WESTPORT — Steven M. Friedlander, CEO of the Federation for Jewish Philanthropy of Upper Fairfield County (FJP), will step down from his post in June in order to pursue new professional directions, it was announced recently by Bonnie Slyn of Easton, who was installed as the agency’s board chair at its annual meeting on Jan. 20. Julia Marx of Westport was installed as vice chair of the board.

Friedlander was executive director of UJA/Federation of Westport Weston Wilton Nowalk for close to a dozen years before overseeing the 2015 merger of that Federation with the Eastern Fairfield County JCCS/Federation. He then became CEO of the combined entity, the Federation for Jewish Philanthropy of Upper Fairfield County.

“We are grateful to Steve for his leadership in getting the FJP off to a great merged beginning, and for his many years of service to the community,” said Linda Russ of Westport, who recently completed her term as Board co-chair.

Former co-chair, Karen Ferleger, agreed. “We are in a great position to move forward, having laid the foundation for a stronger, revitalized Federation and overall Jewish community.”

Now entering its second year, FJP is expected to relocate its offices to the new Jewish Senior Services Park Avenue campus, set to open in early June.

“Our merged organization continues to grow and flourish,” said Slyn. “We anticipate a smooth transition, with Steve continuing to lead the organization in accomplishing our vital work as we work on our search for his successor.”