Myra Salkinder appointed president of JCA

The Jewish Communal Appeal (JCA) has announced the appointment of Myra Salkinder as its new president, bringing more than four decades of business, governance and philanthropic experience to the leadership of the organisation.

Salkinder succeeds Ian Sandler, who steps down after six years as president, having provided strong leadership to JCA through a period of significant change and challenge for the community.

She has more than 40 years of executive and board experience across Australia and South Africa. Salkinder is currently CEO of the Kirsh Family Office Australia, a role she has held since 2016, following an extensive career with Kirsh Industries where she served as corporate executive, managing director and ultimately chairman.

Her experience spans business, investment, governance and philanthropy, with a longstanding commitment to strengthening the institutions and organisations that underpin vibrant communities.

Salkinder has also had a deep and longstanding connection with JCA. Prior to becoming president, she served as vice president and has been closely involved in JCA’s work having chaired the Allocations Committee two years ago as well as involvement as far back as 2016 when she sat on JCA’s Fundraising Committee.

Her appointment comes at an important time for JCA and the wider community. Following the significant changes to JCA’s governance and structure in 2026, the organisation is focused on strengthening its role and reach as the community’s central fundraiser, planner and facilitator.

Salkinder said the opportunity to lead JCA was both a privilege and a responsibility. “JCA has always played a vital role in bringing our community together and ensuring that the organisations doing essential work have the support they need to thrive,” she said.

“The events of the past year have reminded us just how important community is. At a time when so many people are facing uncertainty and change, our ability to stand together, support one another and invest in the future has never been more important.

“I am honoured to take on the role of president and look forward to working with the Board, our CEO Alain Hasson, our member organisations, donors and the broader community as we build on JCA’s strong foundations and continue to respond to the changing needs of our community.”

Slakinder also paid tribute to Ian Sandler for his leadership over the past six years. “Ian has led JCA with enormous commitment, integrity and care. His contribution over six years as president, and more than two decades of service to JCA, has been immense,” she said.

“He has helped guide the organisation through significant transformation and some of the most challenging periods our community has faced. We are deeply grateful for everything he has given to JCA.”

Hasson welcomed the appointment, saying Salkinder’s combination of business expertise, philanthropic experience and deep understanding of the community made her ideally placed to lead the organisation. “Myra brings exceptional leadership experience and a genuine understanding of what makes our community strong,” he said.

“She understands both the responsibility of ensuring our communal organisations are equipped to meet today’s needs and the importance of investing in the future. Her experience in business, governance and philanthropy, combined with her longstanding commitment to JCA, will be an enormous asset as we continue to evolve the organisation.”

Hasson also acknowledged Sandler’s contribution. “Ian has been an outstanding President and has given JCA an extraordinary six years of service, building on more than 20 years of involvement with the organisation. We thank him for his leadership, his commitment and his unwavering belief in the importance of a strong and connected community.”

Salkinder takes on the Presidency as JCA continues its 2026 campaign under the theme “We Are One Connected by Community”, a message that reflects the organisation’s commitment to ensuring that people and organisations across the NSW and ACT Jewish community are supported, connected and able to respond to emerging needs.