Chris Williams Joins Safe Water Network as its New CEO

We our delighted to announce that Chris Williams is our new Chief Executive Officer. Chris brings a wealth of experience in the non-profit sector and with international organizations, most recently serving as the Director of the New York office of UN-Habitat, the agency responsible for affordable housing and sustainable urban development. 

Previously, Chris served as the Executive Director of the Water Supply and Sanitation Collaborative Council as well as in other senior positions at UN-Habitat in financing, political affairs, policy advocacy, and applied research. Prior to joining the United Nations, Chris worked in cities in East Africa and the United States promoting community economic development.

Chris holds a Ph.D. in Sociology from the Graduate Faculty of Social and Political Science at the New School for Social Research, an M.A. in Public Policy Studies from the Harris School at the University of Chicago, and a B.A. in Economics from Tufts University. 

Chris succeeds Kurt Soderlund, who has led the organization with passion, vision, and dedication since its founding in 2006. Under Kurt’s leadership, Safe Water Network has improved the lives of millions of people who otherwise would not have had access to safe water. As we transition, we are grateful for Kurt’s ongoing support and guidance.

Chris officially begins his new position on January 1, 2024.