The Centre for Disaster Protection, an esteemed organization dedicated to enhancing disaster preparedness and response globally, has announced the appointment of Emily White as its new Chief Finance and Operations Officer. This newly established position is designed to propel the Centre into its next phase of growth by improving its operational capabilities and addressing the increasing momentum in global disaster protection initiatives. With two decades of experience in disaster risk financing, White's expertise will be instrumental in expanding the Centre’s impact and building stronger partnerships.
Achieving Strategic Growth with Expert Leadership
In a significant development, the Centre for Disaster Protection has introduced a pivotal role aimed at driving its strategic expansion. The appointment of Emily White as the Chief Finance and Operations Officer marks a crucial step towards achieving this goal. White’s extensive background in disaster risk financing, spanning re/insurance, insurance-linked securities, and international development, positions her uniquely to lead this transformation. Her previous roles include Head of Catastrophe and Climate Analytics at Flood Re, Senior Manager of Weather Modelling at Lloyds Banking Group, and key positions at prestigious institutions such as The World Bank and Lloyd’s of London.
White has also contributed significantly to projects like the World Bank Pacific Catastrophe Insurance Pilot for Pacific Island governments, Global Parametrics, and VisionFund’s ARDIS scheme for microfinance institutions. Her involvement in the first parametric flood catastrophe bond for the UK further underscores her comprehensive understanding of disaster risk finance challenges and opportunities.
Daniel Clarke, Director of the Centre for Disaster Protection, expressed optimism about White’s addition to the team. He highlighted her proven track record in organizational growth, finance, and operations, which will be vital as the Centre seeks to expand its in-country work and build robust partnerships while adhering to its mission and values.
In her inaugural statement, White conveyed her enthusiasm for joining the Centre. She emphasized the unique opportunity to build on the Centre’s past successes and strengthen its delivery mechanisms to meet the growing demand for effective, evidence-based approaches to managing disaster costs. With her leadership, the Centre aims to enhance its impact and address the pressing need for better disaster management strategies.
As we approach 2025, the Centre for Disaster Protection is well-positioned to make significant strides in its ambitious agenda, thanks to White’s expertise and vision.
From a reader's perspective, this appointment signifies a promising step forward in the global effort to mitigate the financial impact of natural disasters. It highlights the importance of having experienced professionals in leadership roles who can navigate complex challenges and leverage innovative solutions. The Centre’s commitment to expanding its reach and strengthening partnerships offers hope for more resilient communities worldwide.