At the American Task Force on Lebanon (ATFL), our mission is driven by a dedicated team that deeply understands both the complexities of U.S. policy and the vibrant heart of the Lebanese diaspora. In our new Staff Spotlight series, we are taking you behind the scenes to meet the people pushing our mission forward.
Today, we are thrilled to feature Philippe Nassif, the Chief Operating Officer.
Roots:
If you want to understand what drives Philippe Nassif, the Chief Operating Officer of the American Task Force on Lebanon (ATFL), you have to go back to 1996. During his first visit to Lebanon, he witnessed a resilient Beirut still in the throes of rebuilding after the devastating civil war. For Philippe, it wasn't just a trip; it was a turning point. That experience sparked a lifelong passion for international relations, conflict resolution, and U.S.-Lebanon policy that continues to define his career today.
A Global Upbringing with Deep Roots
Of Lebanese and Mexican heritage, Philippe grew up in a vibrant, trilingual household in New Orleans, Louisiana, and Houston, Texas, where English, Spanish, and Arabic filled the air. After attending high school in London, England, he returned to Texas for college, eventually earning an M.A. in International Law and Conflict Resolution. This cross-cultural upbringing laid the foundation for his nearly two decades of work in Washington, D.C. advocacy, U.S. foreign policy, and nonprofit leadership.
Finding a Home at ATFL
Before stepping into his role as COO, Philippe built an impressive resume advocating for global human rights and democracy, with senior roles at Amnesty International USA, The Cohen Group, In Defense of Christians, and the White House advance team. But he was always searching for something specific.
"I always wanted to support an organization that focused exclusively on U.S.-Lebanon relations and didn't bring the wider Middle East into their mandate," Philippe explains. "I became a member of ATFL, and then had the opportunity to join the staff!"
A Vision for Growth
As ATFL's stock continues to rise rapidly in Washington, D.C., Philippe is focused on capitalizing on that momentum. But his vision extends far beyond the Beltway. He is deeply committed to expanding the organization's reach across the United States. "The diaspora community craves our leadership and presence," he notes, underscoring his mission to connect Lebanese-Americans nationwide with ATFL's critical advocacy work.
Off the Clock
When he isn't walking the halls of Congress or strategizing ATFL's next big initiative, Philippe stays highly active. He is a lifelong swimmer and a dedicated Muay Thai (kickboxing) practitioner. And when it’s time to unwind? You can find him indulging his other great passion as a devout horror movie fan.
Stay tuned for more Staff Spotlights as we continue to highlight the dedicated team working behind the scenes at ATFL!