Comprehensive Organizational Turnaround at the Palestinian Shippers Council
Client: Palestinian Shippers Council (PSC), under the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
Industry: Trade and Development
Duration: February to May 2012
Context: The PSC was established to address the urgent needs of Palestinian importers and exporters, playing a crucial role in the region’s economic infrastructure. However, the PSC faced significant organizational and financial challenges that hindered its ability to effectively serve its members.
Project Overview: I was engaged by the Assistance to the Palestinian People Unit (APPU) of UNCTAD as a strategic management consultant. My mission was to evaluate and restructure the PSC to enhance its operational efficiency and ensure its sustainability.
Challenges:
Organizational Instability: The PSC's internal structures and financial management were not robust enough to support its mission.
Member Needs: A thorough understanding of the specific issues faced by Palestinian shippers was needed to tailor the PSC’s services effectively.
Sustainability: Long-term financial and operational sustainability of the PSC was a critical concern.
Approach: I conducted two missions in Ramallah, working closely with the PSC and three local consultants. My approach involved:
Organizational Assessment: Evaluating the PSC's structure, internal rules, and financial status.
Stakeholder Analysis: Engaging with PSC members and the broader shipping community to identify key issues and needs.
Strategic Planning: Developing a comprehensive restructuring plan based on the insights gathered.
Key Deliverables:
Three-Year Business Plan: Outlined the strategic direction for the PSC, focusing on strengthening its institutional capacity.
Management Manual: Provided detailed guidelines for operational procedures and management practices.
Terms of Reference: Defined clear roles and responsibilities within the PSC.
Action Plan: Presented a step-by-step plan to implement the recommended changes, including timelines and resource allocations.
Photo by yaman zaareer on Unsplash
Implementation:
Collaboration: My ability to work effectively with a diverse team in a complex political environment was critical to the project’s success.
Communication: My refined communication skills ensured that all stakeholders were aligned and informed throughout the process.
Adaptability: My flexibility in adapting to changing project requirements and demands demonstrated her strong business acumen.
Results: The project culminated in the successful restructuring of the PSC, significantly improving its organizational and financial stability. The three-year strategy provided a robust framework for the PSC’s operations, ensuring it could effectively support its members and contribute to the region’s economic development.
Testimonial: "Caroline's strategic insights and take-charge attitude were pivotal in driving the project forward. Her commitment to deadlines and ability to incorporate diverse perspectives resulted in a well-rounded and effective restructuring plan." - Randa Jamal, Economic Affairs Officer, UNCTAD.