The NSW Jewish Board of Deputies has appointed a new Chief Executive Officer – Darren Bark, currently a Senior Executive with the NSW Government.

Mr Bark will succeed Vic Alhadeff, who resigned in November 2020 after 16 years, and who will take on a non-exclusive advisory role with the organisation. Mr Bark will take up office on May 17.

Board of Deputies President Lesli Berger: “Darren Bark is an accomplished professional with experience leading senior multidisciplinary teams and collaborating strategically and effectively with stakeholders. As a successful leader with a track record of designing and implementing major reform, the JBD is delighted to have Darren lead the organisation. We have every confidence that he will be a great asset to the community.

“He will bring his extensive experience across the public, not-for-profit and private sectors to support the community, including our most vulnerable,” Mr Berger said.

Mr Bark has worked for the NSW Government for 10 years, after working in the IT and legal sectors. His responsibilities have included strategic leadership and oversight of justice and law enforcement priorities, including managing performance across multiple disciplines such as policy, legal, projects, digital transformation, artificial intelligence and business analysis.

Mr Bark: “I’m excited to work for our diverse and vibrant community to improve our physical and political security as part of a harmonious, inclusive and democratic society.

“As a Jewish Australian and long-time advocate for inclusion and diverse opinion, I am excited about working with our community to limit inadvertent discrimination and provide opportunities for our vulnerable groups. I look forward to strengthening the unity and cohesion of the NSW Jewish community and working with our 55 major communal organisations and their constituents.”

Mr Berger: “We salute Vic Alhadeff for his stellar service to the Board of Deputies and the entire NSW Jewish community. His contribution to our community has been simply outstanding, highlighted by his leadership of the landmark three-year campaign which achieved legislative reform.”

Mr Bark’s appointment comes after an extensive search and recruitment process, managed by executive search firm Boyden.