Salam Kanaan CARE Country Director in Jordan is a development and humanitarian professional with over 25 years of experience with international organizations, the UN, academic and research institutions in the Middle East. With academic background in Health and Education from the American University in Beirut, Ms. Kanaan has worked in several organizations including UNRWA, and the British Council in Amman, the World Bank, CARE and Save the Children in the occupied Palestinian territory (oPt). She joined CARE International in Jordan mid-2013.

Ms. Kanaan has extensive knowledge of strategizing, implementing, coordinating and leading development and emergency programs. Expertise includes leading and managing change, excellent understanding of key trends in international development, and the ability to create solutions for working in complex environments. Has extensive experience of building, leading and developing teams of senior staff with different backgrounds and expertise. The ability to represent the programs to government, donors, partner organizations and the media as well as full operational and financial management and planning, and resource mobilization including fundraising.

Ms. Kanaan is a board member of several organizations in the middle east including Defense for Children International – Palestine Section, and Al Mada for Arts-Based Community Development. She is also a member of the advisory committee for the USAID-funded project in Jordan focusing on women empowerment and gender mainstreaming. Her work focused on addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality, working in a comprehensive manner to serve individuals and families and facilitate lasting change.