Gayle Smith, top advisor on development issues to two American presidents and one of the world’s leading experts on global development recently joined ONE as President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Smith succeeds Michael Elliott, who passed away in July 2016, and Adrian Lovett, who has served as the interim CEO.
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| Gayle Smith, CEO, ONE Campaign |
Smith was chosen after a long, extensive worldwide search. She will bring her unparalleled expertise on development and democracy issues to ONE, in addition to a great network of relationships across the African continent and around the world. In her most recent role as administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), Smith led a staff of more than 10,000 people working to end extreme poverty, foster sustained and inclusive economic growth, and promote resilient, democratic societies all over the world.
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| Gayle Smith |
In her words, “Never have there been greater challenges or opportunities on the road to sustainable and equitable development in Africa.” I’m thoroughly excited to work with the ONE team and our partners all over the world, particularly in Africa, to achieve the progress that is possible.”
ONE Co-founder, Bono of U2 expressed his excitement to have Smith join the ONE team. He stated that “She is a strong, savvy leader with deep expertise and decades of experience working to change the conditions that allow extreme poverty to thrive.”
We, at Save Our Needy wish a warm welcome to Gayle Smith! #StrongGirl
