Key Objectives
Oxford HR’s Interim Team worked with WWF Cambodia in 2024 to find and place their Interim Deputy Country Director. The organisation was facing challenges following a management crisis and a prolonged, unsuccessful recruitment process for a Country Director, meaning urgent issues were not being addressed. This meant that team morale and functionality were suffering, with capacity issues affecting operations. Furthermore, there was a significant budget deficit, and WWF Cambodia was required to finalise a strategy development process, necessitating senior management guidance.
Services
- Executive Search
- Interim Placements
We placed Cily Keizer as WWF Cambodia’s Interim Deputy Country Director. With over fifteen years of leadership experience, including as a Country Director, and demonstrable experience in challenging environments that required change, Cily was well-equipped to address the issues being experienced at WWF Cambodia. Utilising her skills in change management, Cily was able to effectively engage staff, rebuild trust and guide the organisation through necessary transitions.
“My approach emphasised fostering an open and transparent work environment, enhancing team performance, ensuring project impact and meeting donor expectations. I also brought in significant experience in fundraising, operational and budgetary problem-solving skills, and strategy development expertise.”
Over five months, Cily helped restore functionality within the Country Management Team and improved its rapport with staff. Team and project performance improved, particularly in project delivery and budget expenditure. By implementing strict monitoring, reporting and a KPI action plan, she regained project delivery and donor trust. Whilst field capacity issues remained, the new leadership team was better positioned to address them going forwards. Engaging directly with staff in field locations, Cily worked to develop a plan for improving team performance and established a Workers Delegate team, enabling staff to participate in decision making.
“This transition from a hierarchical management style to a more inclusive approach boosted confidence and morale.”
Furthermore, fundraising efforts, supported by a professional Programme Development Coordinator, resulted in $200K in new projects signed within these five months, with additional projects in the pipeline. Though still reliant on smaller grants, efforts were underway to secure larger proposals and strengthen financial stability. The strategy development process was also progressing well, with active involvement of staff.
When asked about Oxford HR’s support throughout the recruitment process, Cily notes that we provided excellent support throughout both the recruitment process and the assignment.
”Finding an Interim Deputy Country Manager for WWF Cambodia was challenging due to tight timelines and the broad skillset and strong track record required. Success was only possible through the excellent collaboration between the WWF Asia hiring team and the Oxford HR interim management team.
Josje ReinartzAssociate Director Interim Management, Oxford HR
