Pros
Great staff in the origin countries and dedicated, knowledgeable colleagues with strong values. The people and robust work in-country were the reason I started to and continued to work there. Always were some NGO-style project management and funding challenges but that used to be counterbalanced by the work overall. Great work schedule flexibility, vacation benefits and work-life balance.
Cons
With new leadership over the past few years, the organizational culture shifted noticeably. Decision-making became more revenue-focused, with less emphasis on impact in origin countries or long-term sector change. Buzzwords > substance. Constructive disagreement appears discouraged, and frequent restructurings and layoffs—often framed as strategic—have disrupted day-to-day work and lowered morale as many strong people have left. Salary growth has been limited, with few opportunities for advancement.