The IPPF Welcomes a New Executive Director
by Marc Yale
It is with mixed emotions that I inform you that I am stepping down as the Executive Director of the IPPF. Over the past several months, the IPPF performed an intensive search for a new executive director to lead our community going forward. We were fortunate to find an experienced individual who is equipped to meet the unique challenges that our community faces. The IPPF is in good hands with Kevin Mead, who will be taking over as the Executive Director of the IPPF.
Although I am stepping down, I will continue to volunteer part-time with the IPPF and serve in the new role of Advocacy/Research Coordinator. I will continue to work to advance disease awareness, patient advocacy, and accelerate research and development for the IPPF community. After being diagnosed with MMP, I joined the IPPF in 2008 as a peer health coach. I have served, and will continue to serve, in that capacity as well.
Thank you for your unwavering support, and please join me in welcoming Kevin! I look forward to watching the IPPF continue to move forward in support of patients around the world, be a leading advocate for the rare disease community, and advance research toward finding a cure!
“I am delighted to join the Foundation. It is clear that the team of staff, Board of Directors, and volunteers have built a responsive and dynamic organization. I look forward to being a part of the next chapter for the IPPF and to “meeting” many of you at the upcoming Virtual Patient Education Conference.” –Kevin Mead
Kevin joins the IPPF from Spokane County United Way, where he was the VP of Resource Development. At United Way, Kevin developed fundraising and volunteerism initiatives. Before United Way, Kevin was the CEO of PrimeGlobal—a worldwide association of accounting firms— for 16 years. At PrimeGlobal, Kevin directed a remote staff of 16 on four continents organizing events, developing networking tools, and benchmarking member operations. He also merged three organizations into one and grew the organization 400%.
From 1994 to 2001, Kevin worked for the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA). While at the IIA, Kevin held a number of positions, including Manager of Conferences, Manager of Field Services, and Manager of Certification Development.
Kevin has presented at seminars and conferences throughout Europe, North America, and Asia on topics that include association management, risk, and auditing. He holds a bachelor’s degree in economics and master’s degrees in audit and international association management. Kevin is a Certified Association Executive (CAE), a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), and a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA).
In addition to his professional responsibilities, Kevin is a rugby referee and restores and rides old motorcycles.
Meet Kevin at the 2020 IPPF Virtual Patient Education Conference, Oct 2-4!
