Pros
- Some people are competent and qualified and are genuinely driven by the mission statement – the passion is palpable and it is positively inspirational to be in their teams. The learning can be immense but this is contingent on a lottery system of which team/ manager you get. - HIV/ AIDS and malaria programs are particularly impactful – the results are measurable and the work is truly life saving. Some strategic projects are great too - projects like working with cold chain equipment manufactures to lower vaccine prices allow you to correct market failures via a strategic approach in real time – this is incredibly impactful. This is why we joined the org in the first place. - Office culture is collegial, fun and easy going - Good for a short term stint, not sure about a long term career here.
Cons
- Need a structured and objective review process for feedback and promotions (and compensation – which is below market rate). - Nepotism is rampant. People have brought in their brothers and friends who are grossly underqualified with no work ex, accomplishments or skills! - Nepotistic influx of people who were fired from their previous consulting job for incompetence/ some sort of an inappropriate relationship with a manager. Apparently they were also coming to work once a week and still not doing any work. Keep charity out of hiring decisions - peer group is critical! - Constant (unfair) badgering in the media; org is now (unfairly) perceived as a fake NGO fronting fake agendas. With the closure of CGI and drop in donations…future is not as certain. CHAI is their pet project though, so impact should be the least. - Need more qualified public health professionals in India and not just business people.