Ankerstein assumes the role of national leader for the United Nations Refugee Agency
Mark Ankerstein, a seasoned professional with a diverse background in both the for-profit and non-profit sectors, is set to take up the role of National Director of the UN Refugee Assistance in July 2025.
Ankerstein's extensive career in humanitarian aid, international development, and refugee support spans over twelve years. He has worked with various international organisations, specialising in refugee protection, crisis response, and policy advocacy. His experience includes leadership roles in NGO operations in conflict zones, coordination of refugee resettlement programs, and engaging with governments and UN agencies to improve refugee assistance frameworks.
Before his tenure at the UN, Ankerstein had a successful career in the marketing communications industry. He served as CEO at BBDO and was a co-owner of Trio-Group & Kölner. Since then, he has held leadership positions at Welthungerhilfe, Opportunity International, and the Christoffel Blindenmission. Most recently, he has been working as an independent consultant, lecturer, and honorary supervisor at CBM East- and South Africa.
Ankerstein will succeed Peter Ruhenstroth-Bauer in this role and will report to the board of the UN Refugee Assistance, which includes chairperson Ricarda Brandts. The board will serve as the entity to which Ankerstein will report.
In his new role, Ankerstein will oversee the organisation's efforts to provide aid and support to refugees worldwide. With his wealth of experience and expertise, he is poised to make a significant impact in the field of refugee assistance.
For more detailed information about Ankerstein's previous roles and educational background, please let us know! We look forward to following his journey as he takes on this important role.
In his career, Mark Ankerstein demonstrated leadership in both business and the humanitarian sector, having served as CEO at BBDO and co-owner of Trio-Group & Kölner in the marketing communications industry, and holding leadership positions in NGOs such as Welthungerhilfe, Opportunity International, and the Christoffel Blindenmission. As the National Director of UN Refugee Assistance, he will incorporate his finance and leadership skills to oversee the organization's efforts in providing aid and support to refugees worldwide.
