Room to Read, a leading global nonprofit organization focused on literacy and girls’ education, today announced that Laurie McMahon has been appointed Chief Development and Communications Officer. McMahon will play a key role in developing and achieving Room to Read’s strategic plan, resource development and brand objectives. She will be responsible for executing a comprehensive and diversified development, marketing and communications plan to provide Room to Read with the continued resources and brand recognition it needs to further its mission on a global scale.

With a track record of success in international philanthropy and development, McMahon has spent the past four years holding roles as Room to Read’s North America Development Director and APAC Development Director, overseeing the organization’s development activities in those regions. Her leadership and capacity for strategic thinking at a global level have dually strengthened Room to Read’s philanthropic base and brought consistent revenue growth to the North American and Asia Pacific markets.

“The past four years at Room to Read have been a privilege, and I am thrilled at the chance to expand the work we’re doing in development, marketing and communications globally,” said McMahon. “I hope to build on our history of success and measurable impact to reach the widest possible audience, engaging and inspiring our stakeholders and future generations as they support Room to Read’s mission of world change through educated children.”

“I’ve worked closely with Laurie since she joined Room to Read and have been continually impressed by her approach to engaging our investors and volunteers,” said Room to Read’s CEO, Geetha Murali. “Her ability to understand today’s changing landscape and inspire our investors and volunteers to support our work has driven the expansion of our resource development efforts, allowing us to implement new and creative approaches to engage our growing network of supporters. I look forward to Laurie’s continued contributions as the head of our Development and Communications department.”

McMahon brings demonstrated experience in global philanthropy and senior leadership; however, her passion for people truly sets her apart. Before joining Room to Read, she managed fundraising at the British Asian Trust (one of HRH Prince Charles’ leading charities with a focus on alleviating poverty in South Asia) and worked in development for her alma mater, University College London. McMahon received her B.A. in Geography from University College London and M.S. in Development Studies from Birkbeck College.