Julie Gibbs is leaving her position as Vice President of Development at the Jewish Federation of St. Louis to become the Vice President and Chief Philanthropy Officer for the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra.

With the move, Gibbs’ career is coming full circle, as she worked the first 10 years of her career at the SLSO in the marketing and development departments.

“I couldn’t pass up this unique opportunity to go back to another passion of mine, the orchestra and Powell Hall.” Gibbs said in a statement released by Federation. “I love the work of Federation and I will be staying involved through Women’s Philanthropy and other volunteer opportunities.”

Gibbs previously held positions at Federation as Director of Major Gifts and Affinity Groups and Director of Women’s Philanthropy. In her eight years there, she led growth within Women’s Philanthropy and helped create its now-signature women’s campaign and community event, L’Chaim!

Key To Expansion Efforts

Gibbs was a key part of the team that successfully raised money for the expansion of the St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum, which will reopen later this year.

In her VP role, Gibbs also guided the team as it exceeded goals in annual fundraising and planned giving, and has aligned the team around three key initiatives: inspiring philanthropy, planned giving, and supplemental/targeted giving, which will continue after her departure.

Brian Herstig, Federation’s president and CEO, said he is sorry to see Gibbs go.

“Julie is an incredible professional and colleague and has been instrumental in our success at Federation in so many ways. She’s been a key part of our leadership team, a trusted adviser for our donors, and an important member of our community,” Herstig said.

Federation has begun an immediate search for its next Vice President of Development.

Gibbs’ last day at Federation is Feb. 4.