Venkatesh Mannar, longtime ICCIDD director and current member of the Executive Committee and, for nearly 20 years, President of The Micronutrient Initiative, will step down as President of MI at the end of 2013, MI announced today. He will continue with MI in an advisory role. The MI announcement continues:

"Given his depth of knowledge and commitment, the MI family is fortunate that Venkatesh has agreed to stay on in an advisory capacity. So, although MI loses its pioneering President, we will continue to benefit from his expertise in a part-time capacity, as will others, as he explores new and exciting ways to contribute to a world free of hidden hunger.

"Venkatesh has had a remarkable career with MI, building the organization from a staff of just four within the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) when he joined in 1994 to an independent organization with hundreds of dedicated workers worldwide, with an annual budget of $60 million, and programs reaching at least 500 million people in 70 countries. His contribution to MI and to the global nutrition movement has made an incredible difference to millions.

"As a testament to this contribution, he has won praise and many awards over the years. Just a few months ago, Canada bestowed upon Venkatesh its highest civilian honor, making him an Officer of the Order of Canada. This is a well deserved recognition of his incredible achievements and a fitting tribute to his lifetime of service to MI."

Congratulations, Venkatesh, on a job superbly well done and continuing best wishes as you open a new chapter, doubtless to include continuing engagement in improving iodine nutrition throughout the world.