Leadership Transition at WJP

WASHINGTON, DC (Feb 21, 2018) – In a letter to supporters of the World Justice Project by founder and CEO William H. Neukom, the WJP today announced that following ten years of leadership at the World Justice Project, Juan Carlos Botero has stepped down as executive director to pursue his lifelong passion for research and teaching. The WJP is now engaged in a professional and comprehensive search for an Executive Director/Chief Operating Officer. In the interim, WJP's chief engagement officer, Nancy Ward, and chief research officer, Alejandro Ponce, will be serving as co-interim executive directors. 

The announcement is posted below:
 

Dear Friends of the WJP,

Following ten years of leadership at the World Justice Project, Juan Botero has stepped down as Executive Director. We are deeply grateful for Juan’s service to the Project, where he led the development of the WJP Rule of Law Index before becoming Executive Director in 2012. He has been instrumental to our progress and to the effort to advance the rule of law worldwide.

This transition will allow Juan to pursue his lifelong passion for research and teaching. In the near term, Juan will continue to provide guidance to the WJP as a special adviser on developing projects and opportunities.

Juan offered this comment on his transition: “It has been an honor and a privilege to serve for all these years under the inspiring leadership of Bill Neukom and the Board of Directors of the World Justice Project. My sincere appreciation goes out to the Project’s wonderful staff and volunteers, consortium of rule of law scholars, and friends around the world. I look forward to cheering on WJP’s successes for many years to come.”

The World Justice Project is now engaged in a professional and comprehensive search for an Executive Director/Chief Operating Officer. A description of the position can be found at WJP’s website on our Employment page. We request you share this opportunity widely with your personal and professional networks as we seek an outstanding candidate to lead WJP to greater growth and impact.

In the interim, our chief engagement officer, Nancy Ward, and chief research officer, Alejandro Ponce, will be serving as co-interim executive directors. We are fortunate to have these two veteran senior leaders at the helm.

This transition comes at a time of great energy and momentum at the World Justice Project. Never since we began the Project has the need for greater appreciation for the rule of law been more pressing or urgent, and never have our staff, board, or officers been more committed to our mission. We look forward to updating you on our progress and many new initiatives throughout the year.

Sincerely,

William H. Neukom
Founder and CEO
 

ABOUT THE WORLD JUSTICE PROJECT:

The World Justice Project (WJP) is an independent, multidisciplinary organization working to advance the rule of law worldwide.  Effective rule of law reduces corruption, combats poverty and disease, and protects people from injustices large and small. It is the foundation for communities of equity, opportunity, and peace—underpinning development, accountable government, and respect for fundamental rights. Learn more at:www.worldjusticeproject.org

MEDIA CONTACT:
press@worldjusticeproject.org
(206) 792-7676