André Cox (born 28 July 1954) is a Swiss-British Salvation Army officer who served as the 20th General of The Salvation Army from 3 August 2013 to 3 August 2018. As the international leader of the Christian denomination and charity, he was responsible for leading its worldwide mission in over 125 countries.
Early Life and Ministry: André Cox was born in Harare, Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) to Salvation Army officer parents. He spent his early years in Rhodesia and then moved to Switzerland, where he was commissioned as a Salvation Army officer in 1977, along with his wife, Silvia Cox (née Lazzaro).
Career Progression: Throughout his career, General Cox held a variety of appointments across four continents, gaining extensive experience in both administrative and field leadership roles. His appointments included:
- Corps Officer (Switzerland)
- Divisional Youth Officer (Switzerland)
- Training College Principal (Zimbabwe)
- Territorial Headquarters appointments (Zimbabwe and Southern Africa)
- Chief Secretary (Finland and Estonia Territory)
- Territorial Commander (Southern Africa Territory)
- Territorial Commander (United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland Territory)
- International Secretary for Europe at International Headquarters (IHQ)
- Chief of the Staff (IHQ), the second-highest leadership position in The Salvation Army, a role he held prior to his election as General.
Generalship: André Cox was elected as the 20th General of The Salvation Army on 3 August 2013 by the High Council, which convened at the William Booth College in London. During his term, General Cox focused on several key areas, including:
- Mission Prioritization: Emphasizing the core mission of The Salvation Army to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human needs in His name without discrimination.
- Global Collaboration: Fostering stronger international cooperation and resource sharing among the various territories and commands.
- Social Justice: Advocating for issues such as anti-human trafficking, poverty alleviation, and gender equality within the organization's work.
- Organizational Review: Initiating and overseeing processes aimed at improving efficiency, transparency, and accountability across the global organization. He traveled extensively, visiting numerous territories and commands to encourage officers and soldiers and to gain first-hand understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by the Army in different contexts.
Retirement: General André Cox retired from active service on 3 August 2018, having served the maximum five-year term or until he reached the age of 65 (whichever came first), as per the Army's regulations. He was succeeded by Commissioner Brian Peddle.
Personal Life: General Cox is married to Commissioner Silvia Cox. They have two daughters, and several grandchildren.