Philanthropist Julius Gaudio Named Co-Chair of International Crisis Group Board
WASHINGTON – The International Crisis Group, a leading conflict prevention organization, announced Tuesday the appointment of Julius Gaudio as Co-Chair of its Board of Directors. Gaudio, a long-time supporter of the organization and managing director of D.E. Shaw & Co., L.P., will share leadership of the board with Susana Malcorra, who has served as Co-Chair since 2021.
The appointment, effective immediately, comes at a critical time as global conflicts continue to escalate and displacement reaches levels unseen since World War II, according to the organization.
“In these tumultuous times, Crisis Group’s work to prevent and end conflict is more vital than ever,” Malcorra said in a statement. “Julius has been a steadfast champion of this mission, a trusted sounding board and a driving force behind our ambition.”
Frank Giustra, the outgoing Co-Chair, praised Gaudio’s “global outlook, decades of strategic leadership experience and sustained commitment to social impact.”
Gaudio expressed his honor at taking on the role, emphasizing the urgency of the Crisis Group’s mission. “At a time when conflicts seem harder to prevent or end…there is enormous appetite for Crisis Group’s deep analysis, pragmatic ideas and on-the-ground perspectives,” he said.
The International Crisis Group, comprised of 43 individuals from 27 countries, works to prevent, mitigate, or resolve deadly conflict through research, analysis, and advocacy. The organization currently has 150 staff covering 70 actual and potential conflicts worldwide. Its work has included contributions to the Colombian peace deal and efforts to avert violence in Kenya’s elections.
Gaudio’s background extends beyond finance. He serves as Chairman of the Board of DESRI, a renewable energy developer, and holds board positions with Artsy, an online art marketplace, and Nyota Sports Group Ltd. He is also CEO of the Gaudio Family Foundation, which supports various charitable causes. He joined the Crisis Group’s Board of Trustees in early 2024.
