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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. |