Selam Hailu

Finance Director

Selam joined ERI as Finance Director in July 2023. Prior to joining ERI, Selam was Director of Operations and Finance for the Africa Region for the World Resources Institute where she was leading Finance, Accounting, Grants & Contract, Human Resources, IT and Administration in the Africa region covering 14 countries. Selam began her career as an Accountant at The Carter Center and later worked across progressive international organizations including the European Union and GIZ. Her role as Head of Finance and Resources for above 9 years in the British Council helped Selam evolve through systemic and strategic challenges and develop the capability to deliver valuable services across finance, compliance, grant and contract management.

Selam’s academic preparations include having a Masters in Accounting from the Loyola University Maryland, Master of Business Administration (MBA) concentrating on Finance from the Addis Ababa University, a Bachelors in Accounting from the Unity University and Bachelors in Management Information System (MIS) from the Unity University. She is a visionary, innovative, and resourceful professional with extensive experience in leading financial planning, grant management, and overall operations management including HR and administration. Selam has a passion to fix problems and be part of a solution in her every undertaking. Living in Alexandria, Virginia, Selam enjoys walking in her spare time.