19 Nov 2020
Leadership Change at Fairtrade International
Dario Soto Abril has informed the Fairtrade International (FI) Board that he will be stepping down from his role as CEO in February 2021. After four years with the Fairtrade system, Dario will be taking on a new challenge as the Executive Secretary of the Global Water Partnership in March 2021.
Having successfully led an inclusive, 18-month process to develop Fairtrade’s next global strategy, Dario feels that Fairtrade International and the global system are in a strong position to move forward and deliver the exciting new growth strategy.
The FI Board has regretfully accepted Dario’s resignation and offer its deep gratitude for his dynamic leadership and unyielding commitment to the Fairtrade mission throughout the last four years. “Dario has had a transformational impact across the Fairtrade movement and on behalf of the Board and all of the Members we wish him well,” said Mary Kinyua, Chair, Fairtrade International Board.
“It has been an enormous privilege to serve as the CEO of the Fairtrade system for the last four years, alongside so many dedicated people. I thank the Board and the Members for the opportunity,” said Dario. “Of course, Fairtrade will always have a place in my heart,” he added.
The Board is keen to ensure that continuity will be a priority, in particular as we work together to implement our new strategy. National Fairtrade Organizations, Fairtrade Marketing Organizations and the Fairtrade Producer Networks will continue their path of strong partner relations and quality services to farmers and workers, as they have always done. Our talented team in Bonn will continue delivering quality services and support with all of the same energy and enthusiasm.
The leadership transition plan to cover the period from Dario’s departure date on 12 February 2021 until the recruitment of the next global CEO will be developed and communicated in the coming weeks.