Steven Wilson is to step down as United Synagogue chief executive next spring.

Announcing his decision today, Dr Wilson said the timing would allow him to “complete some of the key things that I want to get done before I go - and it gives the organisation an appropriate amount of time to recruit my successor”.

Since joining the US in 2014 after leading the International Council for Science, he has seen it grow from 50 communities to 56.

He has been a driving force behind the Jewish Community Academy Trust schools’ network and a keen supporter of the Centre for Rabbinic Excellence.

Dr Wilson also led the US’s response to Covid and its reopening strategy as restrictions were lifted.

“It has been a huge honour to lead this inspiring organisation, working with such dedicated rabbis and rebbetzens, professional staff and local lay leaders,” he added.

“Their amazing work and achievements over these eight years for our community and beyond have been transformational.”

Paying tribute, US president Michael Goldstein thanked him for contributing to “significant positive change.

“Steven was brought in to implement the strategic review. Since then, he has brought a clarity of vision and shared purpose to our work and has substantially strengthened our senior leadership team.

“The last two years, of course, have been defined by Covid-19. The United Synagogue reacted swiftly and decisively during this period and Steven was at the centre of the organisation’s response, analysing on a daily basis the changing statistics, the government guidance and what the scientists were saying. I have no doubt that his strong leadership at this time saved lives.”