Why chief of party shouldn't be a desk job

Amjad Zaim, chief of party for Chemonics in Palestine, has learned that the willingness to take risks is paramount to success. “I started three companies, I bankrupted two of them ... the third was actually successful,” he told Devex reporter Jeff Tyson. As Zaim transitioned from his work as a college professor in the early stages of his career to being an entrepreneur, and then into global development work, he remained open to learning — something he also identified as crucial to career growth. “Leadership is about acquiring new skill sets so you can continue to discover potential from within,” he said. Now, as the leader of the Palestinian Health Care Reform and Development Program, Zaim wants to right the misconception that a chief of party sits behind a desk and gives orders. Instead, he said, it’s more important to listen to people on the ground and actively engage in the change management process. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or budding development professional — check out more news, analysis and advice online to guide your career and professional development, and subscribe to Doing Good to receive top international development career and recruitment news every week.