The Board of ONE, a non-partisan global advocacy organization, has named Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli as its new President and CEO.
With over 25 years of experience in international development, Nwuneli brings extensive knowledge in various fields such as agriculture, nutrition, social innovation, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, advocacy, and youth development across Africa. She takes over from Gayle Smith and is scheduled to commence her duties on April 2, 2024.
In her new role, Nwuneli will lead ONE’s initiatives to enhance African countries’ access to necessary financing for development while also focusing on developing policies to bolster their autonomy, rallying political support, and mobilizing activists.
Expressing her commitment to this pivotal role, Nwuneli emphasized the importance of forging new partnerships, mobilizing innovative financing, promoting sustainable growth, and ensuring transparency and accountability in resource allocation. She acknowledged the tireless efforts of ONE’s founders, staff, and board over the past two decades, emphasizing the organization’s vital mission in the current African context.
Born on March 22, 1975, into an academic family, Nwuneli’s career trajectory spans notable achievements. She holds a bachelor’s degree with honors from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School.
Her professional journey commenced with McKinsey & Company, where she served in various capacities, including as a business analyst. Later, she returned to Nigeria to assume the role of Executive Director at the FATE Foundation. Nwuneli is also known for founding LEAP Africa and co-founding Sahel Consulting Agriculture & Nutrition Ltd. and AACE Foods Processing & Distribution Ltd.
Nwuneli’s contributions have garnered international recognition, including being named a Schwab Fellow, a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, and receiving honors from both the Nigerian government and Harvard Business School.
She has served on the boards of prominent organizations such as the Rockefeller Foundation, AGRA, Godrej Consumer Products Ltd., India, Stanbic IBTC Group, and the Young Global Leaders of the World Economic Forum, among others. Her dedication to public service has also seen her occupy roles as a visiting scholar and fellow at esteemed institutions worldwide.