Key facts
- Carl Skau has assumed the role of acting executive director of the UN World Food Programme.
- Skau succeeds Cindy McCain in the interim leadership position.
- He will retain his existing roles as WFP deputy executive director and chief operating officer.
- The WFP is traditionally led by an American.
- The United States is seeking to pick a permanent successor to McCain.
Swedish diplomat Carl Skau has assumed the role of acting executive director of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). He steps into this interim position following the resignation of Cindy McCain for health reasons. Skau will lead the organization on an interim basis until a new executive director is appointed, while continuing to serve as WFP's deputy executive director and chief operating officer. The WFP is traditionally led by an American, and the United States has stated its intention to select a permanent successor.