Committee News

Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County Installs New Board Chair

  • June 2026
  • selinakoehler


Brian Seymour

Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County proudly announces Brian M. Seymour as chair of its Board of Directors, marking a new chapter of leadership for one of the Palm Beaches’ most impactful nonprofit organizations.

      He was officially installed during Federation’s Annual Meeting last month, attended by more than 300 community members, philanthropic leaders, and civic partners. Seymour succeeds outgoing Board Chair Barry S. Berg, who was honored during the evening for his visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to Jewish Palm Beach.

      Seymour’s personal journey shaped his commitment to Jewish life. Growing up on welfare, his family could not afford synagogue membership or formal Jewish education, underscoring the improbability of his path to success and the purpose that drives him today.

      “Brian is an extraordinary leader who brings the clarity, strength, and vision needed to guide Jewish Palm Beach into its next chapter. It’s an honor to work alongside him,” said Michael Hoffman, president and CEO, Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County.

      A highly respected attorney, U.S. military veteran, and community leader, he assumes the role as board chair following decades of service to Jewish communities worldwide.

      Seymour is a shareholder at Gunster, where he co-chairs the law firm’s statewide Real Property Practice. He joined the firm directly out of law school and has built a distinguished career representing landowners and developers across Florida in land use, zoning, environmental resource permitting, and comprehensive planning. His work has earned recognition from leading publications and organizations, including The Best Lawyers in America, Chambers & Partners, Legal 500, and Florida Trend Legal Elite. Seymour also served as chair of the Business Development Board of Palm Beach County from 2023 to 2025, and is a member of Leadership Florida.

      “Brian’s commitment to his faith and the greater Jewish community has been foundational to who he is, both personally and professionally,” shared Bill Perry, CEO and managing shareholder at Gunster. “His leadership, combined with his passion, insight, and sense of purpose will benefit Federation for years to come.”

      Over the past two decades, Seymour has held numerous leadership roles within Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County, including Campaign chair, Israel & Overseas chair, Executive Committee member, and Board member. Nationally, he serves on the Board of Trustees for Jewish Federations of North America and the Rebuilding Israel Committee, supporting efforts following the October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel. He previously chaired the Emergency Committee, helping to coordinate responses to natural disasters across North America.

      Seymour’s term as board chair comes at a pivotal time as Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County continues to build a vibrant and safe Jewish community in the Palm Beaches.