Build It International appoints new Chief Executive
Build It International is delighted to announce the appointment of Tum Kazunga as its new Chief Executive Officer from 4 September 2023.
Tum will take over from Andrew Jowett, co-founder and CEO since 2007.
The charity is a leading provider of high-quality vocational skills training to disadvantaged young men and women in Zambia, allowing them to find employment in the construction sector. Over the past 16 years, Build It has trained over 1,700 builders and completed 55 new schools and health clinics benefitting well over 300,000 people.
Tum is joining Build It after seven years with Habitat for Humanity Great Britain, having held a number of positions during this period. As CEO over the last five years, he successfully steered the organisation through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, helping the charity grow its income and impact beyond its pre-pandemic levels.
Prior to his time at Habitat for Humanity, Tum worked for a number of not-for-profit organisations with a focus on developing corporate partnerships.
Ronnie Fleming, Chair – UK Board of Build It commented:
“Tum brings the perfect blend of fundraising and programming expertise to the role as well as a strong track record of leadership in the international development sector.
Appointing a CEO born in Zambia, who has spent many years working and living in the country, underlines the value we place on local leadership as we look to expand our activities and supporter base.”
Lucie Kasanga, Chair – Zambia Board of Build It added:
“On behalf of the team in Zambia, we are so happy to welcome Tum to this innovative and transformational institution and very much look forward to working with him.”
Tum Kazunga shares:
“I’m thrilled to be joining Build It International as their next CEO. The opportunity to work with a charity that’s helping Zambian youth access the skills needed to help the country develop is exciting.
I’ve been so impressed with the impact that Build It has achieved and look forward to working with my colleagues to build on that legacy. The opportunities to contribute to Zambia’s future are wide-ranging, and I can’t wait to roll up my sleeves and get started!”
Tum is a strong advocate of the importance of African NGOs controlling the development agenda and is delighted that Build It shares this vision. The charity is committed to taking bold action to help realise this ambition, including merging the UK and Zambia Boards.
Peridot Partners were appointed to search for the best candidate. A selection panel of four Build It Trustees was formed which included Board Chairs Ronnie Fleming and Lucie Kasanga, together with Neil MacDougall and Florence Bearman. Andrew Jowett was also a member. Lucie came over from Zambia to the UK for final interviews. Senior staff had the opportunity to meet the shortlisted candidates in Shrewsbury or online.
When not working Tum enjoys spending time outdoors, playing sport and reading. Tum is married and has three children.
For more information please contact Lisa Carson, Head of Fundraising and Communications: lisa@builditinternational.org