November 18, 2024 – On behalf of the Board of Directors and VillageReach leadership, we wanted to share our plans for future leadership at VillageReach.
Earlier this year, VillageReach announced its ambitious 2030 Strategy to reduce inequities in access to quality primary health care among the most under-reached communities, impacting 350 million people in Africa by 2030. As the organization approaches its 25th anniversary, this is an opportune moment to look ahead to the next chapter. In collaboration with the Board of Directors, VillageReach’s CEO, Emily Bancroft, has announced her intention to step down in mid-2025 to make space for a new leader. Emily will continue in her role during this transformative time to ensure a smooth transition until a new CEO joins.
During her seven years as CEO, Emily has established a clear vision for VillageReach. She has been instrumental in transforming the organization from a U.S.-based global health organization into a locally driven and globally connected structure with executive leadership and capacity distributed across Africa. She has laid the groundwork for a significant period of growth, including the opening of the Africa Regional Hub in Nairobi, Kenya, which is vital for supporting operations throughout the continent.
Since Emily joined VillageReach in 2010, the team consisted of just 15 staff members based in Malawi, Mozambique and the United States. The organization has expanded to include over 200 professionals across Africa and worldwide. This growth has given VillageReach the talent and momentum necessary to achieve its mission and effectively implement its responsive primary health care agenda. Under Emily’s leadership, VillageReach has increased access to quality health care for 111 million people from 20 million people in 2017.
We will have an opportunity to celebrate all the achievements we’ve reached during Emily’s leadership. The Board is enthusiastic about the progress towards the 2030 Strategy and supports VillageReach, Emily and soon the incoming CEO in their efforts.
In solidarity,
Sena Kwawu, Board Chair
Emily Bancroft, CEO & President