Dear friends,


As you know, listening closely to the communities we serve is at the core of how WITNESS develops resources, responds in critical situations, and collaborates on campaigns for human rights change. In short, we do the work we do because of you. 

We value our partnership with you and as such wanted to be the first to tell you about a leadership transition we’ve been planning at WITNESS. Following 14 years as Executive Director of WITNESS, Yvette Alberdingk Thijm will be stepping down from the role, providing the opportunity for an outstanding new leader to join an amazing team as we, collectively, move into the future. 

As a global human rights organization that is part of an ecosystem of communities, movements, and activists, WITNESS is constantly working to be as fully representative of our global communities as we can be. There is vibrant diversity and strong leadership throughout the global WITNESS team. The search for a new Executive Director, for which we partnered with an executive search firm, is an opportunity for us to continue our commitment to building an inclusive, thriving organization and global culture. In addition to collaborating with our global team and you, the new Executive Director will partner closely with Sam Gregory, our Director of Programs, Strategy and Innovation who leads the organization in our vision for just futures. 

We want to hear your suggestions and welcome any questions you have, as well as any recommendations for candidates. Details about the position and how to apply can be found here. The deadline to apply is October 21st, 2022.


In solidarity,


WITNESS U.S. Programs team