Suellen Rodrigues is a global public health and policy leader with over 22 years of experience spanning public health systems, multinational organizations, and government-facing initiatives across Latin America. As Executive Director of Public Policy & Governance at Fountain of Hope Missions (DBA Ekole Foundation), she leads strategic efforts to strengthen governance frameworks, inform public policy, and expand equitable access to care through evidence-based approaches. Suellen brings deep expertise in translating scientific evidence into actionable policy and health system strategies. Her career includes senior leadership roles where she has guided complex, multi-country initiatives, supporting governments, civil society, and institutional stakeholders in making informed, data-driven decisions—particularly in resource-constrained and politically sensitive environments. She currently serves as Latin America Regional Director for Research Management & Health Systems at MSD (Merck & Co.), where she oversees regional strategy for evidence generation and health system engagement. Her work integrates real-world evidence, policy development, and cross-sector collaboration to address critical healthcare challenges and improve system performance.

A recognized leader in governance, risk, and compliance, Suellen has extensive board-level experience, contributing to institutional strengthening, accountability, and long-term sustainability within nonprofit organizations. Her governance roles include leadership positions with Instituto Pactuá, Plan International Brasil, and Instituto Carambaia.

Suellen is also a recognized member of the Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) global network, an initiative aligned with the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent, highlighting excellence and leadership within the global African diaspora.

Suellen holds a Master’s degree in International Public Policy from Queen Mary University of London and an MBA in Government Relations and Public Policy from Fundação Getúlio Vargas. She is also a certified clinical research professional and has completed executive education programs at leading global institutions including Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, UCLA Anderson, and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine.

A multilingual professional fluent in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, with working knowledge of French, Suellen is deeply committed to advancing inclusive, evidence-informed public policy and strengthening health systems globally.