UNICEF Executive Directors
Maurice Pate biography
Maurice Pate (1894-1965) was UNICEF's first executive director from January 1947 until his death in January 1965, a few months before he was to retire.
Henry R. Labouisse biography
American attorney and diplomat Henry R. Labouisse (1904 - 1987) took up the reins of leadership in June 1965 and held them until December 1979.
James P. Grant biography
The energetic advocate for children James P. Grant (1922 - 1995) became UNICEF's third Executive Director in January 1980.
Carol Bellamy biography
As fourth Executive Director of UNICEF, Carol Bellamy led the agency from 1995 to 2005. During her tenure, Ms. Bellamy focused on five major priorities.
Ann M. Veneman biography
Ann M. Veneman became UNICEF’s fifth Executive Director on 1 May 2005.
Anthony Lake biography
On 1 May 2010, Anthony Lake became the sixth Executive Director of UNICEF, bringing to the position more than 45 years of public service.