Leadership Team
Team
Jake Stephenson
Passionate about humanitarian assistance and relief, Jake Stephenson serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the World Humanitarian Alliance (WHA), bringing with him a deep-seated passion for humanitarian causes and a transformative leadership style.
Working in close collaboration with the WHA Board of Directors, Jake has been instrumental in developing and implementing strategic initiatives that drive both domestic and global fundraising efforts and high-quality programs.
Known for his clear vision and unwavering purpose, Jake acts as a positive role model, embodying the core values of the organization with principle and integrity. He navigates organizational dynamics effectively, building strong informal networks and fostering a high-performing, collaborative team environment. His inspirational leadership presence, coupled with his understanding of the complex contexts of international aid work, enables him to effectively guide the organization through ambiguity towards innovative solutions.
Jake’s strong analytical skills have been pivotal in the creation and execution of clear business strategies, achieving strategic goals across fundraising, program management, advocacy, and financial reserves. His ability to establish and leverage strong stakeholder relationships further bolsters WHA’s mission. Under Jake’s stewardship, WHA continues to strive for excellence in productivity, and more importantly, empowering humanity together. Jake enjoys biking.
Rachel B. Gerren, MBA., LLM
As the Chief of Humanitarian Operations at the World Humanitarian Alliance (WHA), Rachel takes the lead in coordinating and advocating on critical issues associated with current humanitarian crises.
Her role involves defining WHA’s humanitarian priorities and strategies, ensuring an effective and efficient response when disaster strikes.
Rachel cultivates and maintains strong relationships with partner organizations, U.N. agencies, and other key humanitarian actors. She is the primary liaison for bilateral engagement on humanitarian operations with UN humanitarian agencies. In addition, Rachel represents WHA and its members in relevant media outlets, raising public awareness and support for pressing humanitarian issues.
Her responsibilities extend to fostering collaborations with other NGO consortia, focusing on humanitarian response and coordination. This includes the supervision of all country Working Groups and specific crisis responses.
In the academic sphere, Rachel actively explores avenues for engagement with institutions on matters of humanitarian curricula and practice.
Lastly, working in close coordination with Regional Directors, she oversees the fundraising and grant management for humanitarian practice-related activities and awards. Rachel has three grown children and enjoys baking and trying out new culinary styles.
Louisa Razan
Louisa Razan serves as the Chief Financial Officer for WHA, where she brings her extensive financial expertise to bear on a mission that is close to her heart. Her stewardship is characterized by meticulous financial management and strategic fiscal planning, helping to ensure the effective utilization of resources in the pursuit of WHA’s humanitarian objectives.
Louisa’s role involves overseeing all financial operations, from budget planning to financial reporting. She works tirelessly to maintain the organization’s financial health, ensuring that every dollar is optimally allocated towards projects that bring about the most significant impact. Her keen eye for detail and solid understanding of financial systems enable her to implement financial strategies that align with WHA’s goals.
A key aspect of her role is liaising with donors and financial institutions to secure necessary funding for WHA’s operations. In addition, she coordinates with other executive team members to strategize and make crucial financial decisions that will shape the future of the organization.
Under Louisa’s financial leadership, WHA continues to advance its mission of empowering humanity together, backed by a sound and sustainable financial strategy.
Jason Powell, Ph.D.
Jason Powell is the Chief of Technical Programs at WHA, where he harnesses his extensive technical expertise to drive forward the organization’s mission. Combining his passion for technology with his commitment to humanitarian work, Jason has made a significant impact on WHA’s operations worldwide.
In his role, Jason oversees the development and implementation of innovative technical programs that enhance the efficiency and reach of WHA’s humanitarian efforts. His work involves the application of technology in delivering aid, ensuring that resources get to those who need them most, quickly and effectively.
Jason’s responsibilities also encompass the digital transformation of WHA, integrating technology into various facets of the organization. From data analysis for informed decision-making to leveraging technology for effective communication and collaboration, his efforts have greatly increased WHA’s operational efficiency.
In addition to this, Jason plays a pivotal role in fostering partnerships with tech companies and research institutions. These collaborations help bring cutting-edge technological solutions to the complex challenges faced by WHA while responding to humanitarian cirses.
Through his visionary leadership, Jason ensures that WHA remains at the forefront of technological advancements, using these tools to amplify the organization’s humanitarian impact.
