Shahnaz Kianian: Remembering Manou Assadi

I first met Manou in September 1978 when I was posted to New York as a junior programme officer in Programme Division. He was then the Deputy Director of PD and a strong advocate of UNICEF’s work in the field to improve well being of children and women. Until his retirement in 1990, I worked with him directly or indirectly in one capacity or other. Over the years I also developed a friendship with him and Farideh, his wonderful wife. We had many talks about our common Iranian heritage and what was happening back in our country.

Manou was larger than life! His presence was felt wherever he was. He was charismatic and had a lively personality that captured one’s attention immediately.

He was an inspirational and natural leader. His experiences working in Iran, Nigeria and Pakistan before coming to New York bestowed upon him the wisdom and pragmatism required to lead a large team effectively. His tenures as Director of Division of Programme Field Services and then Division of Personnel were outstanding.

He was passionate about UNICEF’s mission and gave the best of himself to fulfill it. He used to say that as UNICEF we are a “ handful of people with handful of money,” but with a sense of mission, unparalleled commitment and sound programme strategies we can make a difference in children’s and women’s lives.

He was a professional par excellence. He had mastery of his work, was smart and quick. He was a no nonsense person who could size up situations and people fast and would cut through nonsense. He ran the two divisions he led like a Swiss clock.

He had a high level of integrity and strove for what was just and equitable.

He was courageous and outspoken. He fought for what he believed in, he defended the rights of staff and had no fear in standing up against his seniors when the situation warranted it.

He was compassionate and caring. He had a big heart and helped colleagues, staff and friends in many ways. He was one of the most popular Directors that I knew in my UNICEF career.

He was a mentor to many of us. He shared the lessons he had learnt and was a good listener who helped one arrive at the right decision and course of action.

He was a pillar of strength and support. One could count on his wisdom, pragmatism and sound advice. One could also count on what he said as he would keep his words.

He was an early advocate of work-life balance at UNICEF. I remember of him saying to many of us “love thyself”. I always admired him for his ability to switch off most of the time when he left the office.

He was fun-loving and enjoyed putting his culinary skills to work. He and his wife Farideh were gracious hosts welcoming colleagues of many ranks to their home.

Manou loved Iran and its people. He was a patriot in the best sense of the word. In retirement he visited Iran regularly to spend time with family and friends.

The world is a better place because Manou was a part of it. I am ever so grateful to have known him.

May his soul rest in eternal peace in the country in which he was born and passed away.

Shahnaz Kianian-Firouzgar

28 October 2019