LONDON, UK — The Freedom Fund has appointed Havovi Wadia as its next Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 December 2026. Wadia, currently Managing Director of Programs at the Freedom Fund, will succeed Nick Grono and lead the organisation as it advances its 2030 Strategy to combat modern slavery and support survivors around the world.
A recognised leader in the fight against modern slavery, Wadia brings more than 15 years of senior leadership experience spanning frontline organisations, international philanthropy and global policy leadership. Her career has been defined by a commitment to ensuring that communities most affected by exploitation are at the centre of designing and delivering sustainable solutions.
Prior to joining the Freedom Fund, Wadia served as Chief Executive Officer of Vipla Foundation and held senior leadership positions at Magic Bus, where she led impact measurement and helped secure significant funding for organisational growth and development. She is also a Commissioner on the Global Commission on Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking, chaired by former UK Prime Minister Theresa May.
Since joining the Freedom Fund in 2021, Wadia has played a central role in shaping the organisation’s strategic direction and growth. As one of the architects of the Freedom Fund’s 2030 Strategy, she has led its implementation across the organisation’s global portfolio while strengthening support for frontline partners and communities most affected by exploitation.
As Managing Director of Programs, Wadia has led significant organisational changes to strengthen the Freedom Fund’s impact, directing more resources to frontline organisations, streamlining operations, and accelerating delivery against strategic priorities. Her leadership reflects a long-standing conviction that lasting progress against modern slavery depends on investing in the knowledge, leadership and agency of affected communities.
Molly Gochman, Chair of the Freedom Fund Board, said:
“Havovi is an outstanding leader. She has helped shape our strategy, strengthened our support for frontline partners, and built a culture of excellence and accountability across the organisation. She combines strategic vision with a deep understanding of the realities facing communities vulnerable to exploitation. The Board is confident that her leadership will enable the Freedom Fund to deepen its impact and continue delivering for the partners and communities we serve.”
Grace Forrest, Founder of Walk Free, said:
“Havovi Wadia is an exceptional leader in the human rights and anti-slavery space. Her experience and commitment to community-led, structural solutions means she is exceptionally well placed to lead The Freedom Fund into its next chapter. Having worked alongside her for many years, most recently on the Global Commission on Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking, I have seen firsthand her thoughtful and collaborative approach to leadership and her ability to forge effective partnerships that I believe will only strengthen the growth and impact of The Freedom Fund’s work and impact.”
Nick Grono, outgoing Chief Executive Officer, said:
“It has been an immense privilege to work alongside Havovi over the past four years. She is a hugely impressive leader with deep personal knowledge of the drivers of extreme exploitation. She brings a rare ability to connect the perspectives of frontline organisations, affected communities, donors and policymakers in pursuit of lasting change. I am confident she will lead the Freedom Fund to even greater impact in the years ahead.”
Havovi Wadia said:
“The most effective solutions to modern slavery are shaped and led by the people and organisations closest to the challenge. Throughout my career, I have seen the power of frontline leadership and community-led change to create lasting impact.
“The Freedom Fund enters this next phase from a position of strength, with an ambitious strategy, exceptional partners and a growing global community committed to ending modern slavery. I look forward to deepening those partnerships, expanding our impact, and working alongside our teams and partners to help build a future free from exploitation.”
Wadia will work closely with Grono over the coming months to ensure a smooth leadership transition before assuming the role on 1 December 2026.
About Havovi Wadia
Havovi Wadia joined the Freedom Fund in 2021 as Managing Director of Programs. She has led the implementation of the organisation’s 2030 Strategy and overseen programmes across the Freedom Fund’s global portfolio. Prior to joining the Freedom Fund, she served as CEO of Vipla Foundation and held senior leadership roles at Magic Bus. Her work has focused on strengthening frontline organisations, advancing survivor-centred approaches, and building sustainable systems for long-term social change.
