Marusya Lazo, CPA

Chief Financial Officer

Professional Overview
Marusya Lazo is an experienced finance executive with a proven track record of driving financial strategy, operational efficiency, and organizational growth. As the Chief Financial Officer at Human Rights Watch, she leverages her extensive expertise in international finance, internal auditing, and risk management to support the organization's mission and deliver sustainable impact.

Current Role
As the Chief Financial Officer at Human Rights Watch, Marusya Lazo is responsible for overseeing the organization's financial operations, risk management, and strategic planning. She works closely with the executive team to ensure the efficient allocation of resources, maintain financial compliance, and support the organization's long-term goals. Under her leadership, Human Rights Watch has implemented robust financial controls, streamlined operational processes, and strengthened its overall financial resilience.

Career Progression
Marusya Lazo's career is marked by progressive leadership roles in the finance and accounting industry. Prior to joining Human Rights Watch, she held various positions at Population Services International, including Vice President of Finance, Vice President of Finance and Controller, and Global Internal Audit Director. In these roles, she spearheaded the implementation of global financial systems, improved financial reporting and analysis, and led cross-functional teams to drive organizational efficiency and profitability.

Earlier in her career, Marusya spent several years at Deloitte LLP, both in the United States and the United Kingdom, where she served as a Senior Manager, specializing in internal audit and risk management. Her experience in the private sector has equipped her with a deep understanding of financial best practices, compliance, and strategic decision-making.

Academic Background
Marusya Lazo holds a Master of Arts (MA) degree in Modern History from the University of St Andrews, where she graduated with honors. Her academic background provides a strong foundation for her analytical and problem-solving skills, which she applies to her financial management responsibilities.

Areas of Expertise

• Financial strategy and planning

• International finance and operations

• Internal auditing and risk management

• Financial reporting and analysis

• Process improvement and operational efficiency

• Cross-functional team leadership and collaboration

Professional Impact
Throughout her career, Marusya Lazo has consistently demonstrated her ability to drive financial and operational excellence. At Population Services International, she played a key role in enhancing the organization's financial management capabilities, improving internal controls, and streamlining global reporting processes. Her contributions have enabled the organization to achieve greater financial stability and better support its mission-driven initiatives.

Conclusion
Marusya Lazo's extensive experience, strong financial acumen, and commitment to organizational success make her an invaluable asset to Human Rights Watch. As the Chief Financial Officer, she is poised to continue driving positive change, strengthening the organization's financial foundation, and contributing to its overall impact in the human rights sector.