We’re delighted to announce that Laura (Roberts) Alvin has joined us as our new Director for Leadership Development. Laura has over 15 years of experience in the development and microfinance industry and has been with the Opportunity Network since 1999.

She worked with the Network Office as the Communications & Governance Coordinator and Director of Member Services before moving to Africa. As the Director of HR she helped to establish both OIBM in Malawi and BOM in Mozambique. In 2008 she assumed the role of Director of Special Projects and led the initial development of the Emerging Leaders’ Program. From 2009 – 2012 Laura worked as a consultant for the Leadership Development team before rejoining full time on 1 June 2012. Laura has a degree in Communications from Miami University and speaks Portuguese and Spanish.

Laura, with husband Mark and sons Michael (10 months) and Jack (3)

I asked Laura two questions to help us get a better idea of who she is and what she’s going to be doing:

HT: What is your new role all about?

LA: The Director for Leadership Development position is focused on working with senior leaders and managers to be sure employee development needs are met through a variety of experiences, including training, mentoring, coaching, succession planning and performance management. My primary responsibilities for 2012 include the development and roll-out of a global Senior Management Training event, as well completing the transformation of the Emerging Leaders’ Programme – Next Gen into the New Manager Milestone event.

HT: Tell us a little about yourself…

LA: I have long been a keen runner as well as loving to hike and be outdoors in general. Now, as a mother to two small boys – my activities are less competitive and more about exploration and discovery! I am, however, participating in ‘Australia’s toughest endurance event’ – the 96km Kokoda Challenge bush walk next weekend – to raise money for troubled Australian youth.

I love having a lot of things on the go at once – and am the most efficient and alive when living in a state of ‘happy chaos’. My husband Mark and I both spent over 10 years living in Africa and look forward to returning someday with our boys. We have loved living in Australia but are looking forward to moving back to the US and closer to my family by the end of 2012.  I am thrilled to be ‘coming home’ to Opportunity and to once again be dedicating my energy to helping our incredible teams transform lives.

Please join me in welcoming Laura home!