FIDF announces new executives

FIDF logoNEW YORK (Press Release)– The Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) announced the appointment of two new senior executives to lead the charitable organization as it expands for the future. The FIDF named Maj. Gen. (Res.) Meir Klifi-Amir as National Executive Director, beginning September 16, and Alan E. Scholnick as Chief Executive Officer, effective August 11.

The two new FIDF senior executives will oversee the organization as it grows its fundraising infrastructure, building upon the strong foundation developed over the last 33 years, with the mission of supporting wellbeing services and programs for the soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

Gen. Klifi-Amir joins FIDF following a 33-year Israeli military career, serving as a soldier and senior officer in the Paratroopers Brigade, as well as the Commander of the Givati Brigade. He held a wide range of commanding roles, including heading two IDF Divisions, and serving as the Deputy Chief of the Ground Forces Command. Gen. Klifi-Amir was also the Military Secretary to two prime ministers, including to current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, acting as the special military and security advisor to the PM, and partner in national security decisions. Following his IDF service, Gen. Klifi-Amir worked as a security consultant, specializing in national security and strategic planning for governments and agencies worldwide. He founded his own security firm in 2012.

“I am honored to be joining FIDF, and to leverage my extensive involvement in Israeli life to lead this remarkable organization and reach new heights in supporting the brave men and women of the IDF,” said Gen. Klifi-Amir.

Scholnick has been a highly successful entrepreneur and real estate executive, with over 25 years of leadership experience that also includes notable achievements in the finance and aviation industries. He has been deeply involved in Jewish communal life as an active lay leader with multiple national philanthropic and not-for-profit organizations, including AIPAC.

“I am grateful to have this opportunity to bring my experience in strategic development, operations and fundraising to FIDF, and to lead this organization to new levels of growth and to inspire others to participate in FIDF’s essential mission,” said Mr. Scholnick.

The new senior executives will succeed National Director and CEO Emeritus, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Yitzhak (Jerry) Gershon, who has overseen over six years of unprecedented organizational growth.

FIDF raises approximately $85 million annually to support the wellbeing of Israel’s soldiers.

“We are tremendously fortunate to be building this talented team with Gen. Klifi-Amir and Mr. Scholnick at the helm, as we further strengthen FIDF, and support the wellbeing of the IDF soldiers and Israeli society as a whole for generations to come,” said Nily Falic, FIDF’s National Chairman.

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Preceding provided by Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF)