KAREN SCHMIDT
STEPS DOWN
After an incredible season of building, connection, and collaboration, I have discerned that my season as the Executive Director for the Freedom Business Alliance has come to an end. This decision was not made lightly, but with deep reflection and conviction. We’ve laid a powerful foundation, and I am excited to see the next leader build upon it and take the Freedom Business movement to new heights. I’m incredibly proud of our small but mighty team and deeply grateful to our members – whose work is creating lasting change.
The Board of Directors of Freedom Business Alliance announces the upcoming departure of our Executive Director, Karen Schmidt.
In her own words, “After an incredible season of building, connection, and collaboration, I have discerned that my season as the Executive Director for the Freedom Business Alliance has come to an end. This decision was not made lightly, but with deep reflection and conviction.
We’ve laid a powerful foundation, and I am genuinely to see the next leader build upon it and take the Freedom Business movement to new heights. I’m incredibly proud of our small but mighty team and deeply grateful to our members, whose work is creating lasting change.”
Karen has been a steadfast advocate for the global freedom business movement. Her leadership has led to vital partnerships with anti-trafficking and philanthropic allies, geographic expansion across Europe and Africa, and the development of practical tools that equip businesses to offer dignified employment to survivors of human trafficking.
Under Karen’s guidance, FBA grew into an organization ready to influence the mainstream business sector. Her collaboration with the Christian Economic Forum culminated in the forthcoming launch of WellWork, a training platform designed to multiply safe employment opportunities around the world. She also prioritized survivor leadership to advise FBA’s programming and launched a pro-bono legal support network to serve our members.
We are deeply grateful for her service and the legacy of purpose she leaves behind. As we begin the process of identifying new leadership, we invite you to join us in honoring Karen’s impact. The mission of FBA endures, and we remain committed to advancing economic solutions to human trafficking through the vibrant work of our members around the globe.
On behalf of the Board of Directors,
Lauren M. Pinkston
Chairperson
Freedom Business Alliance
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