Dereje Adugna Tieke
Executive Leader
Addis Ababa
Summary
Over 35 years of visionary leadership across Africa and Asia, with a focus on international development, research, humanitarian assistant guru, and transformative project management. Adept at orchestrating large-scale donor-funded initiatives, recognized for agile team leadership in diverse landscapes. Skilled in forging strategic partnerships at local, national, and regional levels, with a strong grasp of country contexts and fundraising expertise. Specialize in donor compliance, orchestrating funds from diverse sources, and achieving operational excellence across multiple national offices. Demonstrated success in development and emergency program leadership, particularly in areas related to girls' education, adolescent health, health and nutrition, MCH, food security, youth empowerment, emergency response, advocacy, gender equality, and child protection. Persistent leader eager to lead and grow organizations. Skilled in strategic planning, problem-solving, and communication with good understanding of business principles, project management and team leadership. Collaborative with relentless work ethic. Pragmatic professional with solid experience in leadership roles. Adept at implementing strategic business plans, driving growth and improving operations. Skilled in financial management and stakeholder relations. Collaborative and dedicated to building and leading talented and motivated individuals.
Overview
39
39
years of professional experience
6
6
years of post-secondary education
2
2
Certifications
Work History
Chief Executive Officer
KOSF Cloth City (KCC)
10.2022 - 12.2023
- As CEO of KOSF Cloth City (KCC), I have been deeply committed to promoting Corporate Social Responsibility and empowering young people through skill development and job placement to foster a sustainable economy
- At KCC, I spearheaded innovative strategies aimed at optimizing factory operations while simultaneously championing initiatives to enhance the skills and employment prospects of young individuals
- Through strategic recruitment and comprehensive training programs, we successfully augmented production, marketing, and administrative capabilities within our workforce
- Moreover, I prioritized the establishment of a robust quality control system and implemented preventive maintenance protocols for machinery, ensuring consistent and high-quality output
- By analyzing production data and swiftly resolving operational issues, we maintained operational efficiency and minimized disruptions
- In alignment with our commitment to social responsibility, KCC forged strategic partnerships with ten organizations through Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs)
- These partnerships led to the establishment of over 10 branded factory outlets, providing valuable employment opportunities for unemployed youths in the community
- Our efforts bore fruit as we achieved a remarkable 62% increase in sales revenue within a span of six months, garnering recognition from the local government for our impactful contributions to the economy
- Additionally, I initiated a groundbreaking linkage between cotton farmers, Kosf spinning, and garment factories, aimed at providing multiple benefits, particularly for small-scale farmers
- This integrated approach not only supports local farmers but also ensures a sustainable and reliable supply chain for the garment industry
- By fostering economic empowerment, promoting skill development, and championing sustainable practices, KCC stands as a beacon of progress and social responsibility in the textile industry.
National Director
Habitat for Humanity Ethiopia (HFHE)
03.2020 - 09.2022
- As National Director at Habitat for Humanity Ethiopia (HFHE) from March 2020 to September 2022, I developed and operationalized a five-year country strategy in collaboration with government, donors, and peers
- Conducted impactful studies on vulnerable housing programs and mortgage housing in Ethiopia
- Pioneered integrated slum area development, focusing on walkways, drainage, WASH, and greening
- Introduced cash-based assistance in shelter and housing sectors for disaster-affected areas
- Established financial inclusion and innovation for affordable housing with Ethiopia National Telebirr
- Empowered vulnerable women communities through integrated slum area development projects
- Implemented 'Home Improvement Priorities for Low-Income Families,' successfully securing strategic funds from JTI, BMZ, and various donors.
Country Director
ChildFund International
07.2014 - 08.2019
- During my tenure, I led strategic planning, business development, and fundraising of USD 12 million annual budget
- Successfully executed the Zambia Nurse Life-Skill Training Project, resulting in positive youth employment outcomes
- Advocated for community-based distributor models for contraceptives, impacting over 350 trained individuals
- Implemented a comprehensive country strategy and organizational structural changes for enhanced program effectiveness
- Spearheaded low-cost, community-managed programs in early childhood education and development, nutrition, health, and WASH
- Managed emergency preparedness and response projects, including mosquito nets, education for school dropouts due to early marriage, and shelter construction
- Established Farmers Field School for knowledge-sharing among farmers and maintained oversight of financial management, compliance, and risk management for grants.
