Switzerland for UNHCR, the UN Refugees Agency’s national partner, is pleased to announce the appointment of Rémi Vallet as its new Executive Director, effective September 15, 2025. 

Since its creation, Switzerland for UNHCR has been steadily working to expand its impact in supporting UNHCR’s global mission. The exceptional mobilization in response to the Ukraine crisis in 2022 significantly accelerated its development, establishing the foundation as a trusted local fundraising partner. While 2025 presents a challenging environment for humanitarian organizations globally, Switzerland for UNHCR remains more committed than ever to mobilizing resources and raising awareness to help enable UNHCR to save lives, protect rights, and build better futures for people forced to flee because of conflict and persecution. 

Rémi Vallet joins Switzerland for UNHCR with extensive leadership experience and a strong track record in the humanitarian sector. With over 20 years of experience in the UN system and the non-profit world, he brings deep expertise in developing innovative funding mechanisms, strategic partnerships, and global fundraising strategies. His strong background in communications and advocacy will also be instrumental in raising awareness of UNHCR’s mission in Switzerland and Liechtenstein, strengthening long-term partnerships, and fostering greater public understanding and empathy for people forced to flee. 

In the face of a worsening global refugee crisis and the massive reduction in global humanitarian aid, Switzerland’s tradition of solidarity is more vital than ever. Switzerland for UNHCR plays a crucial role in connecting Swiss individuals, foundations and corporations with UNHCR’s life-saving work worldwide.  

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, Chair Andrés Luther stated: "I am very pleased to welcome Rémi Vallet as Executive Director. His appointment reflects our ambition to consolidate the foundation's role as a key enabler of UNHCR's work and expand its contribution to private sector fundraising from Switzerland and Liechtenstein. This comes at a critical time when UNHCR relies more heavily than ever on private sector support to address growing humanitarian needs worldwide. We are extremely grateful to Cristina Davies, the founding Executive Director of Switzerland for UNHCR for her dedication and achievements in building the foundation from the ground up. Her role was decisive in establishing a Swiss private sector fundraising base for UNHCR. A special thank you to Olivier Anselmo, the Deputy Executive Director for his work in advancing the foundation's development and for his critical role during this leadership transition." 

As the foundation enters this important new chapter, the entire team looks forward to welcoming Rémi Vallet as he takes up his new role in September.