Oxfam GB’s boss has left the organisation after an independent review identified “serious issues in the chief executive’s leadership behaviour and her decision-making, including breaches of organisational processes and values”.
The review into Dr Halima Begum’s behaviour, which was conducted between November and December, heard from 32 current and former Oxfam colleagues and documentary evidence.
Oxfam GB’s board concluded that Dr Begum’s position was untenable due to an “irretrievable breakdown in its trust and confidence” in her “ability to discharge the role”.
The Board passed a resolution on 12 December to this effect and Dr Begum has subsequently left the organisation.
Jan Oldfield, who has held the position of chief supporter officer for over four years, will become the group’s new acting head.
Acting co-chairs of Oxfam GB, Nana Afadzinu and Annie Hudson said: “Our priority now is to provide stability for our colleagues, partners and the communities we serve, to rebuild confidence across the organisation, and to ensure that the highest standards of governance, safeguarding and leadership are upheld.”
They added that: “The highest standards of leadership are vital to Oxfam.
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“They enable us to act in the best interests of the people and communities we serve, to support our staff, volunteers and network of shops across the UK, and to continue our work to tackle poverty and inequality around the world.”
The independent review was conducted by Howlett Brown, with multiple recommendations given.
Who is Dr Halima Begum?
Dr Begum had been Oxfam GB’s chief executive since she took over from Danny Sriskandarajah in April 2024.
She previously worked as the chief executive of ActionAid UK and the head of the Runnymede Trust.
At the time of the announcement, Charles Gurassa, Oxfam GB’s chair, said: “I am thrilled we have found the right person to lead us.”
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He also said that Dr Begum had a real passion to fight injustice and brought a wealth of experience in how to make change happen.
Runnymede Trust’s current chief executive, Shabna Begum, wrote on social media that she hoped: “our professional community affords her grace – and rejects the invitation to simplistic judgement. These things are never black and white.”
Oxfam GB has been approached for comment.
