Executive leadership within WELO is responsible for the operational coordination of the organisation and the implementation of decisions adopted by the Governing Committee. These roles ensure the effective administration, development, and international coordination of WELO activities.

Executive leadership operates within the governance framework established by the WELO Charter and works in close coordination with the Chair, Vice-Chairs, and national representatives.

Secretary-General

Slavas Palkevicius

The Secretary-General serves as the chief executive officer responsible for the operational leadership and day-to-day coordination of WELO. While the Chair leads the Governing Committee strategically, the Secretary-General ensures the implementation of decisions, the administration of programmes, and the institutional continuity of the organisation.

The position is nominated by the Founding Organisation (SUL Education) and serves a four-year term aligned with the Governing Committee cycle.

Responsibilities

• Oversees the global operational management of WELO
• Ensures the implementation of Governing Committee decisions
• Coordinates subcommittees and national frameworks
• Supervises governance procedures and institutional compliance
• Manages official documentation, records, and organisational continuity
• Oversees operational timelines, reporting systems, and programme execution
• Acts as the primary institutional contact for global partners
• Safeguards transparency, procedural integrity, and governance standards

In this capacity, the Secretary-General serves as the operational leader of WELO, ensuring that the strategic decisions of the Governing Committee are implemented effectively across participating countries.

Head of Business Development

Berenice Oliva

The Head of Business Development supports the international expansion and long-term sustainability of WELO by developing strategic partnerships and supporting the organisation’s global growth initiatives.

This role operates in coordination with the Chair and the Vice-Chair for Sponsorship, Brand & External Relations to ensure alignment between governance, partnerships, and international development.

Responsibilities

• Develops international growth and expansion strategies
• Identifies and establishes strategic global partnerships
• Supports national committees in sponsorship development
• Coordinates institutional partnerships beyond the public tender framework
• Aligns partnership development with the WELO Charter and governance standards
• Supports long-term sustainability planning for WELO programmes

The Head of Business Development may be nominated by the Chair and confirmed by the Governing Committee.

This position strengthens WELO’s institutional capacity while ensuring that partnership development remains aligned with the organisation’s governance principles and transparency standards.