As we make this transition to the new leadership team, I want to express my sincere appreciation for the remarkable contributions of those colleagues who will be leaving their executive management positions on 16 June 2025.
I am truly grateful to:
Dr Michael J. Ryan, Deputy Director-General and Executive Director for Health Emergencies, Preparedness, and Response. Mike planned to leave over two years ago but stayed on at my request, and I am very thankful for that. His steady presence has been instrumental during our toughest times, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. His dedication to emergency response has changed how we work, helping us face unprecedented challenges with compassion and effectiveness. I also appreciate his leadership during the prioritization process in these difficult times.
Dr Bruce Aylward, Assistant Director-General for UHC/Life Course for his key role in responding to public health emergencies like Ebola and COVID-19. He showed a unique talent for building partnerships through the ACT-A initiative, driving forward WHO's transformation agenda, and leading the development of the Fourteenth General Programme of Work, 2025–2028.
Dr Samira Asma, Assistant Director-General for Data, Analytics, and Delivery for Impact, for her strong commitment to improving the role of data, evidence, and measurable impact at the country level, and for establishing the WHO data hub.
Dr Catharina Cora Boehme, Assistant Director-General for External Relations and Governance, for her leadership in creating and driving the first-ever Investment Round aimed at sustainable financing for WHO and her earlier role as Chef de Cabinet.
Dr Li Ailan, Assistant Director-General for UHC/Healthier Populations, for her incredible leadership in WHO's Healthier Populations initiative. Her experience at both regional and country levels has been invaluable in ensuring our focus remains on prevention and addressing health issues that affect people's lives.
Dr Jérôme Salomon, Assistant Director-General, UHC/Communicable and Noncommunicable Diseases for his contribution in advancing the agenda on communicable diseases, noncommunicable diseases, mental health and neglected tropical diseases across silos to better integrate services and strengthen health systems.
As our colleagues move on to their next chapters, I want to thank them, once again, for their dedication to our mission and for their exceptional leadership and service.
