Mr Tarsh, from Radlett, Hertfordshire, will take up the role in the summer of 2013. He plans to make aliyah and join the IDF following his time as president.
“I'm still a little overwhelmed. I had two very accomplished competitors; I never assumed I would win. I am delighted with the result and hugely excited about the challenge ahead,” he said.
Efforts would be made, he said, to “make sure that UJS plays a key role in bringing Jewish students together, providing the practical services and support that help them to live a Jewish life on campus, and… help them to prepare for the future in the world of work and the wider community”.
Mr Tarsh said UJS should support Israel and encourage debate about the country on British campuses. He also praised the number of Jewish students elected to the Board of Deputies earlier this year.
