Conversations on Development Management
Management challenges of social sector organisations
About the Session
In the second session of our Conversations on Development Management series, we turn our focus to the day-to-day management challenges faced by social sector organisations. From building and retaining teams to managing programmes, fundraising, and stakeholder expectations, this session offers a grounded look at what it takes to run mission-driven organisations effectively.
Join us for a conversation between Gopi Sankar G, faculty at Azim Premji University, and Liby T Johnson, Executive Director of Gram Vikas, as they unpack themes like:
- Human resource management in the social sector
- What does a marketing professional do in a development organisation?
- Who can join the social sector? What does a career path look like?
This session is ideal for:
- Graduates and final-year students from any discipline who are passionate about engaging with social change and are exploring careers in the development sector
- Young professionals working in NGOs, CSR, public systems, or grassroots initiatives who are looking to strengthen their understanding of organisational management and leadership
- Individuals from corporate or business backgrounds who are considering a meaningful transition into development work
- Anyone curious about how management principles can be adapted to serve the public good in areas such as education, health, livelihoods, sustainability, and inclusion
- Gain insights into how management principles are applied to address social challenges
- Understand the dynamics of leadership and organisational development in the development sector
- Explore career pathways that integrate management with public purpose
For any questions or support, please write to outreach@apu.edu.in
About the speakers
Liby T Johnson is the Executive Director of Gram Vikas, a renowned non-profit organisation working with rural communities across India on water and sanitation, housing, education, and renewable energy. With more than 30 years of experience in the social sector, Liby has held leadership roles in organisations like ActionAid, RedR India, and the UNDP. His work focuses on participatory development, resilience building, and community-led approaches to change.
Gopi Sankar G is a faculty member at the School of Development, Azim Premji University. He holds a PhD in Public Policy from the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore and is a graduate of the Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA). His research focuses on agriculture markets, livelihood security, hybrid organisations, and policy analysis. Before his doctoral studies, Gopi spent over a decade working across corporate, government, and non-profit sectors and is also the co-founder of the Jeevana Vayo Swasthya Foundation, which works to support the dignity and autonomy of the elderly.
