Reflecting on Robert’s Remarkable Journey and Lasting Impact
This month, we bid a heartfelt farewell to Robert MacTavish. After 13 groundbreaking years, Robert is moving on from the Primero Team. It is never easy to say goodbye to a colleague, but it is especially hard when that colleague has played such a pivotal role in shaping an initiative and building a global community.
From the moment Robert took up his assignment, he brought with him a spirit of dedication, innovation, and hustle. He was a man with a mission. Robert took Primero from concept to global scale, reaching more than 100 countries and millions of children. His work to build a strong, responsive, interagency product had left its mark on the sector. Whether tackling the toughest deployment challenges or converting the most resistant non-believers, Robert has always led by example. His professionalism and commitment set the bar for what could be achieved in digital for programmes. He leaves a legacy of “firsts”: UNICEF’s first programme-facing SaaS; the first Digital Public Good at scale in the Protection sector; the first fully self-sufficient digital initiative in UNICEF’s history; the list goes on.
Over the years, Robert has worn many hats and taken on countless projects that have left a lasting mark on the sector. He made major contributions to data protection and data responsibility, including co-founding the Responsible Data for Children initiative. He developed innovative business models, new partnership models and was a thought leader on interoperability; work that influenced many other initiatives. His ability to bring people together, mentor new talent, and drive new initiatives forward has made a profound difference. He was always quick to celebrate other’s wins and offer support to newcomers. Many of us have grown, both personally and professionally, thanks to his guidance and support. His knowledge and kindness have touched every corner of our community and advanced our work to support vulnerable children and families immeasurably.
