Gillian Caplin grew up in Birmingham, England but has lived in North West London since her marriage.  She had a long career in broadcasting which started when she travelled to the USA where she worked in television production in New York and Los Angeles for eight years.  Returning to England, she continued to work in media both for the BBC and independent production companies.  She then took a career break to raise her family. 

On returning to work, Gillian became the cultural director at the Spiro Institute for Jewish Education and then worked at Norwood Child Care.  She has also been involved with the Pascal Theatre Company as well as being on the Executive and National councils of the Women’s International Zionist Organisation.

Gillian was elected to the position of  Chair of New North London Synagogue (the largest Masorti community in Europe) followed by a further four years as Chair of the Assembly of Masorti Synagogues (AMS) UK. Gillian also represented the Masorti community on the Jewish Leadership Council’s Commission on Women in Jewish Leadership.

Gillian was instrumental in the creation and development of Masorti Europe, set up to enable and encourage the development of Masorti communities across Europe through mutual support and sharing of skills and became its President.

After completing her term of office as President of Masorti Europe, she was elected the President of Masorti Olami as well as a Vice President of MERCAZ Olami.  She also sits on the Board of Governors of JAFI.