The Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, the philanthropic heart and soul of the Atlanta Jewish Community for more than a century, announces Renee Kutner as President and Chief Executive Officer. The announcement comes on the heels of a nationwide search that evaluated more than 70 applicants.

A native Atlantan, Kutner has a storied history in the Atlanta Jewish community. After a career that included a decade in advertising and marketing, Kutner joined the Federation as VP of Marketing in December 2015. In 2021, she was named Chief Operating Officer of Federation, focusing on strategic direction, leadership development, community planning & impact, internal operations, and governance. Kutner received her BA from the University of Michigan and her MBA from UCLA.

“The Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta is the convener of a diverse and dynamic Jewish community. With Renee at the helm, we will continue to grow and evolve, and meet the needs of people both in Atlanta, in Israel, and around the world,” says Beth Arogeti, Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta Board Chair.

The nationwide search was chaired by Debbie Kuniansky, upcoming Federation Board Chair, and Matt Bronfman, immediate past Federation Board Chair. The committee partnered with DRG, a leader in executive search and recruiting. Kutner will assume the role on December 1, working closely with interim CEO David Fisher on a transition plan.

“The committee was looking for a strategic-minded person who could lead with vision and purpose while driving results for our community. Renee overwhelmingly impressed the committee with her vision and her ability to focus our community as we move forward during this critical time in Jewish life,” says Kuniansky. “Combine that with her love for her hometown, Israel, and her tremendous tenure with the organization, and we knew she was the ideal candidate.”

Kutner is both professionally and personally focused on the next generation of the Jewish community. She is a graduate of the inaugural cohort of the Mandel Executive Leadership Program and is active in Congregation Or HaTorah. Mom to three, two of her children attend Atlanta Jewish Academy and her eldest has recently moved to Israel to join the IDF.

“We are sitting in one of the most crucial moments in the modern Jewish world with tremendous challenges, but also with opportunity. The rise in Jewish pride and engagement over the past year is what gives me hope and inspiration in this role. “ says Kutner. “I’m thrilled to play this role in our vibrant and growing community, and to work with our amazing team of professionals and volunteers, and all of our partners, to meet the needs of this moment and beyond.”