By Attila Kulscar
The Chief Executive Officer of HelpAge International, Richard Blewitt, will be leaving the organisation after more than six years at the helm.
Richard will be taking up the position of United Nations Resident Coordinator and Representative for Trinidad and Tobago and Surinam.
This is a wonderful opportunity for Richard and his family, but a very sad time for us.
Under Richard’s leadership, HelpAge has achieved landmarks such as the Hilton Humanitarian Prize, a new partnership with the World Health Organization and the establishment of Age International.
With our partners, we have reached greater numbers of older people to achieve transformational change throughout the world. Their voices have been strengthened and become more influential as ageing has begun to take a central place on the global development and humanitarian agenda.
Growth of the HelpAge global network
Richard’s tenure has seen a significant growth in the HelpAge network, together with development of our campaigning agenda and a higher profile for our work. HelpAge’s humanitarian work has also expanded, with stronger responses to emergencies around the world and increased collaboration with other humanitarian agencies.
Richard Blewitt said: “I have really loved the last six years – it has been the best period of my career. It has been a fantastic cause to work on and I greatly admire all of you who have devoted your lives to working on this issue. I am sure my successor will be really well chosen and continue the journey with you.”
From 23 April 2013, Richard’s deputy, Silvia Stefanoni, will serve as the acting CEO. The HelpAge International Board has established a committee – led by its Chair, Cindy Cox Roman – to search for a new CEO and build upon the organisation’s momentum.
We will remain committed to developing the foundation and vision which Richard has helped to build.
We have engaged the search company Perrett Laver to work with the HelpAge Board and conduct a truly global search to find a great replacement for Richard.
Please contact Martha Newman mnewman@helpage.org for further details on this exciting position.