ATLANTA — Jim Cox will join Global Ministries as the executive director of the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR), effective Oct. 7, 2024. Cox returns to his UMCOR roots as he takes this role, having worked in various capacities for almost 10 years. As executive director, he will work with General Secretary Roland Fernandes to guide Global Ministries and UMCOR’s work in alleviating human suffering around the world. UMCOR works in more than 110 countries to provide humanitarian relief and recovery in response to natural and humanmade disasters.

Most recently, Jim has served as chief operating officer for Helen Keller International, a global public health organization that directs over $100 million in annual programming through 20 global field offices. Before Helen Keller, he served as executive vice president of health and emergency programs for Lutheran World Relief – IMA World Health (now CORUS). He served as chief operating officer for IMA World Health for nearly five years after serving as country director for IMA in Tanzania. When he was at UMCOR, he held a range of positions, including country director in the Republic of Georgia, executive director for international programs and executive director for Katrina Aid Today – UMCOR’s Hurricane Katrina response. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Jim back to the UMCOR family,” said Fernandes. “He returns at a crucial time as we face increasing global challenges from significant humanitarian crises, both natural and humanmade. His broad experience will be valuable for our ongoing U.S. and international relief and recovery efforts. He also brings a strong knowledge of The United Methodist Church’s structure and connection.” He added, “Jim’s appointment aligns perfectly with our strategy of enhancing Global Ministries and UMCOR’s global impact while maintaining a deep connection to our partners in local communities.”

Cox’s expertise spans emergency interventions, livelihoods and health initiatives, and he is experienced in working with vulnerable communities, major donors, agencies and private foundations.

Cox shared his enthusiasm for this new role: “Throughout my career, I have seen firsthand the impact of faith-based organizations globally, and I’m thrilled to have an opportunity to return to UMCOR. I look forward to working with staff, board members and volunteers around the world to advance Global Ministries and UMCOR’s important mission.”

Susan Clark is the chief communications officer for Global Ministries and UMCOR.

The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR)
UMCOR is the global humanitarian aid and disaster response arm of The United Methodist Church. A part of the General Board of Global Ministries, UMCOR works in more than 100 countries worldwide, including the United States. UMCOR’s mission, grounded in the teachings of Jesus, is to alleviate human suffering—whether caused by war, conflict or natural disaster—with open hearts and minds to all people.