Israeli-American Council CEO Elan S. Carr will conclude his term on September 30, the Los Angeles-based organization announced on Tuesday, as its board prepares to launch a comprehensive search for his successor. Carr said he plans to pursue new challenges after three years in the position.
Carr will continue working with the IAC in a strategic capacity, helping promote its mission and expand its nationwide impact, the organization said. The IAC Board of Trustees said it would oversee the leadership search and work to ensure a seamless transition.
Carr says timing is right for new challenges
“My journey with the IAC began many years ago when my father was one of the founders of the IAC, alongside a group that continues to guide and lead this incredible organization,” Carr said. “The IAC leadership and team built something that far exceeded their initial expectations.”
Carr thanked the organization’s leadership, supporters, volunteers, staff, and the Adelson family for their contributions. He said that after serving as CEO for three years, he believed it was the right time to “seek new challenges, continue growing, and explore exciting opportunities ahead.”
A former US special envoy to monitor and combat antisemitism and Los Angeles deputy district attorney, Carr began his IAC tenure in October 2023. He assumed the role days before the Hamas-led October 7 attack on Israel.
IAC highlights post-October 7 response
According to the IAC, Carr led the organization through a period of significant challenges and expansion, including its nationwide mobilization following the October 7 attack. The organization also launched campaigns addressing anti-Israel activity and antisemitism on college campuses and developed programs for schools and local communities.
The IAC said it expanded opportunities for community engagement, education, leadership development, and connections with Israel during Carr’s tenure. It also sharpened its focus on building a united Israeli-American community and strengthening ties between the Jewish people, Israel, and the United States.
Recent IAC initiatives have included joining the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations and holding Celebrate Israel events across communities throughout the United States. Carr also represented the organization at its America 250 celebration in Tel Aviv in June.
Board credits Carr with lasting impact
“Elan’s unwavering commitment to our mission, community, and team has left a lasting impact,” IAC Board co-chairs Tal Shuster and Dr. Avi Almozlino said. They credited Carr with leading the organization with “strength, vision, and compassion” following October 7.
The co-chairs said Carr would remain part of the IAC community through his new strategic role. They added that the board was preparing to welcome a new CEO and build on the organization’s existing programs and achievements.
“The board is fully committed to further advancing the IAC mission and broadening its impact in the years ahead,” Shuster and Almozlino said.