Israel Securities Authority Appoints New Director General from Within

The Israel Securities Authority (ISA) is set to see a leadership change as its first-ever Director General, Oded Shapirer, concludes his tenure in December after 25 years with the organization. Shapirer, who served as Director General for the past seven years, will be succeeded by Sarah Kendler. Shapirer joined the ISA in 1994 and held various positions in investigations, intelligence, and management before becoming the agency's first Director General in 2019. His departure marks a continuation of the ISA's practice of promoting from within, rather than appointing an external candidate.

Sarah Kendler, who has been with the ISA since 2001, was selected through an internal tender process. Currently, she heads the newly established Department of Auditing and Enforcement, created in 2024 to bolster capital market oversight. Previously, she managed the Corporations Department, served as Deputy Legal Advisor, led the Legislation Unit, and was a senior advisor to the ISA Chairman. Her appointment is seen as significant given her direct experience in enforcement and oversight.

ISA Chairman Spi Zinger praised Kendler's extensive experience and deep understanding of the ISA and the capital market. Kendler stated her commitment to ensuring the stable and proper functioning of the capital market. The transition from Shapirer to Kendler signifies a clear continuity in leadership, with both having built their careers within the regulatory body.