The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Neel Broker as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO).

Overseeing TNC’s global operations, including the Finance, Talent & Human Resources, Data & Technology, and Investment teams, Neel will work to ensure the organization is coordinating its strategy and execution effectively around the world to meet its ambitious goals in the coming years and beyond.

“Neel’s strong track record as a strategic, inclusive, globally minded leader will serve him well in this role, as will his past experience at a highly dispersed, mission-driven organization,” comments Jennifer Morris, CEO of The Nature Conservancy. “We are excited and fortunate to have him join our executive leadership team.”

Neel was previously CEO of Laureate Education’s Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific (EMEAA) segment, which grew to become the largest higher education operation outside the Americas. He spent 12 years at Laureate Education in a variety of roles including Global Head of Strategy and Corporate Development, and as CEO of India. Neel began his career in banking, private equity, and consulting at firms including McKinsey and Merrill Lynch, but later decided to pursue his passion to invest in, grow and lead social-impact enterprises.

“At this critical moment for the environment and our collective well-being, it is an honor to join The Nature Conservancy as Chief Operating Officer,” says Neel. “I am inspired and energized by TNC’s global impact, well-respected science, and conservation solutions. It is the passion, expertise and mission-orientation of the many TNC colleagues I’ve met so far that convinced me to take on this new role to help guide TNC’s global operations, contributing to the organization’s bright future protecting the planet.”

Neel’s love for the outdoors and wildlife grew over the many summers he spent trekking in the Himalayas with family and friends. He has lived in and worked across Asia, Europe and the Americas. Growing up in India, Neel earned an integrated bachelor’s and master’s degree from the Birla Institute of Technology & Science, (BITS Pilani), and then graduated with an MBA from The Wharton School. He lives in the Washington, DC area with his wife and their 2 children.