NextBillion - An Initiative of the William Davidson Institute at the University of Michigan

Monday, January 11, 2016

Pro Mujer announces the appointment of Ms. Maria Cavalcanti as President and CEO on January 11^th, 2016. Ms. Cavalcanti succeeds interim CEO Mark McMahon, who led the organization upon the retirement of Rosario Perez.

Ms. Cavalcanti brings over 25 years of professional experience to Pro Mujer. Most recently, Cavalcanti co-founded and became managing partner of FIRST Impact Investing, a private equity fund in Brazil. Prior to FIRST, Cavalcanti served as Chief Strategy Officer for Fundación Avina, where she spearheaded strategy and operational initiatives across the organization.  Earlier in her career, Ms. Cavalcanti worked at Dell Inc. where she was closely involved in the company’s expansion into Latin America, and was a management consultant with A. T. Kearney and TPI. Cavalcanti is recognized as a leading speaker on impact investing and financial inclusion in Latin America. She has authored multiple trade and academic articles and has served on international boards, including the Aspen Network of Development Entrepreneurs, PYME Capital Fund, and FUNDES.

Pro Mujer’s Board Chair, Gail Landis, commented: “We are thrilled that Maria will be Pro Mujer’s next CEO. She has the perfect combination of private and public sector experience, great skills, and the heart to lead Pro Mujer into the next phase of its life.  Most importantly, she is passionate about improving the lives of disadvantaged women across Latin America.”

“Women’s equality is a cornerstone of a healthy society and yet, the reality paints a different picture for many women in Latin America,” Cavalcanti said. “Women’s aspirations are too frequently stymied by poverty, abuse, and denial. I envision a world where women and men are afforded the very same opportunities, respect and value. I look forward to building on Pro Mujer’s legacy of enabling underserved women to realize their full potential.”