Kate Maina-Vorley appointed as Elrha’s new CEO

We're delighted to announce the appointment of Kate Maina-Vorley as our new Chief Executive Officer, following an extensive global search.

Kate brings more than 25 years of frontline leadership in the humanitarian and development sector. She joins Elrha from her current role as CARE’s regional director for East and Central Africa and has previously held senior positions with Plan International, Education Development Trust, USAID, Project Concern International, UNICEF and Christoffel Blindenmission.

Throughout her career, Kate has been a champion of gender equality, localisation and resilience in humanitarian action. Her expertise in organisational leadership, strategic partnerships, resource mobilisation and advocacy will be key in shaping Elrha’s future, and in ensuring that research and innovation underpin approaches to complex humanitarian challenges.

Kate said:

“Now more than ever, the humanitarian sector must harness the power of research and innovation to tackle complex challenges. At Elrha, we have a vital role in ensuring that evidence drives real-world impact for people affected by crisis. I’m excited to join this incredible team and work together to drive meaningful change in the sector.”

Kate holds a master’s degree in business administration from Durham University in the UK and a bachelor’s degree in education from Moi University in Kenya.

On behalf of Elrha’s Board of Trustees, chair Jane Cocking said:

“We are delighted to have found Kate and are confident she brings exactly the energy, experience and qualities that Elrha needs for the next phase in its evolution and the challenges that inevitably lie ahead.”

Kate will take up her position in mid-May 2025, and we look forward to her leadership in advancing our mission – driving forward humanitarian outcomes through robust research and transformative new solutions.