Yale School of Management (SOM) has announced the appointment of Togbe Afede XIV as the new Chairman of its Council of Global Advisors. The appointment, which recognizes his distinguished leadership and extensive experience, took effect on February 16, 2026.
The Yale SOM Council of Global Advisors is a group of influential leaders from around the world. Its primary purpose is to advise the Dean and the school’s senior leadership on strategies to enhance Yale SOM’s international presence and expand its global brand. The council plays a key part in connecting the school to worldwide perspectives and opportunities.
Members of the Council are chosen for their expertise and diverse professional backgrounds, and they come from a wide range of countries. Both outstanding alumni and non-alumni of Yale SOM are selected to serve. Their role is an active one; they are expected to attend meetings, engage with fellow advisors, and contribute their knowledge to support important school initiatives.
A New Role for a Respected Leader
Togbe Afede XIV’s appointment as Chairman is a result of his admirable leadership qualities, his impressive career, and his life experience. In this new role, he will lead the distinguished group of global advisors in their work with the school’s senior leadership.
As Chairman, his responsibilities will include helping to set the Council’s main priorities. He will work closely with Dean Kerwin Charles and other leaders at Yale SOM to guide how members engage with the school and its mission. He will also oversee the overall direction of the Council to ensure its work is focused and effective.
His insights are expected to be particularly valuable in several key areas. These include strengthening efforts to recruit talented students from various regions around the world.
He will also play a part in raising global awareness of Yale SOM’s mission and the impact it has. Furthermore, his guidance will help the school build deeper and more meaningful partnerships with organizations internationally.
Togbe Afede XIV has been appointed for an initial three-year term, with the possibility of renewal. In addition to his duties as Chairman of the Council of Global Advisors, he will also serve as an ex-officio member of the SOM Board of Advisors, further integrating his counsel into the school’s governance.
Togbe Afede XIV is the majority shareholder and Executive Board Chairman of Accra Hearts of Oak Sporting Club, a role he has held since 2011. A prominent Ghanaian entrepreneur and traditional ruler (Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State), he has overseen significant club restructuring, including the development of the Phobia House and plans for a new stadium.
Togbe Afede XIV is the Founder of Strategic African Securities (SAS), co-founder of Africa World Airlines, and Chairman of World Trade Centre Accra.