The American Jewish Committee (AJC) announced on Monday that it has appointed Jewish Democratic congressman and pro-Israel activist Ted Deutch as the organization's next chief executive officer, effective October 1, 2022.
"Rep. Deutch was unanimously selected by AJC's 28-member Executive Council, the organization's most senior lay body, following an extensive national search for a successor to AJC CEO David Harris, who has led the organization since 1990. Mr. Harris will remain AJC CEO until Rep. Deutch assumes the role, after which Mr. Harris will stay on as a consultant for one year to assist in a seamless transition," the AJC said in a statement.
AJC President Harriet P. Schleifer said, "Ted's deep and lifelong commitment to the Jewish community, Israel, and to the protection of democratic values is obvious to all who know him. His shared passion for AJC's mission and vision makes him a natural fit to advance our critical global work and to build on David Harris's extraordinary legacy."
Deutch said that he "couldn't be more excited to passionately lead AJC at this critical moment in history and feel immensely privileged to have the opportunity to build on the historic efforts and impact of David Harris, past and present AJC leaders, and the entire team at the organization, who are among the most dedicated professionals in the Jewish world."
Deutch and his wife of 30 years, Jill, have lived and worked in South Florida since 1998, where she is the Director of Development of Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach. Together, they have three children, Gabby, Serena, and Cole.
