West Africa Vocational Education (WAVE) has named Dr. Ifeanyi Perry as its new Chief Executive Officer, following more than a year of serving as Acting CEO.
According to a statement from the organisation, the Board of Directors approved Dr. Perry’s appointment with immediate effect, citing her strategic leadership, deep sector expertise, and commitment to scaling WAVE’s impact. Her elevation underscores WAVE’s resolve to strengthen its operational model and drive sustainable growth.
Dr. Perry began her journey at WAVE in a senior leadership role, overseeing programme quality, employer partnerships, and impact measurement systems. During her acting tenure, she led significant initiatives: she refined WAVE’s training models for greater relevance, improved program effectiveness, and forged key partnerships to bolster the organisation’s capacity to deliver long-term impact.
Under her stewardship, WAVE secured multi-year funding from international and regional partners, reinforcing its capacity to deliver market-aligned vocational training. She also helped elevate WAVE’s profile in policy and development circles, representing the organisation at major convenings, including the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa Summit.
A scholar, researcher, and practitioner, Dr. Perry holds a PhD in Criminology and Penology, an MA in Criminology and Criminal Justice, and a BSc in Sociology. She is equally well-versed in institutional leadership, having worked in non-profit organisations, policy research institutions, and academic settings.
In a comment, Dr. Perry said:
“I am honoured to take on this role at a time when young people need not just skills, but sustained opportunity. WAVE has built a strong foundation; now we must deepen our reach, strengthen our systems, and partner strategically to scale meaningful employment outcomes.”
WAVE’s Board expressed confidence that her appointment would enhance the organisation’s trajectory. According to the Board Chair, Shirley Somuah:
“Dr. Perry’s leadership aligns with WAVE’s long-term vision. She has the experience, the clarity, and the strategic mindset to guide WAVE into its next chapter of growth and impact.”
Since its founding in 2013, WAVE has trained more than 80,000 young people in employability and technical skills training programmes. Through its academies and partnerships, it continues to build a pipeline of work-ready youth across the region.
