Carly Newman

"Lead with empathy-you never know what someone is carrying until you take the time to ask." This valuable piece of advice has guided Carly as she has navigated leadership positions in both her professional and philanthropic pursuits.

During her term as President of the JCYS Board of Directors, she led with heart, guided a successful, strategic CEO transition, expanded the board, and fostered a culture of transparency and empowerment. Beyond boardrooms, Carly builds Jewish community in her home, hosting vibrant Shabbat dinners that bring people together with warmth and purpose.

"I give back by investing in people," she said. "Whether mentoring new board members or coaching my team at work, I find deep fulfillment in helping others rise, challenge themselves, and grow. My Jewish identity fuels this passion-values like community, education, and lifelong learning have guided me since childhood and shape how and why I lead today."

Carly is also a dynamic force for innovation and leadership in the financial industry. She currently serves as Vice President, Treasury Management Officer, and Team Lead at Wintrust Financial Corporation, and participates in the Women of Wintrust Business Resource Group, advocating for gender equity and mentorship across the organization.

AGE:
31

PRONOUNS:
She/her/hers

PRIMARY GIG:
Vice President, Treasury Management Officer, and Team Lead at Wintrust Financial Corporation

ON THE SIDE:
Immediate Past President of the JCYS Board of Directors

DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN 10 WORDS OR LESS:
Driven by values, grounded in empathy, powered by coffee.

CELEBRITY DOPPELGANGER:
I used to hear that I look like Selena Gomez.

HOW YOU JEW IN CHICAGO:
For me, being Jewish in Chicago means being part of a vibrant, interconnected community full of opportunity and heart. Since graduating college, I have found deep fulfillment in engaging in this community—through volunteering, leadership, and relationship-building. I met my husband through JUF LEADS, and now, as new parents, we are building a Jewish home rooted in friendship, tradition, and purpose.

A JEW WHO INSPIRES YOU:
Ezra Jaffe has quietly and consistently inspired me through both his leadership and the way he lives his values. From my earliest days at Wintrust, Ezra believed in me—inviting me to join the JCYS board and opening the door to a journey I never expected. Seven years later, I am still at Wintrust, loving the work I do, and I had the privilege of following in his footsteps as President of the JCYS Board of Directors.