UNDP Executive and Leadership Team

Natalie Jabangwe, the Chief Executive Officer, Timbuktoo Africa Innovation at UNDP, spearheads initiatives focused on fostering innovation and entrepreneurship across Africa. This executive role drives the strategic vision for the Timbuktoo program, aiming to unlock the continent's potential through technological advancement and sustainable business models. Jabangwe oversees the development and implementation of programs designed to support African innovators and startups, promoting economic growth and job creation. The leadership involves forging partnerships with key stakeholders, including governments, private sector entities, and academic institutions. Natalie Jabangwe's commitment to innovation directly contributes to UNDP's broader goals of sustainable development and economic empowerment throughout Africa.

Natalie MacDonald, the Chief Financial Officer at UNDP, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Overseeing the allocation of resources, MacDonald ensures that financial planning aligns with the organization's mission of sustainable development and disaster resilience. This leadership position involves managing budgets, financial reporting, and investment strategies to maximize impact across global initiatives. By optimizing financial workflows, Natalie MacDonald directly supports the operational capacity of UNDP's diverse programs. The role demands rigorous oversight of financial compliance and the strategic deployment of capital to foster democratic governance and enhance disaster preparedness in partner nations.

Olivier Salois, the Manager, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Office of at UNDP, oversees critical financial management functions. This role involves strategic financial planning and the execution of fiscal policies to support UNDP's global development agenda. Salois directs the financial operations within the designated office, ensuring adherence to international standards and organizational mandates. The responsibilities include budget oversight, resource allocation, and financial analysis to drive efficiency and accountability. By managing financial resources effectively, Olivier Salois contributes to the organization's capacity to implement programs focused on sustainable development, democratic governance, and disaster resilience across various regions.

Para Nematadzira, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer & Deputy Director, Ofrm at UNDP, provides essential support to the Chief Financial Officer in managing the organization's fiscal health. This role involves overseeing financial reporting, risk management, and internal controls to ensure robust financial governance. Nematadzira contributes to the development and implementation of financial strategies that underpin UNDP's global operations in sustainable development and disaster resilience. The position requires meticulous analysis of financial data and the formulation of recommendations to enhance efficiency and accountability. Para Nematadzira's expertise is crucial for maintaining the integrity of UNDP's financial systems and supporting its mission across diverse programmatic areas.

Paul Gravenese, the Treasurer & Deputy Chief Financial Officer at UNDP, manages the organization's treasury functions and supports overall financial strategy. This critical role involves overseeing cash management, liquidity, and financial risk mitigation to ensure the stability of UNDP's financial resources. Gravenese directs the investment of funds and manages banking relationships to optimize financial performance and safeguard assets. The responsibilities extend to ensuring compliance with financial regulations and internal policies, supporting the organization's mission in sustainable development and democratic governance. Paul Gravenese's expertise in treasury operations is fundamental to maintaining UNDP's financial integrity and enabling its extensive global reach.

Mamaye Gebretsadik, the Executive Associate To the Director and Chief of Staff, Executive Office, UNDP at UNDP, provides critical support to the executive leadership. This role involves coordinating high-level communications and managing administrative functions within the Executive Office. Gebretsadik facilitates the smooth operation of the Chief of Staff's office, ensuring efficient workflow and timely execution of directives. The position requires meticulous attention to detail in managing schedules, preparing reports, and liaising with various departments to support strategic objectives. Mamaye Gebretsadik's contributions are essential for maintaining the operational tempo of the executive leadership team, directly impacting UNDP's ability to advance sustainable development goals.

Hiwot Hailu, the Environmental Protection Authority of Chief of Staff (Ethiopia) at UNDP, directs strategic initiatives related to environmental protection and sustainable development within Ethiopia. This leadership position involves coordinating efforts between the Environmental Protection Authority and UNDP's broader operational framework. Hailu oversees the implementation of environmental policies and programs, ensuring alignment with national priorities and global sustainability goals. The role requires close collaboration with governmental bodies and international partners to foster resilience and manage environmental challenges. Hiwot Hailu's focus on environmental stewardship directly supports UNDP's mission to promote ecological balance and sustainable resource management in the region.

Fiona Bayat-Renoux, the Deputy Chief of Staff & Deputy Director, & Office of The Executive & Undp Administrator at UNDP, supports the strategic direction and operational execution of the Administrator's office. This senior role involves coordinating key initiatives and ensuring the efficient functioning of the executive leadership team. Bayat-Renoux assists in managing complex projects and facilitating communication across various departments and international partners. The position demands a deep understanding of UNDP's mandate in sustainable development, democratic governance, and disaster resilience. Fiona Bayat-Renoux plays a vital part in translating high-level strategies into actionable plans, thereby enhancing UNDP's global impact and operational effectiveness.

David Jordon, the Deputy Chief Information Officer & Communication, Change & Performance Management Chief at UNDP, leads critical initiatives in information technology and organizational transformation. This executive position oversees the strategic deployment of technology solutions to enhance UNDP's operational efficiency and program delivery. Jordon directs communication strategies related to IT projects and manages change management processes to ensure successful adoption of new systems and practices. The role involves fostering a culture of continuous improvement and performance excellence across the organization. David Jordon's leadership in IT and change management is vital for supporting UNDP's complex global mandate in sustainable development and disaster resilience.

Marija Vasileva-Blazev, the Special Assistant To Chief of Staff and Director, Executive Office - Undp at UNDP, provides dedicated support to the executive leadership team. This role involves managing complex administrative tasks, coordinating schedules, and facilitating communication within the Executive Office. Vasileva-Blazev assists in the preparation of reports and strategic documents, ensuring that key information flows efficiently to support decision-making processes. The position requires a high degree of organization and discretion in handling sensitive matters related to UNDP's global operations. Marija Vasileva-Blazev's contributions are integral to the smooth functioning of the executive office and the effective execution of UNDP's mission.