Ulrike Kelm is IWRA’s Deputy Executive Director, where she supports the Executive Director and the Board iin the strategic direction and effective coordination of the Association’s global programmes, communications, membership and partnerships, and governance processes. She joined IWRA as Communications Director in 2025 before assuming her current role.

Ulrike is an international relations and communications professional with over 20 years of experience advising and supporting global organisations in the international water sector, bridging science, policy and practice. Prior to joining IWRA, she held senior communications roles with United Nations entities, governmental institutions and international membership-based organisations, leading strategic communications, advocacy and stakeholder engagement initiatives.

A German national, Ulrike has lived and worked across Latin America, Europe and the MENA region. She holds Master’s degrees in International Relations and Communications Management.