Hiwotie Simachew Terefe is a passionate and values-driven professional with extensive experience in both the humanitarian and development sectors. He is renowned for his transformative leadership and innovative approach, consistently delivering culturally sensitive programs and strategies. As the Deputy Country Director at Plan International Ethiopia, Hiwotie provides strategic leadership and a long-term vision for the organisation's program strategy, possessing a proven track record in managing organisational change processes and developing long-term country strategies within complex and protracted operational contexts. This demonstrates his ability to navigate challenging environments effectively. With over 15 years of experience in senior leadership roles, Hiwotie is a resilient, seasoned, and creative leader recognised for his strong analytical and conceptual skills. He possesses an excellent understanding of political, economic, and social dynamics.

Hiwotie is a committed leader and team player with strong skills in managing operations, including finance, human resources, supply chain, and security. Hiwotie's tenure as Interim Country Director and Deputy Country Director for Plan International Sudan right after the conflict highlights his strategic leadership in highly complex operational landscapes. Following the Sudan conflict, he played a pivotal role in adapting the country program from a development-oriented to a humanitarian-focused approach.

In addition, he serves as lead for the humanitarian group for International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGO) Group and is represented in the ICCG and actively involved in humanitarian advocacy, including the Safe Schools Declaration. Hiwotie represents the collective voice of international agencies operating in the region, advocating for effective coordination and grounded, context-sensitive humanitarian action.