Robert Mardini is the new Director general of the University Hospital of Geneva

The Geneva cantonal government has today confirmed the appointment of Robert Mardini as Director general of the University Hospital of Geneva (HUG) as of September 1st 2024. This confirmation follows his appointment by the HUG Board of directors on March 25th 2024. Robert Mardini held the position of Director general of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

24th April 2024, Geneva - “We are very pleased to welcome Robert Mardini to the leadership of the University Hospital of Geneva (HUG),” stated Alain-Dominique Mauris, president of the Board of directors. “At every step of the recruitment process, he demonstrated both solid experience in the management of large-scale institutions and undeniable leadership. These are qualities crucial to the development of the HUG of the future at the service of its patients. We are equally certain that he will have the ability to create an inclusive environment, both mindful of the staff and efficient in our response to the healthcare needs of the population.”

Placing access to healthcare and its protection at the heart of his work at ICRC

Before his appointment at HUG, Robert Mardini was Director general of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). As leader of the ICRC from March 2020 to March 2024, he oversaw its humanitarian operations as conducted by 20,000 staff in over 100 countries with a budget of approximately USD 2 billion.

Over the entire course of his career at the ICRC, through both action and advocacy, Robert Mardini has tirelessly championed the imperative to ensure healthcare continuity for communities affected by armed conflict and natural disasters. He has worked, both at operational and diplomatic levels, against the violence that targets healthcare structures and services, and the discrimination in access to care.

He also promoted the development of the ICRC’s activities in the fields of mental health and psychosocial support, thereby expanding the existing array of healthcare services offered by the Geneva-based institution which encompasses: first aid and emergency prehospital care, primary healthcare, hospital care, healthcare in detention and physical rehabilitation.

Throughout his tenure, Robert Mardini was a strong advocate within the ICRC for diversity, equity and inclusion, for partnerships, and for innovation, placing a strong emphasis on digital transformation at a time in history when armed conflicts are equally unfolding online and in cyberspace.

Ensuring robust institutional management

Alain-Dominique Mauris expressed his thanks to all the candidates for their commitment to the HUG’s missions and to all those who took part in the recruitment process. “We are convinced that Robert Mardini will have the ability to successfully meet upcoming challenges and ensure robust institutional management,” he concluded. Deputy director general Alain Kolly will serve as Acting director general until Robert Mardini takes up his role.

To find out more: Biography of Robert Mardini

photo credit: UN Today