ALEXANDRIA, VA (December 3, 2012) – United Way, the world’s largest privately-funded nonprofit, today announced a new organizational structure designed to capitalize on worldwide partnerships and more effectively leverage operational resources to create opportunities for a better life for all. An increased focus on distributed network leadership, expanded presence in United Way’s five worldwide regions, and strengthened U.S. network better position United Way as a catalyst for social change.
“With United Way’s impact priorities and worldwide reach, we have an incredible opportunity to increase our effectiveness and take programs to scale in communities throughout the United States and the world,” said Brian Gallagher, President and CEO of United Way Worldwide. “Community-based United Ways are changing lives and creating shared value with their partners, but in order to support the efforts and strategies of the network, our internal structure must better align and support their work.”
Elements of the new network design reflect the need to provide greater leadership and partnership opportunities. The plan includes:
- Expanded support and capacity-building teams resident in United Way regions: Africa and the Caribbean, Asia-Pacific, Europe and the Middle East, Latin America, and North America
- A more distinct U.S. focus including dedicated leadership and the appointment of U.S. President Stacey Stewart
- Increased resources and infrastructure to build new and grow existing public and private partnerships
- Scaling of education strategies throughout the worldwide network
- Creation of a new talent strategy and development plan
To support this new structure, it was necessary to reshape the United Way Worldwide organization and the composition of professional staff. Fifty-eight positions were created to carry out the new work, and by necessity, 60 positions were eliminated to allow for the flexibility needed to create change.
“Our goal is to foster a model of distributed leadership where the network leads the organization. We believe the outward-facing, service-oriented organizational structure will foster innovation and catalyze long-term community change,” said Gallagher.
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About United Way
United Way is a worldwide network in 41 countries and territories, including more than 1,200 local organizations in the U.S. It advances the common good, creating opportunities for a better life for all by focusing on the key building blocks of education, income and health. United Way recruits people and organizations who bring the passion, expertise and resources needed to get things done. LIVE UNITED® is a call to action for everyone to become a part of the change. For more information about United Way, please visit: UnitedWay.org.