By Daniel Burger, CEO
When I was first approached to consider joining Magen David Adom UK, it was a daunting prospect. My predecessor had spent 15 years building MDA into a force of nature within the community. He was well-known and deeply respected, and stepping into his shoes felt like a huge responsibility.
At the time, I was on my way to a family wedding in Israel, so I decided to visit MDA and experience it firsthand. During that trip, I did a shift on an ambulance, and that moment sold the role to me.
Hearing about MDA’s international work -whether in Haiti or other parts of the world – was incredible. What stood out most to me was how MDA operates on a global scale, showcasing Israel’s commitment to humanitarian excellence. It’s not just an ambulance service; it’s a lifeline that symbolises Israel’s life-saving work worldwide.
When I accepted the position, my first week on the job I was thrown into the deep end. Eli, who was scheduled to speak at a Christian Friends of MDA (CFMDA) event in Liverpool, fell ill and I had to step in. It was an interfaith celebration at Kingsway Church and it opened my eyes to the diversity of MDA’s supporters -from Jewish and non-Jewish friends alike who share a love for Israel.
From the start, my mission was to shift the narrative. Many people mistakenly saw MDA as merely a Jewish ambulance service, but it’s so much more than that. It’s an Israeli institution for everyone in Israel, regardless of religion or background. Amplifying that message has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career.
Career highlights and lessons
One of the standout moments of my time here was managing a humanitarian project during the Ukraine crisis. Coordinating efforts with four governments – Scottish, Polish, British, and Ukrainian – to ensure the safety of children was a crash course in international diplomacy and project management. It highlighted the responsibility of this role, and the remarkable people I get to work with every day.
A colleague once shared a thought that has stayed with me: “Good leaders create followers, but great leaders cultivate other leaders.” This resonates deeply. My goal has always been to empower the next generation of leaders who will carry MDA forward. People like my current team are shining examples of this. By investing in their growth, we ensure the continued vitality and innovation of our organisation.
A big highlight was discovering Gisela Martin, who was a housekeeper who died with a modest estate. Little did she know that her former employer, the late Harry Fuld Jr – an industrialist who lost everything to the Nazis – had left her a collection of art and sculptures. What happened next was and indeed continues to be, truly incredible. Gisela Martin, unbeknownst to anyone, left what she believed to be her inconsequential assets and belongings to Magen David Adom UK. At the time of her death, this barely registered on the radar. However, once the Fuld link was made, her estate became both life-changing and life-saving.
Another highlight was meeting the First Lady of Israel on a mission to Tel Aviv, coinciding with the publication of the UN report accepting the sexual violence committed against women on 7.10 and hearing how the First Lady had lobbied for this report.
I’ve never had a day at work where I didn’t love my job, and that’s a rare and powerful feeling. I’ve grown as a leader and take pride in leaving a legacy that creates opportunities for others to lead and excel.
A life of public speaking
Over the years, public speaking has become a significant part of my role. Interestingly, I’ve never had formal training but have honed my skills through experiences, including working with the Kellogg Foundation. Whether speaking to a packed room in a five-star hotel or addressing a small community in a church, I’ve come to appreciate the privilege of connecting with audiences in diverse settings.
One memorable moment was speaking at the Peninsula Hotel last year, framing and emceeing an event that brought together leaders and supporters of MDA. Another highlight was meeting the First Lady of Israel on a mission to Tel Aviv, coinciding with a UN conference on sexual violence against women. Experiences like these remind me of the global impact of MDA’s work and the connections we foster worldwide.
Building a global network
MDA is not just an Israeli organisation; it’s an international movement. I’m proud to have worked closely with MDA Europe, particularly the leadership in France and Italy. Our collaborations across MDA societies have been instrumental in expanding our reach and impact. Projects like launching the air ambulance service outside the community are testaments to MDA’s growth and innovation.
As I look back, I’m filled with gratitude for the journey and the people I’ve met along the way. This role is amazing. The future of MDA UK is bright, and I’m excited to see how the next generation of leaders will shape it.
