Jimmy Mellado

President and Chief Executive Officer of Compassion International, Santiago “Jimmy” Mellado has a deep love and passion for the beauty and potential of local churches. Born in El Salvador and raised in seven different countries, Jimmy has experienced firsthand the powerful impact thriving local churches can have on their communities, especially in under-resourced environments. Compassion’s church-based approach to delivering a holistic child development program resonates with Jimmy at a deep level. Prior to joining Compassion in June of 2013, Jimmy was president of the Willow Creek Association (WCA). During his 20-year tenure leading the WCA, worldwide ministry income grew from $2 million to more than $20 million and membership grew from 860 churches to over 7,000 churches. Jimmy is married to Leanne and they have two daughters and a son.