How a business background helped set 2 NGO chiefs up for success

It’s always different being the person who has to execute a strategic plan versus someone who just helps develop it, said Rodney Ferguson, CEO of Winrock International, a nongovernmental organization that works with people in the United States and around the world to increase economic opportunity and sustain natural resources.

“When I was a consultant, my job was to generate the ideas and interesting tactics, but at the end of day you’re not responsible for executing on the part of your clients,” explained Ferguson, who spent 20 years as a communications and strategy consultant for nonprofits before stepping into the role of Winrock’s CEO in March 2013.

While CEO wasn’t a title that had previously appeared beside his name, Ferguson traces his ability to step successfully into the role to his background in communications and business strategy.

This story is forDevex Pro members

Unlock this story now with a 15-day free trial of Devex Pro.

With a Devex Pro subscription you'll get access to deeper analysis and exclusive insights from our reporters and analysts.

Start your free trial