CEPI Board appoints Ibrahim Abubakar as new Chief Executive Officer

The Board of CEPI, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, has appointed Professor Ibrahim Abubakar as the organisation’s next Chief Executive Officer following a rigorous open recruitment process. Professor Abubakar will join CEPI in March 2027 and Dr Richard Hatchett, who has led CEPI since its founding in 2017, will remain as CEO until the end of his full term in April 2027, ensuring a smooth transition.

Professor Abubakar brings a wealth of leadership experience across global public health and international organisations. He most recently served as Vice-Provost and Professor of Infectious Disease Epidemiology at University College London where he oversaw the University’s health strategy and a portfolio of research, innovation and clinical partnerships.

Hon Prof Jane Halton, Chair of the CEPI Board, said: “I am delighted to welcome Ibrahim as CEPI’s next Chief Executive Officer. His appointment reflects an outstanding track record of delivery and achievement from leading the Lancet Nigeria Commission to acting as an advisor to the Nigerian Presidential Taskforce through to his current role at UCL. He has a clear, personal commitment to the values that make CEPI unique: international collaboration and scientific excellence in service of equitable access for everyone, everywhere. The world cannot afford to be caught unprepared by the next pandemic, and under Ibrahim’s leadership I am confident CEPI will be ready.

“On behalf of the Board, I want to pay tribute to Richard for his leadership over the past decade. Richard will remain at the helm until April 2027, giving Ibrahim the benefit of his experience as CEPI enters this next chapter.”

Professor Ibrahim Abubakar, said: “CEPI holds a unique position in the world’s health ecosystem. Through its focus on innovation and equitable access, CEPI has made huge progress over the last decade. I believe there is an opportunity to build on that progress and make a transformational difference to how the world tackles epidemics and pandemics. I am truly honoured to be given the opportunity to take on this role and am looking forward to leading CEPI through its next chapter.”

Dr Richard Hatchett, outgoing CEO of CEPI, said: “I welcome and applaud the appointment of Professor Abubakar as my successor. Professor Abubakar will join CEPI after an extraordinary career as a clinical scientist and global public health leader, and he brings a wealth of experience as an administrator and a deep and demonstrated commitment to the cause of global equity. CEPI will benefit enormously from his drive and dedication as well as his fresh perspective and I look forward to working closely with him in the coming months to prepare the organisation for the next phase of our vital work.”

Professor Abubakar’s appointment comes as CEPI prepares to implement its 2027–2031 strategy, CEPI 3.0, which aims to transform the way the world confronts epidemic and pandemic threats – above all, by turning the ambition of the 100 Days Mission into operational reality.

Dr Hatchett will remain as CEO until April 2027. This extended handover period reflects the importance the Board places on continuity, stability and careful stewardship of CEPI’s mission. During this time Professor Abubakar will work closely with Dr Hatchett and the wider CEPI leadership team to ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities.