Dan Springer to farewell JNF
JNF Australia CEO Dan Springer announced that he plans to step down at the end of the year, after almost 11 years in the role.
Dan feels that while the job has been a labour of love, the time is right to hand over the keys to younger leadership. During his tenure Dan, in partnership with the JNF National Board, oversaw significant growth in the organisation’s fundraising, projects, community engagement, educational programs and partnerships.
Dan’s previous commercial and corporate experience has been brought to bear throughout his time at JNF, successfully negotiating a number of major agreements to enhance JNF’s long-term future. This included a key trademark deal, major gift and bequest settlements and a landmark innovation centre in the Negev that will support start-ups in enviro-tech, agri-tech, energy and water management.
Together with the National Board, Dan led JNF’s quick pivot in early 2020 to a hybrid (digital/physical) operating and engagement model, helping it to navigate the global pandemic, with pioneering “virtual galas” which built upon a decade of very successful gala dinners. Another highlight of his service was the establishment of the ANZAC Museum in Be’er Sheva, officially opened by the Prime Ministers of Australia and Israel on the Centenary of the Light Horse Charge.
Over the last decade, JNF has achieved a more sustainable financial footing, enabling the implementation of over 50 key projects across the Negev and beyond.
The Board and the JNF Family have publicly thanked Dan for leading these efforts and significant contribution to JNF’s success.
A spokesperson for JNF said: “As we look to the future, we are confident that JNF will have continued success in building a strong Zionist community here in Australia whilst simultaneously helping to secure sustainable communities in the Negev and throughout Israel.”
Dan Springer told J-Wire: “It has always been my love for Israel which has fuelled my desire to make a success of whatever I did.”