The Board of Directors of the Global Partnership for Education (GPE), at its exceptional meeting, has appointed Laura Frigenti to be the Chief Executive Officer of GPE.
She fills the position left vacant following the departure of Alice Albright, who was appointed by the United States government to lead the Millennium Challenge Corporation.
Ms Frigenti has had a wide-ranging career in global development. She spent almost 20 years at the World Bank, working extensively in Africa and Latin America, before a spell as Chief of Staff to the President.
Her subsequent leadership roles have included a period as Director General of the Italian Agency for Development and Cooperation.
Her current role is as Global Head of International Development Assistance Services Institute at KPMG. Education has been a theme throughout.
Ms Frigenti brings a breadth of experience and an enduring commitment to education. She has led teams at national and global levels, and in both new and long-established organizations.
Her international knowledge and skill as a leader in times of change will, the Board believes, serve GPE well in the coming years.
The incoming Chief Executive will assume her role on 1 December 2022.
Until then, Mr Charles North will remain in his position as Acting Chief Executive, thereafter he will resume his role as Deputy Chief Executive.
HE Dr Jakaya Kikwete, GPE Board Chair and former President of Tanzania, said: “I am delighted to welcome Laura Frigenti as the new Chief Executive of GPE.
“Her wealth of experience with many of our partner countries will be invaluable as we seek, together, to tackle the barriers to education faced by millions of children.
“COVID-19 has damaged education systems which were already weak in too many places, there is an urgent need for action and leadership. I believe Laura, with support from the Board, can ensure GPE plays its part in meeting this challenge.”
“In searching for GPE’s new CEO, we conducted a wide-ranging and rigorous selection process,” said Dr Susan Liautaud, Vice-Chair of the GPE Board and Chair of the selection committee.
“Laura’s first-rate leadership skills, deep commitment to development and significant experience working with the breadth of partners that are needed to transform education made her the stand-out choice for the role. I look forward to welcoming her to GPE.”
Mr Charles North, GPE Acting Chief Executive, said: “I look forward to working with Laura and building together on the great achievements of GPE to date. We have a clear mandate and a highly motivated team, under Laura’s leadership, I am confident GPE will continue to grow in influence and impact.”
Ms Laura Frigenti, GPE Chief Executive-elect, said: “Education has been at the heart of my professional life. GPE’s mission to help every child to realise their potential is hugely inspiring to me and as Chief Executive I will be guided by it.
“The need is enormous, but so too is the potential of this partnership. It is a privilege to be asked to serve in this role.”
