Our Trustees

At WS, trustees have legal responsibility for the management of the synagogue and ensuring it complies with its obligations as a registered charity. But more than that, they  guide the synagogue by representing our diverse community and supporting our shared mission. Here’s what we look for in trustees and how we work together.

• Community Representation Trustees reflect a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives, bringing authenticity, openness, and a commitment to hearing diverse voices. Each trustee supports WS’s vision with dedication, balancing personal perspectives with respect for others. Trustees often bring prior experience in lay leadership, ensuring they have the skills and insight to guide the Synagogue effectively while representing a broad range of perspectives. 

• Integrity and Confidentiality As trusted leaders, trustees handle responsibilities with care, respecting confidentiality and sharing essential information with members. Decision-making is thoughtful and always focused on the community’s best interests. 

• Strategy and Governance Trustees are committed to strategic thinking and good governance, and must follow the Charity Commission guidelines around trusteeship.  

• Preparedness and Sensitivity Trustees come prepared, bringing respect, thoughtfulness, and a readiness to engage actively in decision-making. Collaboration with our professional team to ensure alignment and mutual understanding is key, as is challenging one another constructively and welcoming feedback with a positive spirit. At least one team member or trustee has worked closely with a potential trustee before they step into this role. 

• Community Engagement Trustees serve as ambassadors for WS, connecting meaningfully with members and the broader Jewish community. By attending services and events regularly, trustees build relationships that reflect and strengthen our community. Beyond attending services and events, trustees dedicate time outside of meetings and demonstrate their commitment to our community’s growth. Trustees are willing to take responsibility for at least one substantial area of work. 

• Commitment to Jewish Life and Values Trustees actively live Jewish values, participating in WS services and initiatives, championing Relational Judaism through actively connecting with others in the community. Trustees embody WS’s ethos, embracing our way of working and values while remaining open to innovative ideas and opportunities to further develop our community. Trustees must be members of the Synagogue.  

• Leadership Development and Succession Trustees foster and mentor future leaders, ensuring continuity and strengthening WS’s future. Planned transitions and sustainable leadership practices are key, carrying on WS’s tradition while planning for our future. 

• Accountability and Purpose Clear on our mission, trustees work to achieve it and hold one another accountable to this work. By balancing commitment with self-awareness, trustees prevent burnout and ensure sustainable engagement. In addition to their personal dedication, trustees often bring valuable professional skillsets that contribute to the community and executive team. 

If you’re passionate about WS’s mission, align with what we are looking for in our trustees, are ready to represent our community, and eager to help shape WS’s future, let’s talk about the best pathway for you towards becoming a trustee. Simply email gary@westminstersynagogue.org to learn more.