Apprentice runner-up Luisa Zissman has joined the executive board of a leading Jewish charity.

The cup-cake company boss will work with Laniado UK to raise money for Laniado Hospital in Netanya, Israel.

Mrs Zissman said she was “excited” to be part of “an incredible charity. I cried while watching a hugely touching video about its work. We will do great things together”.

The 25-year-old businesswoman reached the final of this year’s series of The Apprentice, but was beaten to the prize of £250,000 and a chance to work with Lord Sugar by Northern Irish doctor, Leah Totten.

Laniado chief executive Simon Silver said Mrs Zissman’s “professionalism and understanding of the business world” would be an asset to the charity. “We jumped at the chance to get Luisa involved in helping this special hospital in Israel,” he said.

The new recruit is currently involved in organising Laniado’s gala event in November.