Rabbi Rick Jacobs, president of the Union for Reform Judaism, announced that Jen Algire will join the URJ’s executive leadership team as executive vice president. Algire succeeds Julie Lerner, who is retiring after a distinguished tenure in the role since January 2017.
The URJ represents 825 congregations and inspires nearly 2 million individuals across North America and beyond. Algire’s appointment comes as the URJ continues its mission to create vibrant, inclusive Jewish communities.
“Jen is a passionate, thoughtful and visionary leader with a proven track record of driving transformational change in organizations,” said Jacobs. “Her leadership style, rooted in fostering collaboration, trust and a deep sense of belonging, makes her uniquely suited to lead the URJ forward during this pivotal time.”
Most recently, Algire served as president and CEO of the Greater Clark Foundation in central Kentucky, where she spearheaded efforts to advance civic engagement as a critical determinant of community well-being. Under her leadership since 2012, GCF became a recognized catalyst for fostering inclusion, building trust, and convening diverse stakeholders to address complex societal challenges. Algire’s ability to align purpose with actionable goals has positioned her as a sought-after leader in nonprofit and community-building spaces.
Prior to her role there, Algire served as chief of staff for Premier Inc. (NASDAQ: PINC), where she played a key role in driving organizational innovation and strategic growth.
Algire is currently treasurer and chair of the finance committee at her synagogue, Ohavay Zion Synagogue, in Lexington, Ky. She has held leadership roles for the Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte and was awarded a Jewish Federation of North America Young Leadership Award in 2009.
“Jen’s wealth of experience and her dedication to helping organizations realize their full potential will be instrumental as we chart the next chapter of the URJ’s journey,” added Jacobs.
“With the strong support and trust of our lay leaders, she is the perfect leader to guide our community toward a vibrant and thriving future,” said URJ board chair Shelley Niceley Groff.
Algire officially assumes her new role on April 1, 2025.
