DI appoints Clarence Edwards as Head of External Relations, US

DI is excited to announce the appointment of Clarence Edwards as Head of External Relations, US – a brand new role within the organisation. Based in Washington DC, he will raise awareness of DI’s work and build relationships with key stakeholders in US government, the private sector, foundations, think tanks and civil society organisations.

Harpinder Collacott, Executive Director at DI, said: “As we enter the decade of delivery, driving immediate action to get data at the heart of efforts to eradicate poverty is a key priority. Clarence will be focusing on ensuring we are reaching those who can benefit from our vital work at global, national and local levels to improve data and its use to end poverty, reduce inequality and protect those in crisis.”

Clarence’s background includes more than two decades working at senior levels in the political and international relations arenas. Last year, he advised non-profits in Oregon and California on their outreach and fundraising strategies. For six years he served as the Senior Advisor for International Development Policy at the Australian Embassy in Washington, DC. In this role he expanded the Australian aid program’s relationships in the US, helped design the aid program’s private sector engagement strategy, and connected Australian social entrepreneurs with potential funding opportunities.

Prior to his work for the Australian government, he represented philanthropic foundations, non-profits, and celebrities on political strategies that resulted in multi-billion dollar funding increases for US development assistance programs.

Speaking on his appointment, Clarence said: “I’m excited about joining the Development Initiatives team. DI’s mission to ensure that people living in extreme poverty are not left behind is critical, particularly in this era of rapid technological and societal change. I’m eager to share DI’s story with audiences in the US and increase awareness of the valuable work they do around the world.”