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Peter Singer
Special Advisor to the Director General at World Health Organization
Professional Background
Dr. Peter Singer is a distinguished figure in global health, currently serving as the Special Advisor to the Director General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus at the World Health Organization (WHO). In this pivotal role, he is integral to the organization's mission to transform WHO into an entity that prioritizes tangible impact at the country level. Dr. Singer has played a crucial part in shaping WHO’s strategic direction, having co-chaired the transition team that developed the ambitious "triple billion" target. His efforts are focused on not only strategy implementation but also enhancing WHO’s programme budget and results framework, overseeing delivery stock-takes, crafting investment cases, and spearheading innovative finance initiatives. As a passionate advocate for vaccine equity during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Singer continues to promote fair and equitable health solutions on a global scale.
Before his impactful tenure at WHO, Dr. Singer co-founded two innovative social impact organizations aimed at improving health outcomes globally. From 2008 to 2018, he served as the Chief Executive Officer of Grand Challenges Canada, where he was instrumental in raising CAN $450 million to support approximately 1,000 innovations across more than 90 countries. His leadership at Grand Challenges Canada has led to initiatives projected to save between 450,000 to 1.6 million lives and enhance the lives of an estimated 11 to 35 million people by the year 2030.
Dr. Singer's illustrious career also includes a decade-long position from 1996 to 2006 as the Sun Life Financial Chair and Director of the University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics. His academic contributions extend to his role as an Adjunct Professor of Medicine at the University of Toronto.
Education and Achievements
Dr. Singer is not only recognized for his leadership and advocacy but also for his extensive educational background and scholarly contributions. He studied the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School, where he honed his leadership and management skills further. Additionally, he earned his Master of Public Health (MPH) at Yale University, reinforcing his commitment to public health initiatives. His academic journey also includes a Fellowship in Bioethics/Medical Ethics from the University of Chicago and his Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Toronto, establishing a robust foundation for his career in health and ethics.
His accolades speak volumes about his contributions to the field. In 2007, he received the prestigious Michael Smith Prize as Canada’s Health Researcher of the Year in Population Health and Health Services. Further solidifying his impact, in 2011, he was appointed as an Officer of the Order of Canada, recognizing his significant contributions to health research, bioethics, and the health of people in developing countries. He is also a Fellow of several esteemed organizations, including the Royal Society of Canada, the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences, the U.S. National Academy of Medicine, and The Academy of Sciences for the Developing World (TWAS).
Dr. Singer’s research proficiency is further demonstrated by his authorship of over 300 articles and the acquisition of more than $50 million in research grants. His dedication to nurturing future generations is reflected in his mentorship of hundreds of students throughout his career, shaping the next wave of thought leaders in health and ethics.
Community Involvement
Beyond his professional roles, Dr. Singer has actively contributed to his community. He has served as the Board Chair of Branksome Hall, an internationally minded school dedicated to empowering girls through education. His commitment to educational initiatives showcases his belief in fostering young minds to promote health and ethics as fundamental aspects of society.
In summary, Dr. Peter Singer stands out as a transformative leader in global health, known for his unwavering commitment to improving lives around the world. His strategic foresight and hands-on approach to tackling complex health issues position him as a cornerstone in the ongoing evolution of global health policies. His blend of academic prowess, advocacy for ethical practices, and dedication to social impact underscores a career devoted to bettering human health on a global scale. Dr. Singer's contributions not only reflect his professional achievements but also a legacy of compassion and commitment to equitable health solutions that resonate deeply in the humanitarian landscape.
Highlights
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