Africa Regional Grants and Contracts Manager
ChildFund International
03.2011 - 06.2014
- As the Africa Regional Grants and Contracts Manager at ChildFund International, I provided comprehensive support to 11 African country offices in grants and contracts administration, compliance, and management
- Implemented measures to strengthen systems and enhance staff capacity for effective grant and contract implementation
- Conducted internal control assessments and offered expert guidance on business development
- Led workshops and training sessions focusing on high-value, complex grants and contracts
- Reviewed grant agreements, budgets, and proposals to ensure regulatory compliance and cost realism
- Monitored and ensured compliance with internal policies, donor regulations, and agreement terms.
Assistant Country Director – Operation
CARE International
08.2009 - 02.2011
- I established efficient program support functions, addressing weaknesses and promoting best practices
- Built staff capacity in financial policy and operations, ensuring proper grant and contract management
- Coordinated program support for a USD 93.5 million USAID-funded JOBS project in Pakistan
- Managed emergency response efforts in conflict areas, providing healthcare, non-food items, and psychosocial support
- Developed and conducted humanitarian response training programs, enhancing staff expertise in managing USAID grants.
Team Leader – Darfur Program
CARE International
04.2007 - 07.2009
- I successfully managed seven field offices overseeing a USD 23 million annual budget program in challenging environments
- Coordinated projects in diverse sectors, including life skills for youth, livelihoods, and water and sanitation
- Developed and maintained strong networks with multiple donors and INGOs
- Led initiatives in conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and reconciliation
- Coordinated humanitarian activities in conflict areas, implementing early recovery IDP projects.
Project Manager
CARE International
03.2006 - 03.2007
- I oversaw the successful implementation of a EUR 4.5 million Livelihood Enhancement Project, positively impacting 45,000 households
- The project included the execution of income-generating activities, the establishment of community-based early warning systems, and the initiation of sustainable agriculture initiatives
- Additionally, I advocated for changes in national policy regarding rural water use fees and conducted vulnerability assessments, contributing to the development of effective program strategies.
Area Coordinator
UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
03.2005 - 02.2006
- I successfully coordinated agriculture and livestock recovery projects in collaboration with international and local NGOs
- I established women's groups, introducing innovative activities to encourage reforestation and sustainable livelihoods
- Additionally, I conducted inter-agency coordination meetings and assessments, playing a key role in developing advocacy messages for conflict resolution among pastoral and sedentary farmers.
Emergency Response Manager
CARE Ethiopia
07.2000 - 02.2005
- I successfully oversaw the execution of USD 3 million in humanitarian response projects, focusing on providing seeds, tools, and emergency livestock support
- Leading initiatives across three field offices, I managed and supported humanitarian and transitional projects
- I played a crucial role in capacity-building for government and CARE staff, conducting comprehensive training in SPHERE standards, supply chain management, and emergency preparedness
- Additionally, I established transparent working relationships with local counterparts, implemented a proper financial management system, and conducted nutrition surveys and rapid assessments
- My contributions extended to the field-level application of program quality standards, development of proposals, and coordination within the Disaster Response Action Team and central office units
- I also initiated and managed eight Community-based Therapeutic Care programs, producing detailed financial and narrative reports.
Project Officer – Non-Formal Environment Education
ZoA Refugee Care
01.2000 - 06.2000
- I conducted thorough appraisals and assessments of environmental and livelihood conditions in refugee camps
- I played a key role in managing emergency water supply through small hand pumps and developed impactful non-formal environmental education programs
- My approach ensured gender-sensitive and participatory implementation, adhering to SPHERE standards
- I actively contributed to building the capacity of partners, local organizations, and communities
- Additionally, I designed effective shelter solutions, taking into account considerations for camp management, environmental impact, and sustainability.
Program Manager – Integrated Food Security and Capacity Building
Project Concern Worldwide
03.1998 - 11.1999
- I excelled in planning, coordinating, and implementing activities with a primary focus on food security
- My role included offering valuable technical advice on establishing seed banks, women’s groups, and tree and fruit seedling nurseries
- I played a crucial part in facilitating training sessions on participatory methodologies for both communities and extension staff
- Furthermore, I provided guidance on the development of social service infrastructure and effectively coordinated research initiatives related to food security.
Program Officer – Food Security Project
Agency for Cooperation and Research in Development
12.1995 - 02.1998
- I played a key role in planning and executing participatory farm-based demonstrations focused on improved agricultural practices
- Additionally, I established fruit and tree seedling nurseries, implemented small-scale hand-operated washer pumps, and developed procedures for the establishment and management of community seed banks and women’s horticultural groups
- Contributing to essential infrastructure, I constructed hand-dug wells and cattle troughs, while also providing on-the-job training to farmers and extension staff on crop diversification.
