Sam Smith
Want to honor this person?
Make a donation to JUF in recognition of this 36 Under 36 honoree. All new and increased gifts to the 2025 JUF Annual Campaign will be matched dollar for dollar, doubling your impact!
DONATE NOW
If you enjoyed seeing Jewish rapper/comedian Lil Dicky headline last year's YLD Big Event Fundraiser, you have Sam to thank for it! A core member of the planning team for the Big Event Fundraiser, Sam came up with the idea to feature the star.
He's committed to the future of the Jewish people, currently serving as both a member of YLD's Board of Directors and JFNA's National Young Leadership Cabinet. "I care deeply about building vibrant, welcoming, and resilient Jewish spaces," Sam said. "Much of my free time is dedicated to supporting various JUF programs and initiatives-I often joke with my wife that half our social calendar revolves around Jewish events."
The Deerfield native is a Managing Director at Russell Reynolds Associates, where he leads the firm's technology practice in the Americas. He works closely with private equity firms to recruit CEOs and Board Members, and previously led the firm's Product and Engineering practice.
AGE:
35
PRONOUNS:
He/him/his
PRIMARY GIG:
Managing Director, Americas at Russell Reynolds Associates
HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK:
I’ve been active in YLD’s campaign for the past two years and am honored to serve as Campaign Chair next year. Additionally, I’ve proudly supported Jewish life at George Washington University for the last 15 years and am thrilled to have recently joined the Hillel board to further champion Jewish engagement on campus.
DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN 10 WORDS OR LESS:
Husband, son, brother, Jewish leader, executive advisor, dog dad, and traveler.
WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT IN THE LAST 10 YEARS:
Marrying my incredible wife, Ali. We met during the pandemic, and from the moment I met her, I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life with her.
A JEW WHO INSPIRES YOU:
My mom, Judy Smith, has been a pillar of Jewish Chicago throughout my entire life and inspires me every day. Her selflessness, deep care for both our local and global communities, and commitment to lifelong learning, advocacy, and community building set an incredible example for me and those around me.
