RAND Executive and Leadership Team

Rand Produções, the Chief Executive Officer at RAND, directs the overarching strategic vision for this nonprofit research organization. Focusing on the development of solutions to public policy challenges, the Chief Executive Officer aligns internal research capabilities with the evolving needs of global stakeholders. Rand Produções manages the integration of complex data analysis into actionable policy recommendations, ensuring the organization maintains high standards of objectivity and impact. By fostering partnerships with government agencies and private institutions, the Chief Executive Officer expands the reach of research initiatives across North American and international markets. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of the research portfolio to address emerging societal issues. Through the prioritization of long-term sustainability and intellectual rigor, Produções secures the institutional reputation of the firm as a premier source for evidence-based policy guidance while driving organizational growth and operational excellence.

Michael Sweet, the Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder at RAND, architects the foundational mission and long-term growth trajectory of the organization. As a primary leader, the Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder oversees the alignment of research objectives with the core mandate of solving public policy challenges. Michael Sweet drives the expansion of the research footprint, ensuring that the organization remains at the forefront of innovation in public policy analysis. By coordinating with the Board and senior leadership, the Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder maintains the integrity of the research process while scaling operations to meet global demand. This role involves identifying new areas of inquiry that require evidence-based solutions, thereby influencing policy outcomes on a macro scale. Through the cultivation of a culture centered on intellectual independence and rigorous methodology, Sweet ensures the firm continues to provide critical insights that shape public discourse and improve societal outcomes.

Neal Schwab, the Chief Operating Officer at RAND, manages the internal infrastructure and operational efficiency required to support large-scale research projects. Overseeing the daily execution of business processes, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that research teams possess the necessary resources to address complex public policy challenges effectively. Neal Schwab optimizes administrative workflows and financial systems to maintain the fiscal health of the organization. By streamlining cross-departmental collaboration, the Chief Operating Officer facilitates the seamless delivery of research outputs to clients and stakeholders. This leadership position involves the implementation of scalable technology solutions that enhance data processing capabilities across the firm. Through the rigorous management of operational risks and the continuous improvement of internal protocols, Schwab supports the overarching mission of the organization, ensuring that all research activities remain aligned with the strategic goals established by the executive leadership team.

Wayne Rand, the President at RAND, leads the execution of specific research divisions focused on domestic policy and social welfare initiatives. As a key leader, the President oversees the development of research agendas that address critical public policy challenges within the United States. Wayne Rand coordinates with senior researchers to ensure that all projects adhere to the highest standards of analytical rigor and objectivity. By engaging with policymakers and community leaders, the President translates complex research findings into practical policy recommendations that drive meaningful change. This leadership role involves managing the allocation of research funding and ensuring that projects remain on schedule and within budget. Through the promotion of evidence-based decision-making, Rand enhances the influence of the organization in shaping national policy. By fostering a culture of intellectual curiosity and public service, the President ensures the firm remains a trusted advisor on matters of significant public importance.

Edgard Pietri, the President at RAND, manages the strategic direction of international research programs and global security initiatives. Overseeing the analysis of geopolitical trends and defense policy, the President ensures that the organization provides actionable insights to international stakeholders. Edgard Pietri directs the efforts of research teams tasked with evaluating the impact of global policy decisions on regional stability and economic development. By maintaining strong relationships with international partners and government entities, the President expands the global footprint of the firm. This leadership role involves the synthesis of complex data into clear, policy-relevant reports that inform international decision-making processes. Through the rigorous application of analytical frameworks, Pietri supports the mission of the organization to address global challenges. By prioritizing the delivery of objective and timely research, the President strengthens the reputation of the firm as a vital resource for international policy analysis.

Mena Samaan, the President at RAND, focuses on the advancement of technological research and innovation policy. Overseeing the evaluation of emerging technologies and their societal implications, the President ensures that the organization provides forward-looking analysis on digital transformation and cybersecurity. Mena Samaan directs research initiatives that explore the intersection of technology, ethics, and public policy. By collaborating with industry experts and academic institutions, the President identifies key trends that require evidence-based guidance. This leadership role involves the management of specialized research units dedicated to exploring the future of work, digital infrastructure, and technological governance. Through the development of strategic partnerships, Samaan enhances the ability of the firm to provide cutting-edge insights on complex technological challenges. By championing the use of advanced analytical tools, the President ensures that the organization remains at the forefront of policy research in an increasingly digital world.

Hushang Ansary, the Member, President's Council at RAND, provides high-level advisory support to the executive leadership team regarding long-term strategic planning and institutional positioning. As a member of the council, the Member, President's Council offers expert guidance on navigating complex public policy landscapes and maintaining the nonprofit status of the organization. Hushang Ansary contributes to the development of initiatives that enhance the visibility and impact of research outputs among key decision-makers. By leveraging extensive experience in global affairs and business, the Member, President's Council assists in identifying new opportunities for growth and collaboration. This role involves participating in high-level discussions that shape the future direction of the firm. Through the provision of strategic counsel, Ansary ensures that the organization remains aligned with its core mission while adapting to the changing needs of the public policy environment and maintaining its commitment to objective, evidence-based research.

Bradley Brent, the Office of the President at RAND, coordinates the administrative and strategic functions that support the executive office in its daily operations. Managing the flow of information and communication between the President and various research departments, the Office of the President ensures that leadership priorities are effectively executed across the organization. Bradley Brent facilitates the preparation of briefings and reports that inform executive decision-making on critical public policy challenges. By overseeing the logistics of high-level meetings and stakeholder engagements, the Office of the President maintains the operational momentum of the leadership team. This role involves the integration of diverse inputs from across the firm to provide a cohesive view of ongoing research activities. Through the diligent management of executive workflows, Brent supports the mission of the organization, ensuring that the leadership team remains focused on delivering high-quality, objective analysis to address complex societal issues.

Lester Arnold, the Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at RAND, directs the talent acquisition and organizational development strategies essential for maintaining a high-caliber research workforce. Overseeing the recruitment of top-tier policy analysts and subject matter experts, the Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the firm attracts individuals capable of solving intricate public policy challenges. Lester Arnold designs comprehensive professional development programs that foster continuous learning and intellectual growth among staff members. By implementing performance management systems that reward excellence and innovation, the Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer aligns individual contributions with the broader mission of the organization. This role involves cultivating an inclusive and collaborative work environment that supports diverse perspectives in research. Through the strategic management of human capital, Arnold strengthens the institutional capacity of the firm to deliver high-impact, evidence-based solutions to complex societal problems.