UNDP Executive and Leadership Team

Natalie Jabangwe, the Chief Executive Officer, Timbuktoo Africa Innovation at UNDP, spearheads the strategic vision and operational execution for Timbuktoo Africa Innovation. This leadership role focuses on fostering innovation and entrepreneurship across the African continent, driving economic growth and sustainable development. Jabangwe directs the organization's efforts in identifying and supporting promising ventures, building robust ecosystems for technological advancement. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include securing partnerships, managing investments, and ensuring the effective deployment of resources to achieve ambitious innovation goals. Natalie Jabangwe's leadership is pivotal in advancing Africa's innovation landscape and creating lasting socio-economic impact.

Natalie MacDonald, the Chief Financial Officer at UNDP, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Overseeing the global budget, MacDonald ensures robust financial planning and resource allocation to support UNDP's mission of sustainable development and poverty reduction. This leadership position involves managing financial risk, optimizing investment portfolios, and maintaining compliance with international financial regulations. By implementing stringent financial controls and driving efficiency across departments, Natalie MacDonald strengthens the organization's capacity to deliver impactful programs in governance and disaster resilience. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to financial reporting, audit coordination, and the development of long-term financial sustainability models essential for global reach.

Manab Mitra, the Group Chief Financial Officer, Wicklow at UNDP, oversees the financial health and strategic fiscal direction for the Wicklow operations. This executive role involves managing all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, and reporting, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainable growth. Mitra directs the implementation of financial policies and procedures, optimizing resource allocation to support operational objectives and programmatic success. The Group Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include financial analysis, risk management, and the development of strategies to enhance financial performance and efficiency. Manab Mitra's leadership ensures that financial resources are effectively deployed to achieve the organization's mission, driving value and accountability across all financial activities.

Paul Gravenese, the Treasurer & Deputy Chief Financial Officer at UNDP, manages the organization's treasury functions and supports the Chief Financial Officer in fiscal oversight. This role involves optimizing cash flow, managing financial instruments, and ensuring the security of UNDP's assets. Gravenese oversees investment strategies, debt management, and foreign exchange operations to mitigate financial risks and enhance returns. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include developing financial models, preparing financial forecasts, and ensuring compliance with international financial standards. Paul Gravenese's expertise is vital for maintaining financial stability and supporting the strategic allocation of resources across UNDP's global development initiatives.

Olivier Salois, the Manager, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Office of at UNDP, leads the financial management and strategic planning for the designated office. This executive position involves overseeing all financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting, to ensure fiscal integrity and operational efficiency. Salois directs the development and implementation of financial policies and procedures, aligning them with UNDP's broader mission of sustainable development and governance. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include managing financial risks, optimizing resource allocation, and providing critical financial insights to support decision-making. Olivier Salois's leadership ensures robust financial stewardship and contributes to the effective delivery of programs worldwide.

Marija Vasileva-Blazev, the Special Assistant To Chief of Staff and Director, Executive Office - UNDP at UNDP, provides critical support to the Chief of Staff and the Director of the Executive Office. This role involves managing complex administrative processes, coordinating high-level communications, and facilitating the smooth operation of the Executive Office. Vasileva-Blazev ensures efficient workflow and timely execution of strategic initiatives emanating from the Director's office. The Special Assistant's responsibilities include preparing briefing materials, organizing key meetings, and liaising with internal and external stakeholders to advance UNDP's development agenda. Marija Vasileva-Blazev's dedicated support is vital for maintaining the operational effectiveness of the Executive Office, enabling focused efforts on democratic governance and sustainable development.

Mamaye Gebretsadik, the Executive Associate To the Director and Chief of Staff, Executive Office, UNDP at UNDP, offers comprehensive administrative and operational support within the Executive Office. This position is central to managing the daily activities and strategic priorities of the Director and Chief of Staff. Gebretsadik handles scheduling, correspondence, and the preparation of essential documentation, ensuring seamless communication and coordination. The Executive Associate's role includes facilitating meetings, tracking action items, and supporting the implementation of key organizational projects related to sustainable development and governance. Mamaye Gebretsadik's meticulous attention to detail and proactive approach are instrumental in enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the Executive Office's leadership functions.

Fiona Bayat-Renoux, the Deputy Chief of Staff & Deputy Director, & Office of The Executive & Undp Administrator at UNDP, collaborates closely with the Chief of Staff to advance the Administrator's strategic objectives. This multifaceted role involves overseeing key initiatives, managing inter-departmental coordination, and ensuring the effective implementation of UNDP's global development programs. Bayat-Renoux contributes to policy development, strategic planning, and the operational management of the Executive Office, focusing on areas such as democratic governance and disaster resilience. The Deputy Chief of Staff's responsibilities include representing the Administrator in select forums and driving critical projects that enhance UNDP's impact. Fiona Bayat-Renoux's leadership ensures alignment across diverse teams and strengthens the organization's capacity to address complex global challenges.

Hiwot Hailu, the Environmental Protection Authority of Chief of Staff (Ethiopia) at UNDP, directs strategic initiatives focused on environmental protection and sustainable development within Ethiopia. This leadership position involves coordinating efforts with national authorities and international partners to implement robust environmental policies and programs. Hailu oversees the integration of environmental considerations into broader development strategies, ensuring ecological balance and resource conservation. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include managing key projects, fostering stakeholder engagement, and advising on environmental governance frameworks. Hiwot Hailu's expertise is crucial for advancing Ethiopia's environmental resilience and promoting sustainable practices aligned with global development goals.

David Jordon, the Deputy Chief Information Officer & Communication, Change & Performance Management Chief at UNDP, oversees critical aspects of the organization's information technology infrastructure and strategic communication. This executive role involves driving digital transformation initiatives, enhancing communication strategies, and ensuring effective performance management across IT operations. Jordon leads efforts to modernize systems, improve data security, and foster a culture of continuous improvement within the technology division. The Deputy CIO's responsibilities include managing IT projects, aligning technology solutions with UNDP's development objectives, and facilitating organizational change. David Jordon's leadership ensures that UNDP leverages technology effectively to advance its mission of sustainable development and global resilience.