Sir Trevor Chinn succeeds Rabbi Professor Tony Bayfield as Reform Judaism President

Sir Trevor Chinn CVO has been unanimously nominated by the Board of Reform Judaism to be the next President of the organisation. As the sole nominee, Sir Trevor’s nomination was approved by Council at Reform Judaism’s AGM on Sunday 26 June.

Rabbi Professor Tony Bayfield CBE has decided to retire after five years as President, having substantially fulfilled the remit agreed shortly before stepping down as Head of the Movement, and having dedicated himself to Reform Judaism in many professional and voluntary roles for the last 45 years.

Robert Weiner, outgoing Chair of Reform Judaism paid tribute to Rabbi Bayfield noting that “he has been instrumental in the development of Reform Judaism in Britain, in establishing the movement’s position in the Jewish community and in British life. His contribution to Reform Jewish thought, values and theology is outstanding and the impact of his interfaith work is considerable. On behalf of our members, rabbis and Board, I would like to extend my thanks and express our gratitude for his remarkable contribution”.

Entrepreneur and philanthropist Sir Trevor Chinn is a member of West London Synagogue. Former Chair of the RAC, his leadership roles include Chief Barker of the Variety Club of Great Britain, Chair of the Friends of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme (for which he received his CVO in 1989), Vice-Chair of the Wishing Well Appeal for Great Ormond Street Hospital (for which he received his knighthood in 1990) and Deputy Chair of the Royal Academy Trust. He also chaired the Mayor’s Fund for London, working with disadvantaged young Londoners.

Sir Trevor’s contributions to Jewish community life are extensive, including serving as Chair of JIA and then President of UJIA, President of Norwood, Vice-President and Trustee of the Jewish Leadership Council and as a member of the Executive Committee of BICOM.

Robert Weiner said: “I am delighted that Sir Trevor has been appointed as President. His contribution to causes within and beyond our community embodies our commitment to building a just society through social action and tikkun olam, repair of the world. I am confident that he will be an excellent representative of Reform Judaism and our values on the communal and national stage”.