Susan Glasgow appointed Chief Executive of UNICEF Aotearoa

UNICEF Aotearoa is pleased to announce the appointment of Susan Glasgow as Chief Executive, effective Monday 23 March 2026.

 

Susan brings more than 25 years’ experience in senior leadership roles across the not-for-profit, education and philanthropic sectors in Aotearoa New Zealand and the United Kingdom. She currently serves as Chief Executive of Variety – the children’s charity, where she has led significant organisational growth, strengthened partnerships across government, corporate and philanthropic funders, and advanced advocacy in support of children’s rights. 

Susan’s career began in the United Kingdom, including seven years at Westminster School, London, where she held responsibility for alumni relations, philanthropy and fundraising, community engagement and events. After returning to Aotearoa New Zealand, she was appointed Director of Advancement at the University of Auckland Business School. 

In that role, Susan led major fundraising and engagement initiatives, including raising funds for the Business School’s $20 million Endowment Fund and the launch of the Business School’s component of the University-wide For All Our Futures campaign. Her tenure also included work associated with the lead-up to the opening of the Owen G Glenn Building in 2008. 

Susan later became Global Director of World Class New Zealand at Kea (the Kiwi Expatriates Association), before being appointed CEO of Variety in 2020. Across her career, she has built a strong reputation for people-centred, purpose-driven leadership, underpinned by an entrepreneurial mindset and a belief in the power of transformation. 

The Board has engaged closely with Susan over recent months and is excited about the opportunity ahead as UNICEF Aotearoa advances its strategy and continues to work for the rights and wellbeing of children in Aotearoa, the Pacific and around the world. 

UNICEF Aotearoa warmly welcomes Susan and looks forward to the leadership she will bring in advancing our mission — for every child.