Special Olympics Executive and Leadership Team

Barry Coats, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Special Olympics, directs the organization's overarching strategy and operational execution. Coats guides the global mission to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. This leadership role involves fostering an inclusive environment and empowering participants through sport. Overseeing all major initiatives, Coats ensures alignment with the core values of Special Olympics. The Chief Executive Officer drives the organization's growth and expands its reach to serve more athletes worldwide. By championing innovation in program development, Barry Coats directly impacts the lives of countless individuals, promoting physical fitness, courage, and joy.

Jennifer Haines, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Special Olympics, spearheads the strategic direction and operational framework for the organization. Haines leads the charge in delivering year-round sports training and athletic competitions, ensuring access for children and adults with intellectual and physical disabilities. This executive position involves cultivating a culture of inclusion and empowering athletes. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include driving organizational growth and enhancing program delivery across all regions. By focusing on athlete development and community engagement, Jennifer Haines ensures the Special Olympics mission thrives. Haines's leadership directly contributes to fostering courage, joy, and a sense of belonging among participants globally.

Adam Germek, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Special Olympics, directs the organization's strategic vision and operational execution. Germek leads the global effort to provide year-round sports training and athletic competitions for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. This critical role involves fostering an inclusive environment and empowering athletes through sport. The Chief Executive Officer oversees all major initiatives, ensuring alignment with Special Olympics' core values and mission. Adam Germek drives the organization's expansion and enhances program delivery to reach more participants worldwide. By championing innovation and athlete well-being, Germek directly impacts the development of courage, joy, and community.

Tracy Painter, the Chief Financial Officer at Special Olympics, directs the organization's financial strategy and fiscal management. Painter oversees budgeting, financial planning, and reporting to ensure the sustainable operation of sports training and athletic competitions for individuals with disabilities. This executive position involves safeguarding organizational assets and optimizing financial resources. The Chief Financial Officer collaborates with leadership to secure funding and manage expenditures effectively. Tracy Painter ensures financial transparency and accountability across all programs. By maintaining robust financial health, Painter supports the Special Olympics mission of inclusion and empowerment through sport.

Matthew Aaron, the Chief Operating Officer at Special Olympics, manages the day-to-day operations and ensures the efficient delivery of programs. Aaron oversees the execution of sports training and athletic competitions, supporting athletes with intellectual and physical disabilities. This role involves optimizing internal processes and resource allocation to maximize impact. The Chief Operating Officer collaborates with regional leaders to implement strategic initiatives effectively. Matthew Aaron focuses on enhancing operational scalability and ensuring seamless program delivery across diverse geographic areas. By driving operational excellence, Aaron contributes to the organization's ability to foster inclusion and empower athletes globally.

Kathy Wilson, the Office of the Chief Operating Officer and President and Managing Director, Special Olympics Africa at Special Olympics, leads operational oversight and regional management for the African continent. Wilson directs the implementation of sports training and athletic competitions, ensuring access for athletes with intellectual and physical disabilities across Africa. This dual role involves driving operational efficiency and fostering regional growth. The President and Managing Director, Special Olympics Africa champions the organization's mission within diverse cultural contexts. Kathy Wilson focuses on expanding program reach and impact throughout the region. By leading African operations, Wilson empowers athletes and promotes inclusion across the continent.

Jocelyn Hong, the Co President of Duke Chapter at Special Olympics, leads the local chapter's initiatives and operations. Hong directs the organization of sports training and athletic events for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities within the Duke community. This leadership role involves coordinating volunteers and ensuring program accessibility. The Co President of Duke Chapter fosters a spirit of inclusion and empowers student athletes. Jocelyn Hong works to expand the chapter's reach and engagement. By leading the Duke Chapter, Hong contributes to the broader Special Olympics mission at a grassroots level.

Erin Zafian, the President at Special Olympics, leads the strategic direction and operational execution for the designated chapter or region. Zafian oversees the provision of year-round sports training and athletic competitions, ensuring opportunities for children and adults with intellectual and physical disabilities. This executive position involves fostering an inclusive environment and empowering participants through sport. The President drives the chapter's growth and enhances program delivery. Erin Zafian focuses on expanding the organization's impact and community engagement. By leading local efforts, Zafian directly contributes to the Special Olympics mission of inclusion and athletic achievement.

Kyle Hartman, the President at Special Olympics, directs the strategic initiatives and operational management for the assigned chapter or region. Hartman oversees the delivery of sports training and athletic competitions, providing crucial opportunities for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. This leadership role involves cultivating an inclusive atmosphere and empowering athletes. The President drives program expansion and enhances community outreach. Kyle Hartman focuses on increasing participation and strengthening local support networks. By leading regional operations, Hartman significantly contributes to the Special Olympics goal of global inclusion and athletic development.

Ayman Wahab, the Regional President, Middle & Africa (East, North) at Special Olympics, leads strategic operations and program development across a key geographic area. Wahab directs the expansion of sports training and athletic competitions, ensuring access for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities throughout the Middle East and North Africa. This role involves fostering regional partnerships and driving operational excellence. The Regional President, Middle & Africa (East, North) champions the organization's mission within diverse markets. Ayman Wahab focuses on enhancing program impact and participant engagement across multiple countries. By leading this vital region, Wahab empowers athletes and promotes inclusion on a significant scale.