Last week, the International Water Association (IWA), a leading network of water professionals world-wide, announced it has appointed Ger Bergkamp (Ph.D.) as its new executive director. Bergkamp is taking up this position following the footsteps of former executive director Paul Reiter, who stepped into the role of IWA Strategic Counsel in December 2012 on a part time basis and relocated to work from the IWA Office in Singapore. The selection by the IWA Board was made after a global search and selection process, during which Bergkamp served as the IWA Interim executive director.
?We are very pleased to announce this appointment,? said Glen Daigger, president of the IWA. ?Ger will bring leadership and creativity to the IWA along with a deep sense of commitment to the association and the water and wastewater sector at large. Ger comes with significant and relevant experience having been a senior executive with the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and more recently the director-general (CEO) of the World Water Council. Ger brought unique skills and insights to the Association in his previous role as Regional and Programmes Director, and he will continue to do so as Executive Director.?
?I look forward to continuing to serve the IWA and work with all members, participants and partners to strengthen the water profession,? said Bergkamp. ?I am dedicated to the water and waste water sector as it addresses vital needs of societies around the world. The IWA is in a unique position to continue to play a key role in supporting water professionals to exchange, learn and update their knowledge, skills and know-how. Building on its unique global network IWA will focus further on connecting people, pioneering science and leading practice.?
Bergkamp will lead a talented and committed group of professionals who serve the IWA through its Secretariat located around the world. ?We are at a unique time in the history of water on this planet, and in the history of the IWA. We are an Association of leaders, working to advance the management of water on the planet,? said Daigger. I know that Ger will be an excellent member of our global team during this important time of change.?
