Welcoming Cooper Roberts: Waitt Institute's New Blue Economy Manager

Join us in welcoming Cooper Roberts to the Waitt Institute as a Blue Economy Manager. In this role, Cooper will support the Waitt Institute’s partner countries in developing and implementing sustainable Blue Economy strategies that promote equitable growth, ocean stewardship, and community wellbeing. 

He brings over a decade of experience managing international development and economic inclusion programs across Sub-Saharan Africa, Central America, and Asia, with a focus on building resilient, locally-led systems that balance environmental sustainability and social impact.

Before joining the Waitt Institute, Cooper served as Senior Program Manager at Opportunity International, where he led a global portfolio exceeding $20 million in grants advancing access to finance and education. He also managed USAID-funded resilience and livelihood initiatives with FHI 360, including serving as interim Chief of Party for a $15 million program in Northern Cameroon that strengthened local capacity and economic opportunity in conflict-affected regions.

Cooper’s work bridges sustainable economic development, climate resilience, and equity-driven program design. He has collaborated with governments, financial institutions, and community organizations to expand inclusive financial systems, empower women and youth entrepreneurs, and integrate environmental sustainability into economic planning.

He holds a Master’s degree in International Development from American University and a Bachelor’s degree in Human Rights from Bard College. Originally from the United States, Cooper is proficient in Spanish and French and has field experience in over 20 countries worldwide.