Gov Mtg Minutes 8 March 2011
GAVI Alliance Governance Committee Meeting , 8 March 2011 FINAL M INUTES
Gov -2011 -Mtg -1 1
GAVI Alliance Governance Committee Meeting
8 March 2011
Teleconference
FINAL MINUTES
Finding a quorum of members present, the meeting commenced at 17.02 Geneva
time on 8 March 2011 . Dagfinn H?ybr?ten , Governance Committee Chai r chaired
the meeting.
1. Nomination of the CEO
The Chair reported that the CEO Succession Committee forwarded Seth Berkley,
founder, President, and CEO of the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI) to be
GAVI?s next chief executive. He reviewed the search process , which included
chartering the CEO Succession Committee and its core and reference groups,
advertising for the role, shortlisting candidates , and conducting interview s and
reference checks (Doc #1 in the Committee pack). The Chair reviewed the excellent
qualifications of the finalist candidates and noted the characteristics and qualities
that ultimately led to Dr Berkley?s recommendation. Discussion followed:
? The Governance Committee was pleased with the thorough, comprehensive,
and inclusive search process. Though it had taken time to conduct, the
process yielded an excellent nominee.
? Dr Berkley is an innovative leader; has a strong, compelling presence; is an
effective m anager, and is already a successful fundraiser and advocate for
the power of vaccines. In addition, h e understands how to interact with a
governing board . Nevertheless, the Governance Committee stands ready to
assist Dr Berkley in working effectively wit h the GAVI Board.
? The constituency of one of the reference group members preferred a different
finalist. However, the constituency considered Dr Berkley a first -rate
candidate and supported his appointment if the other board members were to
as well.
? Dr Berkley would likely commence day -to -day responsibilities toward the end
of the summer of 2011. However, he may be able to attend the Board retreat
in April, the pledging meeting in June, and the Board meeting in July. In the
meantime, Helen Evans will c ontinue to serve as interim CEO with the
appreciation and confidence of the Chair.