United Hebrew Congregation has named Bryan Pearlman, a longtime educator and resident of St. Louis County, as executive director.

“We are all very excited to have him, excited about his energy and what he brings to the position,” Senior Rabbi Brigitte Rosenberg said. “Because he’s not coming from inside, he brings a fresh set of eyes, a fresh perspective, to the work we are doing.”

Laughing, Rosenberg added that though Pearlman originally is from Boston, he went to high school at Parkway North and has lived here ever since. 

“Not only can he answer that usual question but, because he knows St. Louis, he has certain insights,” she said.

Pearlman said the position is a dream job for him. 

“I am extremely excited,” he said. “What appeals to me most is being able to engage with and help grow the Jewish community. And there is such a family feel, an inclusive feel, about United Hebrew. I look forward to playing a role in many facets of the congregation.”

Pearlman lives in unincorporated St. Louis County with his wife, Lena, a clinical social worker in private practice, and their twins Matthew and Samantha, 17. 

Pearlman holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri, a master’s from Lindenwood University and a doctorate in education from Maryville University. Most recently, Pearlman was principal at Valley Park Elementary School. 

Previously, he served as a principal in Wright City and, prior to that, he worked as a teacher. He also has worked in public relations, development and charitable consulting for several United Way agencies. Pearlman has served as adjunct professor at Lindenwood University, and was named a 2014-2015 Peabody Energy Leader in Education. 

“There is a nice connection between being a principal and being executive director of a congregation,” Pearlman said. “It’s a full-time-plus position, a calling, with people all working for the betterment of the community.”

Pearlman said he was not looking for a job when he saw a notice about the opening at UH. 

“I was looking for information about a funeral when I saw the ad,” he said. “Right away, when I read the job description, I thought it sounded just like me.”

In a communication with members of the UH congregation, president Lexie Goldsmith wrote, “Bryan comes to UH with a strong background in administration and leadership.  His experience in managing the administrative functions for a school district – including staffing, finances, facilities and community relations – makes him well-suited to fill this important role in our congregation.” 

Pearlman had a surprise for the search committee. He told them that in the early ’90s, he and his wife taught religious school at United Hebrew. Now, he and his family all are members of the congregation.

Pearlman steps into the job this week.  

“I’m chomping at the bit to get started, to get to know everybody, to work with everybody,” Pearlman said. “United Hebrew is a great place, headed in a positive direction.”