The Chair of the Elders, Kofi Annan, today announced the retirement effective 18 March 2016 of Ms Lesley-Anne Knight, the Chief Executive Officer of The Elders

12 February 2016 

The Chair of the Elders, Kofi Annan, today announced the retirement effective 18 March 2016 of Ms Lesley-Anne Knight, the Chief Executive Officer of The Elders.

In making the announcement, Mr Annan warmly praised Ms Knight’s work and commitment since being appointed to the role in January 2013.

Kofi Annan said:

“Lesley-Anne Knight has made a major contribution to shaping the global work and public advocacy of The Elders in the areas of climate change, women’s rights and sustainable development among others.”

He added that:

“She has shown an unwavering commitment to the mission of The Elders and worked hard to ensure our success”.

Mr Annan also announced that Mr Andrew Whitley, currently the Policy and Advocacy Director of The Elders will act as the interim CEO pending the appointment of Ms Knight’s successor.

The Elders are independent leaders using their collective experience and influence for peace, justice and human rights worldwide. The group was founded by Nelson Mandela in 2007.

The Elders are Martti Ahtisaari, Kofi Annan (Chair), Ela Bhatt, Lakhdar Brahimi, Gro Harlem Brundtland (Deputy Chair), Fernando Henrique Cardoso, Jimmy Carter, Hina Jilani, Graça Machel, Mary Robinson and Ernesto Zedillo.

Desmond Tutu is an honorary Elder.