Cochrane
Cochrane is a global independent not-for-profit organisation of more than 79,000 members and supporters from over 130 countries. Their mission is to promote evidence-informed health decision-making by producing high-quality, relevant, accessible systematic reviews and other synthesized research evidence.
Further to the sudden departure of their CEO due to ill health, the Board were looking for a seasoned interim to join them and lead the organisation not only on a day to day basis but to spearhead a change management process, helping to address current challenges and also focus them for the future.
They also saw this as a fantastic opportunity to modernise them as an organisation, reviewing how they work, simplifying where appropriate and ensuring they are fit for purpose. They are currently perceived as a UK-centric charity and wanted to change that to reflect that they are a truly Global organisation with awareness of their community. Alongside this there is a need to address funding challenges which will require a new business model and an internal piece to work with both staff and Board to support them through the change process.
Prospectus were engaged to identify high calibre interim candidates known to us/within our networks, rather than advertising. This was an initial 6-month contract (with potential to extend depending on progress), with a start date 4-6 weeks (or as soon as possible). The Co-Chairs interviewed three appointable interim candidates for the role, ultimately appointing Judith Brodie, a deeply experienced charity leader with diverse voluntary and public sector experience in executive and non-executive roles.