Esther Waters-Crane

With more than 18 years at the intersection of global strategy, impact measurement, and organizational transformation, Esther Waters-Crane is a senior leader known for shaping strategy and driving change across complex international environments. She has led major reforms in humanitarian and development systems, advising executive leadership and collaborating with governments, donors and communities to deliver measurable, scalable results. Her portfolio spans multi-million-dollar health, nutrition, social and economic development programmes in fragile contexts, major operating-model reviews, and strategic initiatives that support millions of people worldwide.

Esther brings a dynamic, data-driven approach to strategic planning and performance, combining analytical rigor with deep stakeholder engagement. Across senior roles with UNHCR, UNICEF, OCHA, UNDP, and UN Peacekeeping, she has led complex strategy development processes, strengthened institutional performance frameworks, built innovative cross-sector partnerships, and mobilized significant investment. A trusted advisor to the C-suite, Esther enables organizations to clarify their purpose and vision, identify and prioritize the activities that deliver the greatest impact, and align resources, structures, and delivery models accordingly. Her work supports institutions to adapt to evolving global challenges, enhance efficiency and accountability, and maximize sustainable social impact for communities and partners.

Esther is a mum of two tweenagers, an avid triathlete, and a professional strength & fitness coach to women over 40, accredited by the UK-based Menopause Movement group.