Heritage Foundation Executive Vice President Kim R. Holmes was elected to serve as the vice chairman of the board for the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE), an associated organization of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

CIPE is a global NGO that was inspired by President Ronald Reagan and founded on the principle that economic freedom and political freedom are inextricably linked. To create and sustain a robust economy a strong and innovative private sector relies upon a flourishing democracy -- and democratic governance can only serve every citizen if it is underpinned by a thriving free market.  CIPE is currently undertaking 123 projects in more than 50 countries and works with local business leaders to expand opportunities for inclusive growth through market-led solutions, according to the organization’s website.

“It is a great honor to be named vice chairman of the board of directors at the Center for International Private Enterprise,” said Holmes. “I have had the privilege to be associated with CIPE for many years. I know in-depth the tremendous work that they do worldwide. CIPE makes a positive impact on people’s lives, by promoting democracy, freedom, and opportunity through good governance, anti-corruption, and private enterprise.”

Since 2018, Holmes has served as Heritage’s executive vice president. An expert in foreign affairs and international economic freedom, he was previously Heritage’s vice president for foreign and defense policy studies. He is a founding editor of the annual Index of Economic Freedom, which has become a signature Heritage publication.

Holmes served on the CIPE board from 1997-2002 and was invited to return in 2016. Holmes also serves on the CIPE Board Evaluation Committee, which provides an important accountability and transparency check on CIPE programs worldwide.