For the past 20 years, M. Caillaux has worked with UNICEF, most recently as Secretary of the Executive Board based in New York. He served in the field for most of that period, first in Laos and then in Ghana where he was one of UNICEF's primary spokespersons in its challenge to the conventional wisdom of the time about Structural Adjustment policies. During his time with the UNICEF Dakar Area Office he directed the global effort in favour of universal child immunization in the sub-region and was a strong advocate for the Convention on the Rights of the Child. M. Caillaux also helped organize the first ever World Summit for Children held in September 1990 and was involved in the initial implementation of the Summit plan of action.

A French citizen, Mr. Caillaux holds several advanced degrees in economics and development and has been a Senior Adviser for the International Fund for Agricultural Development, as well as a Commercial Attaché for the French Ministry of Finance in Ethiopia. CARE International Chairperson Lydia Marshall said "CARE was particularly impressed with the strong link between CARE's vision of a world without poverty and the sense of passion and commitment M. Caillaux has shown for the world's poorest children, throughout his career."

During his initial visit to the CARE International Secretariat in Brussels, M. Caillaux commented "I've been greatly impressed by the outstanding work of CARE and its talented and dedicated staff throughout the world. I feel particularly honoured and challenged to join the people and the work of CARE at such a crucial moment in the growth of a worldwide movement dedicated to the end of poverty."

The appointment will be effective January 1, 2003. M. Caillaux will replace current Secretary-General Mr. Guy Tousignant of Canada who is retiring at the end of 2002.

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