UNICEF welcomes announcement of next Executive Director

NEW YORK (March 16, 2010) — UNICEF welcomed the UN Secretary-General’s announcement that Anthony Lake will take over as Executive Director of UNICEF after Ann M. Veneman’s term ends on 30 April.

Anthony Lake, a national of the United States, is currently Distinguished Professor in the Practice of Diplomacy at Georgetown University. Prior to this position, he had a long and distinguished career in the U.S. Government.

"Mr. Lake's abilities and extensive experience, including on the Board of the U.S. Fund for UNICEF, well-equip him to lead the global agenda for children," said Veneman.  "We will work closely with him to ensure a smooth and successful transition."

Anthony Lake will become the sixth Executive Director in UNICEF's sixty-three year history on May 1.

For more information, please contact:

Christopher de Bono, UNICEF Media, 212.303.7984, cdebono@unicef.org

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