Claude Panou is a seasoned global security and operations leader with over 17 years of cross- continental experience spanning Africa and the United States. He brings a powerful blend of field-tested security leadership, operational logistics expertise, and training acumen developed through high-impact roles in humanitarian, development, and private sector contexts.

 

Currently serving as Regional Security Director at Corus International, Claude leads comprehensive safety strategies across multiple high-risk regions. He is responsible for regional security assessments, crisis management, staff safety training, and the oversight of physical and operational security systems. He provides expert guidance to country offices on risk mitigation, ensuring that humanitarian operations continue safely amid political volatility and complex emergencies.

 

Claude was honoured with the prestigious President's Award from Corus International for his unwavering commitment to staff safety, most notably for his leadership during the volcanic eruption in Goma and his coordination of emergency protocols amid civil unrest and armed conflict in eastern DRC. His calm under pressure and ability to protect lives during such volatile events have made him a respected figure in international security circles.

 

He also played a transformative role in institutional development, successfully establishing and elevating the country-level security and safety unit into a major, efficient department recognized for its alignment with international security and operational standards. His strategic vision helped embed security as a core pillar of organizational resilience.

 

In addition to his work at Corus, Claude is Co-Owner of Veritas, a faith-driven advisory firm that empowers local organizations through expert support in operations, security, and safety systems. At Veritas, he brings his global experience to strengthen institutional capacity, mitigate risk, and promote resilience among community-based and faith-based organizations.

 

Before transitioning to international development, Claude built a strong foundation in logistics and operations management in the United States. He spent nearly a decade managing procurement, shipping, and warehousing for logistics and auto distribution firms in the United States. In these roles, he honed his ability to design and supervise efficient supply chains, enforce compliance standards, and lead diverse teams under pressure—skills that now serve him in navigating high-stakes humanitarian environments.

 

Claude has worked in some of the most dangerous operational settings including conflict zones in the Central African Republic, Niger, and the eastern DRC. He is known for designing and leading safety protocols in active war zones, coordinating complex evacuations, and ensuring the continuity of critical operations.