Elliot Brandt, the vice CEO of AIPAC, has been named the pro-Israel lobby’s new CEO.
The nearly 30-year veteran of the group “thoroughly understands the strategic challenges and opportunities facing AIPAC, possesses the skills and insight necessary to successfully lead us forward and demonstrates deep passion for, and commitment to, our work to strengthen and expand the U.S.-Israel relationship,” AIPAC stated.
Brandt will succeed Howard Kohr when the latter retires at the end of the year.
“In each phase of his AIPAC career—starting in San Francisco, moving to Los Angeles and then to our Washington, D.C. headquarters—Elliot has repeatedly built and led successful teams that have consistently met the strategic goals set by the board,” AIPAC stated.
Under Brandt’s leadership “overall organizational and political fundraising have doubled, and Elliot has played an integral role in driving our new political strategy,” AIPAC added. “He has been at the center of AIPAC’s policy discussion on a daily basis, working directly with his colleagues and policymakers to ensure our legislative objectives are advanced.”
William Daroff, CEO of the Officer of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, told JNS that Brandt is “the perfect pick to succeed the iconic Howard Kohr as CEO of AIPAC.”
“Elliot is a once-in-a-generation leader who is articulate, strategic and above all, committed to the Jewish people and the safety and security of the State of Israel,” Daroff said.
Brandt’s “steady hand will lead the pro-Israel community to sustain and grow the overwhelming support of the American people for a strong and vibrant U.S.-Israel relationship” amid trying times, according to Daroff.
“We are excited to welcome him to the table of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations,” he added.