Edmond Harris, LLM.
Edmond Harris serves as the General Counsel for WHA, bringing a wealth of legal expertise and a deep commitment to humanitarian causes to the role. His extensive knowledge and experience in international law prove invaluable as he navigates the complex legal landscape of global humanitarian operations.
As General Counsel, Edmond provides crucial legal advice to the WHA, helping to shape policies and procedures that comply with international regulations. He ensures that the organization’s actions are legally sound, thus safeguarding WHA’s mission and reputation.
Edmond also plays a critical role in negotiating and drafting agreements with partner organizations, government entities, and donors. His expertise helps to build robust and legally compliant relationships that further the organization’s goals.
In addition to this, Edmond handles any legal disputes that may arise, leveraging his formidable negotiation and litigation skills to protect the interests of WHA. His work is guided by the principles of transparency, accountability, and integrity.
Through his strategic legal guidance, Edmond contributes significantly to the successful operations of WHA, ensuring the organization can focus on its primary goal: empowering humanity together.
Hendrik O’Connor, MPH., Dr.PH.
Hendrik O’Connor serves as the Executive Vice President of International Practice at WHA, a position where his profound understanding of global dynamics and expertise in international relations significantly contributes to the organization’s worldwide impact.
Hendrik excels at cultivating strategic partnerships with international bodies, governments, and other NGOs. These collaborations are integral to extending WHA’s reach and enhancing its ability to respond quickly and effectively to humanitarian crises.
His role also involves shaping WHA’s global strategies, factoring in geopolitical, social, and environmental considerations to craft responsive and effective plans. Hendrik’s work often requires him to navigate complex international scenarios, a task he undertakes with diplomacy and strategic acumen.
Through Hendrik’s leadership, WHA continues to uphold its commitment to empowering humanity together, adapting its approach to the multifaceted challenges faced across different parts of the world.
Jennifer Barron, SHRM-SCP.
Jennifer Barron is the Chief of Human Resources at WHA, bringing a wealth of experience and a people-centric approach to her role. Her leadership in HR has been instrumental in fostering a positive and productive work environment within the organization.
Jennifer oversees all aspects of human resources at WHA, from recruitment and onboarding to performance management and employee development. Her strategies focus on attracting and retaining a diverse, talented workforce committed to the organization’s humanitarian mission.
She is particularly skilled at nurturing a workplace culture that values respect, collaboration, and innovation. Jennifer recognizes the importance of employee well-being and satisfaction, implementing policies that support work-life balance and professional growth.
Jennifer also plays a pivotal role in workforce planning and organizational development. She works closely with other senior leaders to ensure that the organization’s human resources strategies align with WHA’s broader objectives.
Under Jennifer’s stewardship, WHA has not only grown its team but also enhanced employee engagement and productivity. Through her work, she continues to contribute significantly to the organization’s mission of empowering humanity together.
Raymond Parnell
Raymond Parnell serves as the Senior Director of Global Humanitarian Emergency Affairs and Response at the World Humanitarian Alliance (WHA). In this pivotal role, he applies his extensive experience and sharp strategic thinking to manage the organization’s response to humanitarian emergencies worldwide.
Raymond is responsible for directing WHA’s rapid response efforts in times of crisis. He coordinates the immediate deployment of resources and personnel to disaster-stricken areas, ensuring prompt and effective aid delivery.
Beyond immediate response, Raymond oversees the development and implementation of sustainable recovery programs. He collaboratively works with local communities, governments, and other humanitarian organizations to rebuild and rehabilitate areas affected by crises.
Raymond also plays a key role in risk management, preparing the organization for potential emergencies by developing and implementing comprehensive response strategies. His work involves constant monitoring of global events, allowing WHA to anticipate and swiftly respond to emerging crises.
Under Raymond’s leadership, WHA continues to make a significant difference in the lives of individuals affected by disasters. His tireless commitment to rapid and effective emergency response embodies WHA’s mission of empowering humanity together.
Do Good Deeds
More People
More Possibilities
The World Humanitarian Alliance (WHA) is firmly rooted in the principle of Humanity, recognizing and addressing the suffering of individuals across the globe, with an unwavering commitment to respect and protect human life and dignity. We are waiting for you to join us
