The Seattle International Foundation (SIF) is thrilled to welcome Enrique Roig as our new Director of Policy and Strategic Initiatives. In this role, Enrique will lead SIF’s engagement with the U.S. government, international community, and DC-based policy spaces. He will also direct the Central America in Washington, DC (CA in DC) program—an initiative established to promote human rights, democracy, and equitable development in Central America through policy analysis, strategic advocacy, and connection to U.S. policymakers.
This transition builds on the work and leadership of Eric L. Olson, who has held the role with dedication and vision. Eric has brought deep experience and a sharp policy lens to SIF’s efforts, providing strategic advice to partners and championing issues such as the rule of law, anti-corruption, and the strengthening of civil society, and has played a key role in connecting Central American voices to U.S. policy conversations. His contributions continue to inspire and inform our work.
Enrique brings over 25 years of experience in international development, democracy, and public policy. He has held senior leadership roles at the U.S. Department of State, where he most recently served as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Western Hemisphere and Africa in the Bureau for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor. His career also includes leading roles at USAID, Creative Associates, and Mercy Corps, where he has championed citizen security, human rights, and civil society development across Latin America and globally. Enrique has worked closely with partners in philanthropy, government, and civil society to design and implement strategic initiatives that respond to complex regional challenges.
Enrique joins SIF at a time of rising threats to democratic institutions and civic space in Central America. His decades of leadership in human rights, diplomacy, and foreign policy are critical to ensuring that the voices and experiences of Central American communities and leaders are heard in policy debates and translated into meaningful action.
“Enrique’s deep knowledge of U.S. foreign policy, unwavering commitment to social justice, and long-standing experience working with civil society and leaders across sectors in Central America make him an invaluable addition to our team,” said Adriana Beltrán, Executive Director of SIF. “At a time when democracy and human rights are under threat across the region, Enrique brings the strategic leadership and vision we need to strengthen our policy work and build a more just and equitable Central America.”
“It is an incredible honor to join the exceptional team at the Seattle International Foundation. For years, I’ve witnessed SIF’s unique ability to convene civic activists, human rights defenders, business leaders, philanthropists, and policymakers to confront the complex and urgent challenges facing Central America. At a time of rapidly shifting policies and priorities across the United States and the region, SIF’s mission has never been more critical. The road ahead demands bold leadership, deeper coordination, and unwavering commitment to justice and equity—and I am proud to be part of that journey,” said Enrique Roig, Director of Policy and Strategic Initiatives.
Please join us in giving Enrique a warm welcome to the SIF community!
