Executive Transition Announcement: Ken Berta

On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff at the Center for Global Health Innovation (CGHI), I am writing to inform you that Ken Berta has announced his resignation as Executive Director of the Global Health Crisis Coordination Center (GHC3), effective June 4. He will take on a new role at Dell Technologies as the Life Sciences Business Lead and has agreed to stay on with GHC3 as a member of its Management Board and as co-host of GHC3 Talks podcast.

Ken has been a wonderful asset to our organization. Throughout his short tenure, Ken played an essential role in establishing the GHC3 and initiating its early programs to support the fight of COVID-19. From harnessing emerging technology and public health expertise in the public and private sectors to forming exciting partnerships with influential corporations, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies, Ken’s leadership was invaluable. GHC3 is now positioned as a leader in mobilizing the private sector to prepare for the world’s future health crisis response.

In Ken’s own words, he says “I am truly grateful for the experience I’ve had at the GHC3. The opportunity to partner with so many across the public and private sector, to harness collective passion and technology to create solutions for COVID-19 and make a global impact and build the GHC3 from the ground up. I’m proud of what we’ve done and thank the team at CGHI and my team at the GHC3 for everything.”

“Ken’s work ethic, command of complexity, devotion and partner focus have been exemplary,” said Maria Thacker-Goethe, CEO of the CGHI. “In his short time, Ken has been a mentor, broker of partnerships, and his influence has made an indelible impact on The Center and its future. We are thrilled to continue working closely with him in his exciting new role at Dell.”

“We are grateful to Ken and his central role in helping establish, under extraordinary conditions over the last year, a significant foundation for the GHC3” said Russell Medford MD, PhD, Chairman of the CGHI.  “This leadership transition comes at the right time for the GHC3 and the CGHI as we enter its second year with significant positive momentum for growth and impact as a precedent-setting and unique global health organization. “

The Board will establish a committee to lead the search for the next leader of the GHC3. In the interim, I’m pleased to share that Dr. Stephanie Adams has been appointed Interim Executive Director, effective June 7th. A member of Ken’s GHC3 leadership team since May 2020, Dr.  Adams brings more than 20 years of experience in the Biotech and Pharmaceutical industry. In her current role, she leads many GHC3 projects, and is well-positioned to continue building partnership and overseeing GHC3’s work.

Thank you for your continued support during this time of transition. Please join me in thanking Ken for his leadership, dedication and ongoing support, and in wishing him well in his next chapter with Dell.

Best regards,

Maria

CEO, Center for Global Health Innovation

mthacker@innovateglobalhealth.org