WESSA Phase 1 report to HHCT_28.10.2021

6.3 Human resources

6.3.1 Strengths

• The strong presence and influence of women at all levels • Useful environmental knowledge and skills within the larger WESSA ecosystem (staff plus volunteers); including alliances with research and academic institutions for subject-specific expertise • Exco is experienced, resilient and adaptable • Professional technical staff have valuable management experience about implementing complex projects. This can be adapted for new purposes • WESSA staff are widely recognized as top environmental education experts • Many of the support staff are professional, competent and motivated. • Skills gaps have emerged over time. These affect WESSA’s outcomes and requires reprioritization • Professional technical staff specializing in project management and implementation have sacrificed their environmental and conservation expertise and personal networks • Despite recent retrenchments the staffing structure remains somewhat excessive in some areas • There is evidence of a trust deficit between staff, senior management and the Board, as well as between staff and volunteers which, if not addressed, can continue to cripple the organization • While WESSA staff identified the flat management structure as an advantage, the organization appears to be top-heavy with too many managerial roles for a small organization. This fuels mistrust and perceptions of financial imprudence among members. 6.3.2 Weaknesses • Most supporters still believe in WESSA o In a 2020 survey among members and supporters, more than 65% of respondents agreed that WESSA is delivering very strongly or strongly on its environmental objectives o In our 2021 online survey, members on average rated their satisfaction with WESSAs communication as 61.8 out of 100; their level of support for WESSA as 60.42 out of 100; and their confidence in WESSA’s ability to fulfil its mission as 69.77 out of 100 • WESSA’s existing sub-contracting clients are loyal and impressed by its good governance and presence on the ground • An existing membership and supporters’ structure with a long history of participation provides a good basis to build on 6.4 Support base, alliances and partnerships 6.4.1 Strengths

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