Beverly Hills, CA – The Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce (OJC) marked the launch of its Western Region office with an exclusive event in Beverly Hills, celebrating the installation of Rabbi Pini Dunner, senior rabbi at Beverly Hills Synagoge, as its new Chair. The gathering, which took place at a private Beverly Hills residence, brought together a diverse group of influential business leaders, including investors, family office representatives, investment bankers, high-tech companies, trade representatives from Poland, Hungary, Israel, and consul generals, underscoring the Chamber’s dedication to fostering economic growth and collaboration across various sectors.

In his address (see below) the Rabbi outlined his vision for the Chamber’s future. He emphasized the importance of building networks, creating synergies, and leveraging opportunities to strengthen both local and global Jewish business communities. Rabbi Dunner’s address was complemented by remarks from Duvi Honig, Founder and CEO of the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce, who spoke about the Chamber’s expanding role in advocating for Jewish business interests and promoting pro-business policies.

The event also featured special presentations to Beverly Hills Vice Mayor Sharona Nazarian and Beverly Hills Police Department Chief Mark Stainbrook, acknowledging their significant contributions to the community. Both honorees expressed their appreciation and spoke about the importance of unity, safety, and economic development in Beverly Hills, aligning with the Chambers values.

Special guest Professor Asher Cohen, President of Hebrew University in Jerusalem, delivered the keynote address, sharing insights into the innovative developments at Hebrew University and the vital role academic institutions play in driving business and technological advancements.

During the event, Rabbi Dunner announced two significant initiatives aimed at expanding the Chamber’s impact. The first is the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce Business & Trade Mission to Israel, planned for early 2025, with the possible inclusion of the UAE. The mission will provide participants with unique opportunities to meet business leaders, explore start-up opportunities, and engage with government officials.

The second initiative is the launch of a West Coast Pavilion at the upcoming JBiz Expo, scheduled to take place on December 9-10, 2024, at Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The West Coast Pavilion will showcase businesses from the Western Region, highlighting innovation and talent to national and global markets. The JBiz Expo is a premier business-to-business networking event organized by the OJC, featuring industry experts, government collaborations, and numerous opportunities for growth and partnership.

L-R: BHPD Chief Mark Stainbrook, Hungary Consul General István Gróf, event host Natalie Wizman, Beverly Hills Vice Mayor Sharona Nazarian, OJC Global Ambassador Karen Setian, OJC CEO Duvi Honig, OJC Western Region Chair Rabbi Pini Dunner, Head of Foreign Trade Poland Consulate Anna Debecka, Polish Investment & Trade Agency representative Aleksander Skrzypek, Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce CEO Todd Johnson