/integrated-health-services-(ihs)/traditional-complementary-and-integrative-medicine-(tci)/who-logo.tmb-1200v.jpg?sfvrsn=270e6d33_6 "WHO Leadership: Gratitude & Recognition"){kind=logo}
WHO Leadership: Gratitude & Recognition
- The World Health institution (WHO) is undergoing a leadership transition, with several executive management members departing June 16.
- Ryan, Deputy Director-General and Executive Director for Health Emergencies, Preparedness, and Response.
- Bruce Aylward, Assistant Director-General for UHC/Life Course, is also departing. He played a key role responding to public health emergencies such as Ebola and COVID-19.
The World Health Organization honors outgoing leaders as it transitions to a new phase. The WHO expresses deep gratitude for the critical contributions of departing executives, including Dr. Michael Ryan, recognized for his pivotal role in emergency response, especially during COVID-19, who, at the request of the WHO, dedicated years to combating global health crises. The WHO further acknowledges Dr. Bruce aylward’s vital leadership in building robust partnerships through initiatives like ACT-A and developing the Fourteenth General Programme of Work. Also cited were Dr. Samira Asma, Dr. Catharina Cora Boehme, Dr. Li Ailan, and Dr. Jérôme Salomon, each lauded for advancements in data, external relations, and vital health programs. Read on at News Directory 3 to learn more. Discover what’s next for the WHO.
WHO Announces Leadership Team Transition, Acknowledges Key Roles
Updated May 30, 2025
The World Health institution (WHO) is undergoing a leadership transition, with several executive management members departing June 16. The organization expressed gratitude for thier contributions to global health initiatives and emergency response.
Among those leaving is Dr. Michael J. Ryan, Deputy Director-General and Executive Director for Health Emergencies, Preparedness, and Response. His extended tenure, at the request of the WHO, saw him playing a vital role during the COVID-19 pandemic. The WHO acknowledged his dedication to emergency response, which it said changed how the organization addresses global health crises.
Dr. Bruce Aylward, Assistant Director-General for UHC/Life Course, is also departing. He played a key role responding to public health emergencies such as Ebola and COVID-19. The WHO noted his talent for building partnerships through the ACT-A initiative and leading the development of the Fourteenth general Program of Work, 2025–2028.
Also recognized for their service were Dr. Samira Asma, Assistant Director-General for Data, Analytics, and Delivery for Impact, for her work improving the role of data; dr. Catharina Cora Boehme, Assistant Director-General for External Relations and Governance, for her leadership in sustainable financing; Dr. Li Ailan, Assistant Director-General for UHC/Healthier Populations, for her work in prevention; and Dr. Jérôme Salomon,Assistant Director-General,UHC/Communicable and Noncommunicable Diseases,for his work integrating services and strengthening health systems.
What’s next
The WHO will continue its mission with a new leadership team, building upon the foundation laid by the departing executives. The organization remains focused on addressing global health challenges and ensuring a healthier future for all.