José Ferrão

José Ferrão leads a team of professionals that provide leadership and support for United Way’s international network, which is engaged in nearly 1,800 communities across more than 40 countries and territories worldwide. He and his team facilitate the adaption of a set of Global Standards that make United Way organizations unique and successful wherever they are in the world.

Ferrão joined United Way Worldwide after serving as COO and SVP of Marketing at United Way of Massachusetts Bay and Merrimack Valley (Boston) for three years. Portuguese by birth, Ferrão grew up in Mozambique and South Africa and has a wealth of international work experiences spanning many decades. He has worked in South Africa, Europe and Middle East in senior management positions including serving as the president, Europe, Middle East and Africa for Carlson Marketing Worldwide.

In his role as executive vice president, international network, Ferrão is responsible for leading the development of the framework and strategies that support the United Way Worldwide Regional Offices in Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America and Africa. He is also the primary relationship manager, in collaboration with the regional vice presidents, that engages with the national and local partner organizations in ways that will drive their success in building better communities and advancing the common good.

Role at the Dialogue: Event Speaker