decade, following a distinguished career at the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC).
In his new role, Ben-Shimon will be based in ORT’s New York office and oversee its global network of programmes and national organisations.
He said: “I am deeply honoured and humbled to be appointed the next CEO of World ORT, an organisation with a profound and storied legacy spanning nearly 150 years.
“This appointment is a true privilege, and I am excited to begin this journey with our students, educators, professionals, supporters, and partners worldwide. ORT has always been at the forefront of innovation, adapting to the needs of the Jewish people and the world. I am proud to have visited many of its schools, programs, and institutions during my career.
“The story of ORT is one of resilience, transformation, and a steadfast belief in the power of education to create opportunity and build a better future. I am committed to upholding this powerful legacy. As we look ahead, we do so at a time of both great challenge and immense opportunity for our global Jewish community. The imperative to foster a strong and vibrant Jewish future is more urgent than ever. In this context, World ORT’s mission has never been more vital.”
Robert Grey, Chair of World ORT, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Dov as our new CEO. His leadership, vision, and deep commitment to Jewish education and community life make him ideally suited to guide World ORT into its next chapter. Dov understands both the local and global dimensions of our work, and he brings a passion for innovation and inclusion that will strengthen ORT’s impact worldwide.
“We look forward to working with him as we continue to empower young people through education and opportunity.
“As we welcome Dov, we also bid farewell to our current CEO, Jim Lodge, who is retiring. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Jim for his outstanding service over the past year. A loyal and dedicated member of the ORT family for many years – both at World ORT and ORT America – we wish him every happiness and success in his retirement.”
Ben-Shimon’s career includes roles as director of resources for the Israeli Reform Movement in Jerusalem, and Chargé d’Affaires (Deputy Ambassador) at the Israeli Embassy in Angola.
He also served as assistant spokesman to former Israeli Foreign Minister Shimon Peres, and most recently as interim chief executive of the Community Security Service, a Jewish defence organization in the United States.
Born in England, Ben-Shimon moved to Israel at the age of 18, serving as both an Air Force rescue medic and Infantry combat medic in the IDF.
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