Jewish Community Professionals’ Conference

Over one hundred and fifty Community Professionals came together for the 4th Annual Jewish Community Professionals’ Conference at JW3 in London on Thursday.

This was the largest ever gathering of its kind in the UK and brought together staff from over 50 Jewish organisations to learn, network and share best practice.

In the morning attendees heard from Sarah Vibert, Chief Executive of NCVO (The National Council for Voluntary Organisations) on ensuring a positive workplace culture within third sector organisations, as well as a session on how Artificial Intelligence can benefit charities heard from digital consultant Zoe Amar, Phil Dearson of WPNC Agency and Russell Findlay of the Speakers Trust.  Session options also included a panel discussion on working within the Jewish community with Yvie Curtis of Maccabi GB, Eli Gaventa of UJIA, Hannah Gerson of the United Synagogue and Jamie Shone from Jewish Care which was expertly facilitated by Masorti Judaism CEO Rachel Sklan and an Action Learning Set masterclass with Organisational Development Consultant, Cheryl Brodie.

In the afternoon participants could select from a session with JLC Co-CEO, Michelle Janes alongside Eli Gaventa of UJIA who explored the data and recommendations behind a new piece of research into Jewish leadership journeys in the UK.  Participants also had the opportunity to hear from Zoe Amar on developing digital strategy, explore the difference between leadership and management with Cheryl Brodie, as well as hear from award winning Trewin Restorick, founder of Sizzle on the importance of collaboration. 

As part of the conference, JLC Co-CEO Michelle Janes also talked about the launch of a new initiative in partnership with USA based organisation, Leading Edge, that will provide an Employee Experience Survey to community organisations and professionals in July this year.  This first of its kind opportunity will be used to understand the community professional landscape and will support the JLC in strengthening the future of community organisations and leadership.

The year’s Conference is split over two dates, with an event in Manchester for northern based Jewish professionals due to be held for the second year running on 27th June.  Bookings are still open for Manchester.