RAND Executive and Leadership Team

Dolev Shashua, the Chief Executive Officer at RAND, directs the organization's strategic vision and operational execution. Overseeing all research initiatives, Shashua ensures alignment with RAND's mission to provide objective analysis and effective solutions for public policy challenges. This leadership role involves guiding cross-functional teams in tackling complex societal issues, from national security to healthcare. By fostering a culture of intellectual rigor, Dolev Shashua drives the development of evidence-based recommendations that inform decision-makers worldwide. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to managing stakeholder relationships and championing the organization's commitment to nonpartisanship and public service. This executive ensures the long-term sustainability and impact of RAND's critical work.

Michael Sweet, the Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder at RAND, shapes the foundational strategy and ongoing development of the organization. As a Co-Founder, Sweet provides critical historical context and long-term vision for RAND's mission of addressing public policy challenges. This executive oversees the integration of research findings into actionable policy recommendations, ensuring RAND's continued relevance and impact. Michael Sweet drives initiatives that expand the organization's reach and deepen its analytical capabilities. The Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder's responsibilities include fostering innovation within research methodologies and cultivating strategic partnerships. Through dedicated leadership, Michael Sweet ensures the enduring legacy and effectiveness of RAND's contributions to societal well-being.

Guillermo Shakespeare, the Joint Chief Executive Officer at RAND, shares responsibility for the overarching strategic direction and operational management of the nonprofit research organization. Shakespeare collaborates with other executive leaders to advance RAND's mission of developing solutions to public policy challenges. This role involves overseeing key programmatic areas and ensuring the quality and impact of research outputs. Guillermo Shakespeare drives efforts to enhance RAND's analytical rigor and its capacity to address complex global issues. The Joint Chief Executive Officer's focus includes fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and promoting the application of research findings in real-world policy contexts. Through strategic oversight, Guillermo Shakespeare contributes to RAND's reputation for objective, evidence-based analysis.

Neal Schwab, the Chief Operating Officer at RAND, manages the day-to-day operations and ensures the efficient functioning of the organization. Schwab oversees critical administrative functions, including finance, human resources, and IT, supporting RAND's extensive research activities. This executive role is pivotal in optimizing resource allocation and streamlining internal processes to facilitate the development of public policy solutions. Neal Schwab drives operational excellence, ensuring that research teams have the necessary infrastructure and support to conduct their work effectively. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities extend to implementing strategic initiatives that enhance organizational capacity and sustainability. By focusing on operational efficiency, Neal Schwab directly contributes to RAND's ability to deliver impactful research.

Edgard Pietri, the President at RAND, directs strategic initiatives and oversees major research programs focused on public policy solutions. Pietri's leadership guides the organization in tackling critical societal issues, ensuring research integrity and impact. This executive role involves fostering collaborations with government agencies, foundations, and academic institutions to advance RAND's mission. Edgard Pietri drives the development of innovative research methodologies and the dissemination of findings to inform policy decisions. The President's responsibilities include championing RAND's commitment to objective analysis and its role in addressing complex global challenges. Through strategic oversight, Edgard Pietri enhances RAND's capacity to provide actionable insights.

Mena Samaan, the President at RAND, leads key strategic objectives and operational frameworks for the organization's research endeavors. Samaan focuses on enhancing RAND's capacity to deliver impactful solutions to public policy challenges across various sectors. This executive role involves guiding research teams in exploring complex issues and formulating evidence-based recommendations. Mena Samaan drives initiatives aimed at expanding RAND's influence and fostering innovation in policy analysis. The President's responsibilities include ensuring the effective translation of research insights into practical applications for policymakers. Through dedicated leadership, Mena Samaan strengthens RAND's commitment to objective, high-quality research.

Brent Bradley, the Office of the President at RAND, supports the strategic direction and operational execution of the organization's leadership. Bradley assists in coordinating key initiatives and ensuring the seamless functioning of research programs aimed at solving public policy challenges. This role is integral to facilitating communication and collaboration among executive teams. Brent Bradley contributes to the effective implementation of organizational strategies and the advancement of RAND's mission. The Office of the President's focus includes supporting high-level decision-making processes and ensuring alignment with the organization's core values. Through dedicated support, Brent Bradley enhances RAND's capacity for impactful policy analysis.

Herbert Shukiar, the President at RAND, leads strategic planning and oversees the execution of research projects focused on public policy. Shukiar guides the organization in addressing complex societal issues, ensuring the integrity and relevance of its findings. This executive role involves fostering collaborations and driving innovation in policy analysis. Herbert Shukiar champions RAND's mission to provide objective, data-driven solutions to policymakers worldwide. The President's responsibilities include enhancing the organization's capacity to tackle emerging challenges and disseminate research effectively. Through strategic oversight, Herbert Shukiar contributes to RAND's enduring commitment to public service.

Lester Arnold, the Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at RAND, leads all human capital strategies and initiatives. Arnold oversees talent acquisition, employee development, compensation, and benefits, ensuring RAND attracts and retains top research talent. This executive role is crucial for fostering a supportive and high-performing work environment that aligns with the organization's mission. Lester Arnold drives programs that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion across the workforce. The Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer's responsibilities include developing policies that support employee well-being and professional growth. By managing human resources effectively, Lester Arnold strengthens RAND's capacity to address complex public policy challenges.

John John smith, the Presidentq at RAND, directs critical aspects of the organization's strategic operations and research agenda. Smith oversees initiatives designed to develop effective solutions for pressing public policy challenges, ensuring RAND's continued impact. This executive role involves guiding teams in rigorous analysis and the formulation of actionable recommendations. John John smith drives efforts to enhance the organization's research capabilities and its responsiveness to evolving societal needs. The Presidentq's responsibilities include fostering a culture of intellectual inquiry and collaboration. Through focused leadership, John John smith strengthens RAND's commitment to providing objective, evidence-based insights.