Agricultural Researcher – Community-based Development Project
CARE Ethiopia
06.1993 - 11.1995
- I showcased expertise in demonstrating improved seed varieties, agro-forestry, and soil conservation techniques
- My role extended to training both extension staff and local farmers based on the research findings, contributing to enhanced agricultural practices and sustainable development.
Research Scientist
Institute of Agricultural Research (IAR)
06.1985 - 05.1991
- I conducted studies on water retention and conductivity of agricultural products and soil
- Additionally, I played a crucial role in training governmental extension workers and farmers' development agents in farm implement research
- My responsibilities included designing and testing animal- and tractor-drawn farm implements, contributing to advancements in agricultural technology and practices.
Education
Master’s in education -
UNICAF University
07.2019 - 05.2021
B.Sc. in Agriculture - undefined
Addis Ababa University, Alemaya College
09.1981 - 05.1985
Skills
Program Leadership
Certification
Certification Level One, Project Management for Development Professionals, 01/01/17, 01/01/17
Publications
- Impact of Vulnerable Housing in Habitat for Humanity Ethiopia Target Areas, 2022, (Unpublished Document)
- Guidelines for Rapid Environmental Impact Assessment in Disasters, Contributing Researcher, Apr 2005, Benfield Hazard Research Centre, University College London/CARE International
- Relief Seed Assistance in Ethiopia, Co-author, 2004, Chapter in "Addressing Seed Security in Disaster Response: Linking Relief with Development," Centro Internacional de Agricultura Tropical (CIAT)
- Destocking to Improve Food Security in Drought-prone Ethiopia, 2003, Report, Field Exchange
- Report on Nutrition Survey Result of Dire, Teltele and Yabello Woreda, Borana Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia, 2001, CARE Ethiopia
- Socio-economic Survey Report of Gubakoricha and Habro Woreda of Western Hararghe, Ethiopia, 1993, CARE Ethiopia
- A Device for Measuring the Depth of Sowing and the Degree of Aggregation through the Tilt Depth, 1989, IAR Newsletter
- Planter Design-related Physical Properties of Selected Cereals and Pulse Crop Seeds, 1987, Ethiopian Journal of Agricultural Science, IAR
Training
- The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People and Change Management, ChildFund, 09/01/18, 09/01/18
- National Adaptation Plan: Building Climate Resilience in Agriculture, UNITAR, online, 11/05/17, 12/16/17
- Specialized Module on Children and Climate Change, UNITAR/UNICEF, online, 11/01/17, 11/01/17
- Specialized Module on Human Health and Climate Change, UNITAR/WHO, online, 11/01/17, 11/01/17
- USAID Rules and Regulations, Inside NGO, Nairobi, Kenya, 04/01/12, 04/01/12
- Personal Safety and Security Awareness, CARE Academy, online, 01/01/07, 01/01/07
- Dynamics Atlas Mapping Training, FAO, Khartoum, Sudan, 05/01/05, 05/01/05
- Nutrition Program Monitoring and Evaluation, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA, 06/01/03, 06/01/03
- SPHERE Training of Trainer Course #7, SPHERE Project, Geneva, Switzerland, 03/01/03, 03/01/03
- Alternative Energy Technology: Course on Solar, Biogas, and Charcoal Briquette for Rural Application, Consortium of Christian Relief & Development Associations, Debre Zeit, Ethiopia, 03/01/01, 03/01/01
Timeline
Chief Executive Officer
KOSF Cloth City (KCC)
10.2022 - 12.2023
National Director
Habitat for Humanity Ethiopia (HFHE)
03.2020 - 09.2022
Master’s in education -
UNICAF University
07.2019 - 05.2021
Country Director
ChildFund International
07.2014 - 08.2019
Africa Regional Grants and Contracts Manager
ChildFund International
03.2011 - 06.2014
Assistant Country Director – Operation
CARE International
08.2009 - 02.2011
Team Leader – Darfur Program
CARE International
04.2007 - 07.2009
Project Manager
CARE International
03.2006 - 03.2007
Area Coordinator
UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
03.2005 - 02.2006
Emergency Response Manager
CARE Ethiopia
07.2000 - 02.2005
Project Officer – Non-Formal Environment Education
ZoA Refugee Care
01.2000 - 06.2000
Program Manager – Integrated Food Security and Capacity Building
Project Concern Worldwide
03.1998 - 11.1999
Program Officer – Food Security Project
Agency for Cooperation and Research in Development
12.1995 - 02.1998
Agricultural Researcher – Community-based Development Project
CARE Ethiopia
06.1993 - 11.1995
Research Scientist
Institute of Agricultural Research (IAR)
06.1985 - 05.1991
B.Sc. in Agriculture - undefined
Addis Ababa University, Alemaya College
09.1981 - 05.1985
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