The Jewish Agency for Israel announces its first woman CEO

Amira Aharonovich, 47, has served in a variety of management positions since she joined the organization after completion of her IDF service.

By JERUSALEM POST STAFF
Updated: DECEMBER 24, 2018 02:43
Amira Aharonovich (photo credit: Courtesy)
Amira Aharonovich
(photo credit: Courtesy)
The Jewish Agency for Israel has promoted two of its high-level employees to senior positions. Amira Aharonovich has been appointed as the first women to serve as CEO and director general, while Josh Schwarcz has been appointed director of external relations, in addition to his current role as secretary general.
“I am leading the Jewish Agency toward a period of significant change, together with our excellent management and employees,” JAFI chairman Isaac Herzog said. “I’m confident Amira will be an outstanding CEO who will bring great energy to the position and our organization. I’m also certain Josh will draw on his tremendous experience to lead his new areas of responsibility.”
Aharonovich, 47, will begin serving in her new role on January 1, and is expected to be formally approved for the position when the organization’s board of governors convenes in February. She has served several management positions since she joined JAFI after completing her IDF service, including as director of partnerships, head of the finance division, and vice president of strategy, planning and content. Most recently, she was deputy director general and chief operating officer.
Schwarcz, 48, has served as secretary general since 2001. His responsibilities will now include overseeing the organization’s international relations. Schwarcz began his work at JAFI soon after immigrating from Canada in the early 1990s.
The report was written in cooperation with The Jewish Agency.