The St. Louis Jewish Community Center (the J) has named Steven Rosenzweig as its new president and CEO, effective in late November. A longtime leader in the St. Louis nonprofit sector, Rosenzweig returns to the J after previously serving as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Chief Operating Officer (COO) from 2006 to 2015. He takes over from Lynn Wittels, who retired in February.
Rosenzweig, who most recently served as CFO of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. His connection with the J spans nearly two decades, including six years on the board, where he contributed to the organization’s growth and community-building efforts.
“Our search for the next president and CEO of the J was wide, deep and long. Our patience for the ideal candidate paid off,” said Monte Sandler, board chair of the J. “(Steven) is passionate about our mission and believes strongly in ensuring that the J remains the town square of the St. Louis Jewish community. As Board Chair, I look forward to working with Steven to set the strategic direction for the agency and then executing to make sure we accomplish our goals.”
Immediate focus
As Rosenzweig takes on his new role, he says his first priority is to listen and engage with the community.
“My immediate priority is to listen and learn from staff and the broader community,” Rosenzweig said. “I’m eager to hear firsthand what the J means to people and how we can best serve their needs. While my experience as CFO and COO has provided valuable insights, I approach this role with a fresh perspective.”
Rosenzweig said he’s fortunate to be joining an already vibrant, well-supported organization, which gives him the time to shape his leadership approach.
Leadership approach
Rosenzweig said working under Wittels at the J and Marie-Hélène Bernard at the Symphony Orchestra gave him a deeper understanding of mission-driven organizations and prepared him for this new role.
“I believe in leading by example, prioritizing open communication, honesty, empathy, team empowerment and adaptability,” he said. “I anticipate a shorter ramp-up period because I’m already familiar with many staff members, board members and donors. But I recognize the J has evolved since I left, and I’ve grown professionally over the past decade.”
Challenges and opportunities for the J
One of the key challenges Rosenzweig sees for the J is adapting to the changing needs of the Jewish community. He views the J’s role as a cornerstone of Jewish life in St. Louis and is eager to work with the board and community leaders to strengthen those bonds further.
“Serving the entire Jewish community amidst shifting demographics and evolving interests is one of our biggest challenges,” he said. “But this also presents an opportunity. The J’s programs and facilities are unmatched and we play a vital role in bringing the community together.”
Vision for the future
In his first 90 days, Rosenzweig plans to focus on connecting with members, staff and the wider community.
“I plan to spend time in our facilities, interacting with members and gaining insights into their experiences,” Rosenzweig said. “I want to be a visible presence in the community. The J aims to be the town square of the Jewish community, and it’s essential we continually assess who is and isn’t represented in that space.”
He plans to focus on strengthening community ties, fostering inclusivity, and ensuring the J’s long-term sustainability.
“As I step forward in this exciting new chapter, I look forward to reconnecting with long-time staff, meeting new team members and working closely with the board to ensure the J continues to enrich lives, build community, promote inclusivity and create meaningful Jewish experiences,” he said.