June 30, 2023
Members of the World Customs Organization (WCO) elected Ian Saunders as the Organization's new Secretary General for a five-year term as of 1st January 2024.
The WCO Secretary General is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day activities of the WCO Secretariat. The election, which saw two candidates vying for this top position, took place during the annual WCO's Council Sessions in Brussels from 22 to 24 June 2023.
Incumbent Secretary General Dr. Kunio Mikuriya, whose term of office expires at the end of December 2023, welcomed Mr. Saunders' appointment and said, "I congratulate the winner on his election and I wish him well when he assumes his duties".
Ian Saunders has more than 20 years of Customs experience and 30 years' experience in international relations. He had been a member of the U.S. Government Senior Executive Service since 2008.