CEO, president named at Sarasota community, human services nonprofit

After a few years in Kansas, Helene Lotman is shedding the winter months for something a little more warmer — a life in Sarasota — as the newest CEO and president of the JFCS of the Suncoast. 

Lotman, with over 30 years experience in diverse global business and organizational environments, will step into the role officially Jan. 1, 2023. 

She’s currently the CEO and president of the Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City. Lotman has been in that role since 2016. The former Sarasota resident also has a history in Palm Beach as the executive vice president of the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach, according to a statement. 

“After completing an eight-month national search, our board of directors is thrilled to welcome Helene to JFCS as our CEO. Helene is an inspiring mission-focused professional with limitless energy to drive results,” says Kathie Roberts, JFCS board chair, in a release, before also noting Nelle Miller’s time spent as interim CEO throughout the search process. “Nelle has helped to stabilize JFCS and build trust to move the organization forward." 

Miller stepped into the interim position in February and will continue as such until the end of the year through the transition. 

“JFCS of the Suncoast has provided services and support to so many throughout the Suncoast,” Lotman says in the release. “I am excited and honored to lead JFCS in its mission and to serve together with a dedicated professional and volunteer staff to continue meeting the needs of those we serve.”

The organization is based in Sarasota but serves clients throughout six counties as a mental health counseling and human services provider.