New York, NY (September 24, 2025)…UJA-Federation of New York announces the appointment of Karen Abravanel as UJA-Federation’s new Chief Legal and Compliance Officer, succeeding Ellen Zimmerman, who retired after more than 30 years.

In her new role, Ms. Abravanel will guide UJA through an evolving legal landscape and ensure the continuation of its vital work caring for people in need, strengthening Jewish life, responding to global crises and confronting antisemitism. She will be responsible for overseeing all legal and compliance matters related to UJA’s operations.

“After more than 30 years at UJA, Ellen played a vital role in UJAs success. She is a deeply respected lawyer whose judgment and integrity have guided the organization through decades of growth. I’ve been fortunate to benefit from her wise counsel and friendship,” said Eric S. Goldstein, CEO, UJA-Federation of New York. “As we thank Ellen, we also welcome Karen, a seasoned legal leader with deep experience in governance, compliance, and litigation. Karen’s strategic mindset, coupled with her strong ties to Jewish communal life, make her an ideal fit for UJA.”

“I’m honored to join UJA-Federation at this critical moment.  UJA is an institution whose impact and values I’ve long admired. The scale and scope of UJA’s work — across philanthropy, community partnerships, and global engagement — present meaningful legal considerations that demand clarity, strategy, and sound judgment. I look forward to helping steward the organization’s mission with the highest standards of legal and ethical integrity,” said Ms. Abravanel.

Prior to joining UJA, Ms. Abravanel served as the North America general counsel for Natura &Co, where she oversaw legal operations in the U.S. and Canada for purpose-driven beauty brands Avon, Natura, The Body Shop, and Aesop. Before assuming that role, she held various senior legal positions at Avon including as chief litigation counsel. She also worked as a litigation associate at Sullivan & Worcester LLP and Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP, maintaining an active pro bono practice focused on human rights and criminal defense. Early in her career, she clerked for Chief Justice Aharon Barak at the Supreme Court of Israel and interned for Israel’s Minister of Justice Yossi Beilin.

Ms. Abravanel attended Yale University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in History and International Studies and received her Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School. She is currently a Trustee of Westchester Jewish Center and lives in Westchester with her husband, Dr. Jonathan Yaeger, and their two sons.