Jewish Chicago Magazine

Joey’s outgoing personality is matched by compassion and kindness—qualities that have helped him emerge as a thoughtful young leader.
 
In his role as Executive Director of Leadership Assessment & Development at Russell Reynolds Associates, the Highland Park native specializes in organizational psychology, working with CEOs and other senior leaders on how they can be most effective within their organizations
 
Additionally, Joey is a JUF Young Leadership Division (YLD) Board Member, Chair of YLD’s 2027 Campaign, and Co-founder of the 20s/30s Chapter at North Shore Congregation Israel.
 
“He is an ambitious, personable, and highly passionate Jewish young professional,” shared a friend. “Not only is he incredibly successful in the workplace, but he also deeply values his Jewish identity.”
 
“The ultimate empathetic listener,” added his mother.
 
From his earliest years at JCC preschool through Hebrew school, his bar mitzvah, youth group, Jewish camp years, and family volunteer work, Joey developed a deep sense of Jewish pride and responsibility. Today, he channels those values into his work and service, building inclusive community and strengthening Jewish life in Chicago and beyond.

Age: 35
 
Primary gig: Executive Director, Leadership Assessment & Development at Russell Reynolds Associates
 
Jewish summer camp/summer camp: Beber Camp
 
Something most people don’t know about you: I love learning new things and believe some of the greatest growth comes from stretching beyond our comfort zones. In addition to my professional work as an organizational psychologist and executive coach, I am a recreational pilot, trained actor, amateur stand-up comedian, and global travel enthusiast. There is so much to discover in the world, and I love seeking out new experiences that challenge me, broaden my perspective, and expand my horizons.
 
A Jew who inspires you: This one is easy: my mom, Janna Berk. My mom is deeply rooted in Judaism, and she makes it important that her family is, as well. Her core values center on raising Jewish children in a Jewish family, not simply a family that identifies as Jewish, but one that is proud to be Jewish. She lives her Jewish values every day. Throughout my life, she has been involved with JUF and other Jewish organizations, serving as a model for supporting and giving back to the Jewish community. She has always shown me that Jewish values are not just ideas we talk about, but behaviors we practice. As I move into a leadership role on the YLD Board in the year ahead, I do so inspired by my mom and with pride in representing myself, my family, and my community as a proud Jewish person. 
 
Your best piece of advice: Life’s greatest moments are given their meaning by those you share them with. Surround yourself with great people—those who you show up for and those who show up for you. Don’t get distracted by the other stuff.