Sue Ackerly Appointed as Global Fund Ombudsperson
30 November 2020
The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, tuberculosis and Malaria today announced the appointment of Sue Ackerly as Ombudsperson, reinforcing its commitment to a strong and independent informal mechanism for staff and strengthening the Global Fund’s culture of diversity, inclusion and dignity.
The appointment, which followed a competitive selection process, was made by unanimous panel decision, which included a representative of the Global Fund’s Staff Council.
Ackerly is based in Melbourne, Australia. An experienced organizational ombudsperson, since 2014 she has where she has worked for multiple government departments in the state of Victoria. A psychologist of 30-years standing, she brings experience in mental health, wellbeing, coaching and mediation. Ackerly also has significant experience in conflict and dispute resolution.
She will continue to be based in Australia, delivering ombud services remotely. As current travel and working restrictions relating to COVID-19 are relaxed, she will also be available to meet staff in person, with regular visits to the Global Health Campus in Geneva.
Ackerly said: “I have a passion for helping individuals at all levels of an organization address workplace concerns and disputes early and informally. I adopt a systemic organizational approach to analysis and recommendations thereby contributing as part of a wider team to the creation of positive and safe workplaces.”
The selection process was guided by the primary operating principle that the role is independent from any governing body or individual at the Global Fund. Ackerly will operate in accordance with the Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics of the International Ombudsman Association, and work to provide a safe, neutral and confidential forum in which staff may give their views, express feelings and concerns, and provide feedback.
The purpose of the Ombudsperson at the Global Fund is to complement other avenues available to assist employees and the organization in facilitating the informal resolution of issues and contributing to a healthy and productive work environment.
Welcoming the appointment, Marijke Wijnroks, Chief of Staff at the Global Fund, said: “Through strong collaboration and engagement with both the Staff Council and leadership, Sue will play a key role in helping us build a culture of diversity, inclusion and dignity.”