Richard E. McEdward is one of the three Executive Officers of the Church (the other two being the President and the Treasurer). He serves as an advisor to the Office of Adventist Mission, the Office of Archives, Statistics, and Research, and the Institute of World Mission.
McEdward comes from a background as a pastor, church planter, and missionary. He was born in Seattle, Washington in the United States and also lived in Saudi Arabia during his youth. He holds a BA in Theology from Walla Walla University (formerly Walla Walla College), a Master of Divinity from Andrews University, and a Doctor of Intercultural Studies from Fuller Theological Seminary.
He spent many years with Global Mission and Adventist Mission in Sri Lanka, Philippines (Southern Asia-Pacific Division), and at the General Conference. He served as president of the Middle East and North Africa Union Mission for nine years until his election as General Conference Secretary in July 2025. He is passionate about sharing the biblical message with the unreached areas of the world.
McEdward is married to Marcia, who is a nurse. The couple has two grown children and one grandchild.