Didier Wenger

A Lifelong Commitment to Humanitarian Excellence

Early Life and Education

Didier Wenger was born in 1959, in Switzerland where he currently resides. Didier holds a Diploma in Commerce and a Diploma in Project Management. Bi-lingual in French and English, Didier is also a skilled chef specializing in chocolate making, confectionary, and pastry. His adventurous spirit is evidenced by his experience as one of the crew members on a high-sea sailing boat.

Professional Experience

Didier Wenger's career has been profoundly influenced by his 41-year tenure with the Terre des hommes Foundation, a Swiss child-based organization. His versatile experience spans numerous roles at both the country and headquarters levels, showcasing his adaptability and dedication to humanitarian work.

Country-Level Engagements

1. Administrator in Ethiopia: Didier and the team played a key role in emergency response efforts. He managed logistics and provided essential support during crises. His administrative skills ensured the smooth operation of relief activities. The contribution of all the team directly impacted the lives of many.

2. Director of Programmes in North Bangladesh: Didier coordinated a diverse range of initiatives, including Health and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) projects, Education (schools and vocational training centers), Social Rehabilitation projects, and Emergency Responses.

3. Country Representative in Sri Lanka: Didier began and oversaw social rehabilitation projects for unaccompanied minors, spearheading community development and education initiatives, and managed financial and human resources. His role required constant liaison with local and national authorities, ensuring alignment and compliance with regional requirements.

Headquarters-Level Contributions

1. Administrative Officer in Human Resources: Didier was part of a small, dedicated team that managed all organizational personnel functions, including recruitment, administrative follow-up, payroll, and leave systems. He maintained and updated the personnel manual regularly.

2. Finance Manager: Didier coordinated a finance and administration team of six which was responsible for overseeing financial (including Treasury), logistic, and administrative and HR controls in up to 45 working countries. Didier was directly responsible for the Asia and Middle Eastern regions. He contributed significantly to the introduction of the SAGA accounting system within Terre des hommes, facilitating direct financial follow-up of donor-funded projects, and played a pivotal role in coordinating annual budgets and external audits.
3. A specialism in financial audit and, where necessary, forensic audits - alongside a skilled psychological approach - allowed him to manage many internal audits both at HQ and country level, including work within partners funded organisations.

Personal Life

Didier's personal interests and hobbies reflect a dynamic personality. He enjoys adventure and has a background in high-sea sailing, illustrating his love for exploring and overcoming challenges.

Conclusion

Didier Wenger's extensive experience in development and humanitarian sectors indicate his unwavering commitment to international humanitarian action. His long technical expertise in administration, his experience of financial management and financial control and his commitment to collegiate working recommend him as a highly skilled and empathetic consultant, one committed to the highest standards of discipline and probity.

Contact SDC for more details of how Didier, and other highly specialised consultants, may assist your organisation.