Matt Plen is the new director of the Assembly of Masorti Synagogues with a brief to develop educational provision and Masorti's young-adult division, Marom.
He will also work with executive director Michael Gluckman on new communities and fundraising.
An ex-secretary of Masorti's youth movement, Noam, Mr Plen moved to Israel in 1998. A BA in Jewish history and an MA in Jewish studies, he has lectured and trained educators in a number of major institutions.
AMS co-chairman Bill Benjamin said: "We are extremely fortunate to fill this position with someone of Matt's background and proven ability."