May 15, 2025, St. Louis, MO — The World Affairs Council of St. Louis is pleased to announce the appointment of Kimberley Vuitel as Executive Director, effective Monday, May 12, 2025. A seasoned global business leader and nonprofit executive, Vuitel brings more than two decades of experience in international trade, cross-border collaboration, and mission-driven program development. The Council also announced the departure of Program Director Lila Singley, who has accepted a new professional opportunity.
Founded in 1948, the World Affairs Council of St. Louis is a not-for-profit, non-partisan organization that advances citizen diplomacy and global connections through events, programs, and international exchanges. It is a proud member of the World Affairs Councils of America and Global Ties U.S., the nation’s largest and most established network dedicated to cultural diplomacy.
“We are thrilled to welcome Kimberley to the World Affairs Council STL,” said Jeff Morris, Co-President of the Board of Directors and Vice President, International Supply Chain at Bunzl Distribution North America. “Her experience in inclusive economic growth, export readiness, and global partnership development, combined with her corporate background navigating complex international markets, makes her uniquely positioned to lead the Council into its next chapter.”
In addition to her new role, Vuitel will continue to serve as Director of Trade Services at the World Trade Center Northern California, where she leads export training and global business programs. Her work there has supported over 200 businesses and generated more than $120 million in international revenue.
Earlier in her career, Vuitel held senior leadership positions at Victorinox Swiss Army and TRG Group, managing global product portfolios, international sales strategy, and market expansion across 30+ countries.
Vuitel is also deeply committed to community service. She currently serves on the board of Home Sweet Home STL and previously chaired the Board of Directors for CASA of St. Louis, advocating for children in the foster care system.
She holds an MBA in marketing and finance from Northeastern University and a bachelor’s degree in marketing and management from Towson University. This summer, she will bring her global expertise to the classroom as an instructor of International Trade and Globalization at Washington University in St. Louis.
ABOUT THE WORLD AFFAIRS COUNCIL OF ST. LOUIS
The World Affairs Council of St. Louis advances citizen diplomacy and global connections through programs, events, and interpersonal exchanges, connecting international and regional leaders year-
round. The International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, is our flagship initiative. As the exclusive partner for Eastern Missouri and Southwestern Illinois, we invite and host foreign leaders from diverse fields – including government, business, education, media, and civil society – to participate in professional and cultural exchanges. Through these connections, IVLP establishes long-lasting relationships and facilitates cooperation between St. Louis and other nations on key economic and global issues. To learn more about the World Affairs Council of St. Louis, visit www.worldaffairsstl.org.
Media Contact: Robyn Frankel, 314.863.3373
