Holt International Appoints Derek Parker as First Chief Operating Officer

Derek brings extensive executive leadership experience as well as lived experience as a Holt adoptee.

Holt International Children’s Services is pleased to announce the appointment of Derek Parker as the organization’s first Chief Operating Officer (COO).

The creation of this new executive leadership role reflects Holt’s commitment to strengthening operations and advancing its future strategies. As COO, Parker will provide oversight of Holt’s domestic and international programs, procurement and organizational performance. This structure allows President and CEO Dan Smith to devote more time to external leadership, global partnerships and advocacy, while Parker ensures alignment and accountability across Holt’s operations.

“Adding the COO role is a strategic step for Holt,” said Dan Smith, Holt’s president and CEO. “Derek brings not only extensive executive leadership experience but also his lived experience as a Holt adoptee and his knowledge as a former board chair. This combination of professional expertise and personal connection to Holt’s mission makes him uniquely suited to help lead us into the future.”

Parker brings over 20 years of senior management experience in both nonprofit and corporate sectors. Most recently, Parker served as the COO of the Parent Institute for Quality Education. Parker’s career also includes leadership roles such as President of Kurmac Inc. and Vice President and District Manager at U.S. Bank, where Parker oversaw 21 branches and managed 150 employees.

In addition to his professional background, Parker has a deep personal connection to Holt. As a Holt adoptee and a longtime board member, he has served as board chair and worked closely with the leadership team to guide the organization’s governance. Transitioning from governance to operations, Parker will now contribute his expertise from within the executive team.

“I am honored to step into this new role at Holt,” said Parker. “As a Holt adoptee and a leader committed to the children we serve around the world, I believe in Holt’s mission deeply. I look forward to working with Dan, the board and the entire team to strengthen Holt’s operations and expand its impact for children and families around the world.”

Parker will remain based in Southern California while traveling as required to Holt’s Eugene, Oregon, headquarters and other U.S. and international locations. He will join staff October 13.