Chief Operating Officer

Deepmala Mahla

Deepmala Mahla brings over 25 years of humanitarian and development leadership experience across Asia, Africa, Europe and the Middle East. Before joining SOS Children’s Villages, she served as Chief Humanitarian Officer and Global Humanitarian Director at CARE, where she also held the roles of Vice President of Humanitarian Affairs and Regional Director for Asia.

Throughout her career, she has held senior leadership positions with Mercy Corps, Marie Stopes International, Oxfam GB, UNICEF and other global organizations, directing complex operations and guiding teams in crisis settings such as Iraq, South Sudan and Yemen.

Known for her empathetic leadership, ability to navigate complex global federated structures and commitment to principled aid, Deepmala brings deep expertise in organizational transformation, large-scale operations and crisis response, organizational strategy, resource mobilization, media communications and international partnerships.

“Across my journey, I've met children who held onto hope when there was almost nothing left. Stepping into this role is my commitment to them – and to every child who needs care and connection. I look forward to co-leading with purpose and courage, translating this commitment into evidence-informed work that responds to children's realities and upholds rigorous standards of care and protection across all contexts.”

 

Governance