The Union of Jewish Students campaigns director will move to the Jewish Leadership Council in June as one of three new appointments at the organisation.

Russell Langer will take up the position of public affairs manager at JLC central office.

The role of head of campaigns will be filled by Judith Flacks, former communications officer at research group
Bicom, while Adam Langleben, who previously worked on Tessa Jowell’s campaign to be Labour candidate for London mayor, has been appointed head of digital and stakeholder engagement.

The appointments were announced on Tuesday.

JLC chief executive Simon Johnson said: “This is a particularly important time for the Jewish community in the UK. The rise of antisemitism coupled with an aggressive BDS and delegitimisation movement means we need to ensure there is capacity to fight those who seek to undermine us. I am proud that we have been able to appoint three up-and-coming stars of our community to fill these roles. I am also proud that we have given a vote of confidence in UJS and those who have worked there. I hope these appointments, together with our investment in regional centres, will see our community continue to thrive for generations to come. ”

Judith Flacks also previously worked as UJS campaigns director.

The organisation is also set to recruit three external affairs managers based in Glasgow, Leeds and Manchester to provide an additional communal contact, with appointments expected in the summer.

President of the Glasgow Jewish Representative Council Paul Morron said: “The post will help the community by supporting its outward looking work to the wider community, both in civil society, political life and in support of Israel. It represents an important partnership with the JLC and provides the key piece of infrastructure for the community.”

President of the Leeds Jewish Representative Council Simon Jackson said: “We were very much taken by the foresight of the JLC in the requirement to create regional positions. Having a dedicated specialist in this field, to work alongside the number of lay and professional leaders already touching upon this, will be extremely helpful and beneficial.”

President of the Manchester Representative Council Sharon Bannister said: “We strongly welcome this investment and practical help from the JLC. We were very pleased to have been properly consulted about the role. I look forward to working very closely with the individual.”