Simon Rocker

From Local Beats to National Narratives

Rocker’s career trajectory mirrors the evolution of Anglo-Jewish journalism itself. Early assignments focused on hyperlocal synagogue governance and educational reforms, laying the groundwork for his signature style—meticulously researched, yet accessible to both insiders and broader audiences. His 2015 investigation into funding disparities in Jewish schools sparked parliamentary discussions, showcasing his ability to translate community issues into national policy conversations.

Landmark Reporting: Three Defining Articles

• Could the UK's largest Orthodox synagogue body have its first woman president? This 2023 analysis dissected shifting power dynamics within the United Synagogue network. Rocker traced the historical exclusion of women from leadership roles while highlighting grassroots campaigns for reform. Through interviews with rabbinical scholars and lay members, he revealed how demographic changes and younger leadership are reshaping centuries-old governance structures.
• Where UK Jews agree – and disagree – after October 7 Post-October 7 polling analysis became a masterclass in community journalism. Rocker partnered with YouGov to survey 2,000 British Jews, creating the most comprehensive dataset on attitudes toward Israel since the Second Intifada. His breakdown of generational divides in Zionist affiliations remains a key reference for policymakers.
• After six years, the last Israeli emissary to British Jewry returns home This 2024 feature wove personal narrative into geopolitical analysis, following Rabbi Assaf Freund’s tenure during Brexit and COVID-19. Rocker used the emissary’s experiences to explore changing Israel-Diaspora relations, including controversial judicial reforms’ impact on British Zionist organizations.

Pitching Priorities: Aligning with Rocker’s Beats

1. Orthodox Institutional Reform

Rocker consistently covers structural changes within UK Orthodox Judaism. Pitches about synagogue governance models, women’s leadership initiatives, or educational accreditation shifts resonate strongly. His 2023 series on Manchester’s gender-segregated events policy demonstrates interest in balancing tradition with modern community needs.

2. Jewish Education Metrics

With 14% annual coverage dedicated to schooling trends, Rocker prioritizes data-driven stories. Propose access to enrollment statistics, cross-denominational curriculum comparisons, or longitudinal studies on graduate outcomes. His 2022 analysis of STEM enrollment drops in yeshivas set the agenda for funding debates.

3. Diaspora-Israel Policy Tensions

As Anglo-Jewry navigates complex ties with Israel, Rocker tracks policy divergences. Focus pitches on UK Jewish responses to Israeli legislation, aliyah patterns, or cross-border philanthropic strategies. His 2024 interview with departing Israeli Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely remains the definitive analysis of diplomatic friction points.

Awards and Recognition

“Rocker’s work exemplifies community journalism that refuses to be parochial.” — 2023 Jewish Press Awards Committee

2022 Samuel Landman Award for Investigative Reporting: Recognized for exposing financial mismanagement in a London yeshiva network, leading to Charity Commission interventions. The series combined leaked documents with victim testimonies, setting new standards for accountability journalism in religious institutions.