We are pleased to announce that Jamie Cooke will soon be joining Inclusion International as our new Executive Director.
Jamie brings more than 15 years of experience working on inclusion, social policy, civic participation, and systems change. He has led international networks, shaped national and global policy debates, and worked across sectors to push for real change.
As Executive Director, Jamie will lead Inclusion International’s staff team and work closely with our Council and members to carry out our shared strategy for inclusion.
He will oversee our organisation’s programmes and operations, support our advocacy and fundraising, and help strengthen relationships across our global network.
Jamie will work to make sure our work stays grounded in the experiences of people with intellectual disabilities and their families, and that it has impact.
I am honoured and excited to be joining Inclusion International at such a critical moment for our movement.
Across the world, people with intellectual disabilities and their families are still being left out, especially in countries in the global south. That’s why Inclusion International’s global community has never been more important.
Jamie Cooke, Inclusion International’s new Executive Director
Jamie leaves his role as Head of Policy and Communications at Enable Scotland.
In that role, he led work across disability policy and public engagement, making sure Enable’s values and impact were heard clearly by decision-makers and communities.
Jamie said:
“I am honoured and excited to be joining Inclusion International at such a critical moment for our movement. Across the world, people with intellectual disabilities and their families are still being left out, especially in countries in the global south. That’s why Inclusion International’s global community has never been more important.
I am looking forward to working with Officers, members and colleagues to build on the proud history of impact that we hold and to collaboratively move into the next stage of our journey.
I am here to listen and to learn from the creativity, values and energy which our members demonstrate on a daily basis, and to support the positive change that that can bring.”
Our President, Sue Swenson, said:
“Jamie brings new energy and deep commitment to our movement. His experience working across sectors and countries gives him the tools to support our network to grow and stay united in the face of new challenges.
He understands the importance of listening to self-advocates, families, and the organisations that represent us. We are excited to welcome him.”
Beyond Enable, Jamie worked on disability, inequality, economic policy, and social exclusion. He has helped connect local action with national and international reform. He has built partnerships across countries, advised governments, and brought people together to work toward common goals.
Jamie brings new energy and deep commitment to our movement. His experience working across sectors and countries gives him the tools to support our network to grow and stay united in the face of new challenges.
Sue Swenson, Inclusion International’s President
We are proud to welcome a leader who understands the importance of working together across countries and who listens to the real experiences of people with intellectual disabilities and their families.
Jamie is keen to meet and connect with members across our network, especially those in regions where inclusion is still underfunded and overlooked. You’ll have a chance to meet him in person at our World Congress in Sharjah.