Robert Mardini
Experience & Background
Robert Mardini is Director General of the International Committee of the Red Cross. The organization of more than 20,000 staff members in over 100 countries around the world works to ensure better respect for international humanitarian law by parties to conflict, improve the protection of and access to people affected by war and extreme violence globally, and better respond to their humanitarian needs.
Mardini has over 25 years of experience in response management on the frontlines of armed conflicts, complex emergencies, and other crises with global dimensions. He has been a key figure in shaping the debate on key humanitarian, political, and societal challenges and opportunities in contemporary conflicts and crises. Areas of focus include the changing nature of warfare and violence and its impact on our societies, leadership in extreme situations, public health, digital transformation and its risks and opportunities, conflict and climate change, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
With a background in engineering, he is passionate about translating multidimensional problems into practical solutions on the ground for people and communities living in conflict-affected and fragile settings and for his teams.
In 2020, he received the Alumni Award from Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) in recognition of “the leader whose skills, strategic vision and engagement have led to an exceptional career in one of the world’s most impactful organizations, directly contributing to the protection of human lives around the world.”
In 2021, he was elected to the Swiss Academy of Engineering Sciences in recognition of his ability to mobilize teams to provide effective emergency aid to victims of major armed conflicts.
Expertise & Interests
Leadership, humanitarian affairs, crisis management and negotiation, organizational development, international relations, diplomacy, public health, corporate and public communications, public affairs and reputation management, mentoring, and sponsoring innovation.
Contributions to IMD
Guest speaker, research project ad-hoc support, student mentoring.