World Food Programme Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

World Food Programme has 4 executives leading key functions including programme delivery, human resources, and governance.

Driven by a mission to eradicate hunger, World Food Programme implements critical food assistance programs and develops sustainable solutions to improve food security and nutrition across more than 70 countries, impacting vulnerable communities globally.

Leadership Roles at World Food Programme

  • President - Rossi Palmieri
  • President of WFP-TL National Staff Association - Elder Nunes
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Marceline Gakobwa
  • Programme Officer - Guy Onambele
  • Rossi Palmieri - President

    Rossi Palmieri, the President at World Food Programme, provides overarching strategic direction and governance for the global humanitarian organization. Leading the executive team, the President ensures alignment with the core mission of eradicating hunger and improving food security across more than 70 countries. This critical role involves fostering strong relationships with international bodies, governments, and non-governmental organizations to enhance collaborative efforts in emergency response and long-term development initiatives. By championing the organization's values and objectives, Rossi Palmieri guides the expansion of programs aimed at building resilience against food insecurity. The President's leadership is fundamental to mobilizing resources and advocating for sustainable solutions to malnutrition and hunger on a global scale.

    Elder Nunes - President of WFP-TL National Staff Association

    Elder Nunes, the President of WFP-TL National Staff Association at World Food Programme, champions the interests and welfare of national staff members across operational territories. Leading the association, the President advocates for fair labor practices, professional development opportunities, and supportive working conditions essential for humanitarian efforts. This role involves close engagement with World Food Programme leadership to ensure that the perspectives and needs of national staff are integrated into organizational policies and operational strategies. By fostering a cohesive and empowered national workforce, Elder Nunes directly contributes to the effective delivery of food assistance and the implementation of programs aimed at improving food security. The focus remains on building a strong, unified staff base that sustains the organization's mission in vulnerable communities.

    Marceline Gakobwa - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Marceline Gakobwa, the Chief Human Resources Officer at World Food Programme, architects the global human capital strategy to support the organization's extensive humanitarian operations. Overseeing all facets of human resources, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the recruitment, development, and retention of a skilled workforce dedicated to fighting hunger worldwide. This leadership position involves fostering a culture of collaboration and resilience across operations spanning Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. By aligning HR policies with the organization's mission, Marceline Gakobwa drives initiatives that enhance employee well-being and operational effectiveness. The strategic direction provided by the Chief Human Resources Officer is crucial for maintaining a robust and motivated team capable of responding to complex global challenges and delivering essential food aid.

    Guy Onambele - Programme Officer

    Guy Onambele, the Programme Officer at World Food Programme, directs critical food assistance initiatives across diverse operational regions. Overseeing the implementation of vital programs, the Programme Officer ensures the effective delivery of food aid and the development of sustainable solutions to combat hunger and malnutrition. This role involves close collaboration with local communities and international partners to address immediate needs and build long-term resilience against food insecurity. By managing project lifecycles and resource allocation, Guy Onambele directly contributes to the organization's mission of reaching the most vulnerable populations. The focus remains on optimizing operational efficiency and maximizing the impact of food security interventions across multiple continents.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding World Food Programme Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads World Food Programme?
    World Food Programme is led by Rossi Palmieri (President), along with executives such as Elder Nunes (President of WFP-TL National Staff Association) and Marceline Gakobwa (Chief Human Resources Officer).
    Who is part of World Food Programme’s executive team?
    The executive team of World Food Programme includes leaders such as Rossi Palmieri (President), Elder Nunes (President of WFP-TL National Staff Association), Marceline Gakobwa (Chief Human Resources Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does World Food Programme have?
    World Food Programme has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in World Food Programme’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of World Food Programme includes roles such as President, President of WFP-TL National Staff Association, Chief Human Resources Officer, Programme Officer.