Menorah Synagogue (Cheshire Reform) has recruited a locally born successor to Rabbi Brian Fox, who has retired to Israel.
Rabbi Haim Shalom's appointment was approved overwhelmingly at an EGM of the 1,000-strong congregation on Tuesday.
The 33-year-old has worked in Jewish education in Jerusalem for 10 years and was ordained in 2010.
"Few things could tear me away from Israel," he said. "But the chance to lead this amazing community is one of them."
Rabbi Shalom is the son of Dr Michael Taylor, a Manchester GP for many years, who served as a Labour councillor and Lord Mayor. The rabbi's wife, Deborah, hails from Leeds and is a qualified social worker.
Rabbi Shalom is currently on reserve duty in the IDF. He hopes to join Menorah before the High Holy-Days.