New York, NY — Birthright Israel Foundation President & CEO, Israel “Izzy” Tapoohi, announced that he will be retiring in December 2023. Izzy is committed to providing BRIF the time necessary to conduct a thorough search for his successor and to ensuring a smooth transition of leadership.

“The last six years at Birthright Israel Foundation have been tremendously rewarding, both personally and professionally. I truly believe there is no greater Jewish program than Birthright Israel and with the merger with Onward Israel, we have even more to offer the younger generation. Our program has provided more than 800,000 Jewish young adults with a connection to their homeland, their history, and their community,” Tapoohi said. “In today’s current climate there is no greater gift that we can give our children and grandchildren than a firsthand experience in Israel and a connection to Judaism and knowing I have been a part of it fills me with pride.”

During his time at Birthright Israel Foundation, Tapoohi spearheaded an organizational restructuring, which helped to meaningfully increase the organization’s general campaign. He also led the launch of digital marketing and planned giving campaigns.

“Izzy has been a true asset to our team in Israel and his passion and love for our program is evident. Izzy is not only my partner, but he is my friend and while I am sad to see him retire from this role, I look forward to him coming back home to Israel,” said Gidi Mark, Birthright Israel International CEO.

“Birthright Israel Foundation is not just a job for Izzy, it is part of his heart. His dedication to our program and our staff will be missed, but he has earned his retirement,” shared Phil de Toledo, Birthright Israel Foundation’s Chair of the Board. “Izzy’s successor is inheriting a strong organization and dedicated team. We look forward to welcoming a new President & CEO and continuing to build on the organization’s accomplishments. The Board is committed to taking this program to new heights.”

Prior to Birthright Israel Foundation, Izzy served as the Executive Chairman of the Board of Bezeq, Israel’s telecommunications provider, and most recently, he served as President & CEO of Israel Bonds.

“We will be conducting a global search focused on leaders who are passionate not only about our mission but about the future of Birthright Israel Foundation,” continued Phil de Toledo. Birthright Israel Foundation has established a search committee and engaged the services of Heidrick & Struggles, a premier provider of senior-level executive search, leadership consulting, and culture-shaping worldwide, to conduct a search for the new President & CEO. Nominations and expressions of interest can be sent to [email protected].

About Birthright Israel Foundation

Birthright Israel Foundation raises funds in the United States to support Birthright Israel, an educational trip that ensures every eligible young Jewish adult around the world, especially the less connected, is given the opportunity to visit Israel and strengthen their Jewish identity.

About Birthright Israel

Birthright Israel is the largest educational tourism organization in the world that aims to provide every Jewish young adult with the opportunity to have a transformational experience in Israel that strengthens Jewish identity and connection to the Jewish community and Israel. Birthright Israel offers multiple short- and mid-length programs and since its inception in 1999, more than 800,000 young Jewish adults from 68 countries have received this gift of a 10-day trip, introducing them to the country’s ancient roots and modern wonders and allowing them to discover their own Jewish identity. Additionally, more than 10,000 people have attended internships, academic studies, and fellowships through Onward Israel, and over 1,000 Jewish young adults have attended the highly selective Excel Fellowship and are now part of the global Birthright Israel Excel Fellows community.

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