Schneider to leave JNF top job
Rob Schneider has been the National CEO of JNF Australia for the last 13 years driving the JNF vision and its many achievements. After 13 years of dedicated service in this role, Rob has decided to relinquish his position as National CEO and is likely to take on a regional role within the broader KKL-JNF organisation.
Schneider said: “I have loved my time working with JNF Australia and feel very passionate and committed to the work that we do but after 13 years I believe it is time for someone new to take JNF Australia into the next phase of its journey and for me to apply myself to new challenges.
There are so many projects, people and places that have been a highlight for me over my years with the JNF, some stand outs include:
• Assisting to implement environmental projects across Israel that have changed the quality of life and provided opportunities for sustainable population growth. In particular JNF’s projects in regions such as Shlomi in the North, Emek Hefer in the Centre, and Bnei Shimon, Sha’ar HaNegev and the Arava in the South
• The Yarkon River and Surrounds Rehabilitation project which helped heal the wounds of the 1997 Maccabiah bridge collapse and paved the way for projects in the region such as the Yarkon wetlands and the proposed Rosh Tzippor Bird Observatory.
• The creation of the ANZAC Trail. As a relatively “new” Australian playing an instrumental role in this project is something that helped me gain a better understanding of the commitment of Australia to peace and freedom and the special relationship between Australia and the State of Israel.”
Michael Naphtali, National President of JNF Australia, said: “Rob has brought enormous vision and passion to the role. He has contributed significantly to the success of JNF. He truly “walks the talk” in his dedication to the environment and Israel and we are delighted that his commitment and experience will remain with the organisation.
KKL-JNF has constantly changed and rejuvenated itself over its 110 year existence. We remain committed to growth and change and this involves continuing to revitalise the organisation and engage dynamic and talented people to be part of the JNF team. Accordingly we will recruit a new National CEO to drive our vision and expand our vital work”.
He added: “We sincerely thank Rob for his outstanding dedication, tireless service and wonderful achievements and looking to the future we will embark on renewal and change which is a part of every healthy & dynamic organisation”
Other changes at JNF which will further enhance the organisation are the appointment of the new Victorian shlicha Mickey Sahar who has replaced Joe Krycer as Executive Director of JNF Victoria after 16 years of outstanding leadership; and the appointment of Joe to head bequest activities in Victoria as well as the very exciting Water Sensitive Cities initiative – a bilateral project between Israel/Australia which is the very latest in water policy on how we make our cities sustainable into the future.
A JNF spokesman said: “JNFA is as relevant today as ever and demonstrates tangible outcomes in its work. It facilitates bilateral environmental projects that benefit Australia and Israel and is at the forefront of cutting edge environmental research & technology that offers solutions to global environmental problems.”