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The Client

BRAC is the top global NGO of 2019, with the vision of a world free from all forms of exploitation and discrimination and where everyone has the opportunity to realise their potential. It acts as a catalyst, creating opportunities for people living in poverty. The organisation is specialised in piloting, perfecting, and scaling innovations to impact the lives of millions.

Key Objectives

Oxford HR worked with BRAC on the search for their Director of Programme Development. This role would be responsible for ensuring planning and programme design work, grant proposals and overall assessment of the programme development team. The Director of Programme Development was to lead the process of developing strong designs that are built on holistic development approaches and standards, so it was key that the individual be familiar with donor requirements and project management tools. The role required virtual working in a global environment with around 30% travel time.

Services

  • Executive Search
Village surrounded by forest

Oxford HR placed Audrey Ahwan as BRAC’s Director for Programme Development in 2019. Dirk Booy, Senior Director Programme Development, Resource Mobilization and Learning at BRAC said:

“She stood out mostly because she came across as both qualified professionally but also very practical in her approach […]  we knew she would be equally able to lead a complex multi country program development strategy as well as get along side a project level staff member and help design a new project.”

Of the Oxford HR process, both client and candidate were delighted with the process and outcome.

They delivered according to plan, supported the process from beginning to end and even provided follow up support to Audrey up to 6 months after hire. Oxford HR was patient with BRAC’s inexperience with the global market and hiring expat level staff.

Dirk BooySenior Director Programme Development, Resource Mobilization and Learning, BRAC
Audrey Ahwan smiling at camera

Looking ahead, Audrey says

“By the end of this year, we expect to have a fully staffed Programme Development, Resource Mobilization and Learning Unit.  BRAC is investing heavily in its growth post 2020 and there are exciting times ahead.”

I feel privileged to be working with an organization that is leading the way in innovative programme design. I wake up every morning with a sense of excitement of what the day will hold for me.

Audrey AhwanDirector of Programme Development, BRAC International