Jewish Federation CEO will step down

As changes confront the Columbus Jewish community, its leaders see them as opportunities to decide what the next 10 years will hold.

The opportunity began to take shape when Gordon Hecker, CEO of the Columbus Jewish Federation, announced his resignation in a letter Thursday, citing a desire to take some time off and “enjoy life,” including traveling and spending time with family and friends before looking for another career opportunity in 2018.

Hecker has served as CEO of the federation since August 2012, and he plans to end his five-year tenure with the organization in August. A decision has yet to be made on the next CEO.

During his time as head of the federation, part of a national network of Jewish Federations that raise money for and support Jewish communities, Hecker has helped the organization raise more than $35 million, helped the free children’s program PJ Library grow to more than 1,000 children and improved the financial health of the organization.

Audrey Tuckerman, incoming chairwoman of the federation’s executive board, commended Hecker for his leadership.

“His leadership will be missed,” Tuckerman said. “He’s done a really admirable job putting the federation in a position of strength ... it’s in a much better place than it was ( before him).”

The strength of the organization allows it to consider what it wants to do next, Tuckerman said.

“Change allows us the opportunity to think strategically, and differently and boldly,” she said.

There are about 25,000 Jews in central Ohio, Tuckerman said, and the federation financially supports several local Jewish organizations. The federation plans to use constituents’ feedback to help shape its future.

The federation is crafting a leadership transition plan. After the federation has decided what it’s looking for in a leader, the search will begin, Tuckerman said.