Dhivya O’Connor is a dynamic charity leader, with over 22 years' experience across both the charity and commercial sectors. Dhivya has served as CEO for organisations including United World Schools, Chartered Institute of Fundraising and Children with Cancer UK. She is a Board Member of Book Aid International, a library development charity operating in over 30 countries; sits on the Steering Committee of Groundbreakers, a network promoting women leaders in the voluntary sector; and is Governor of a London state primary school.
Prior to joining the third sector, she held various strategy, business development and leadership roles, and helped drive transformative growth, working in organisations including Lloyds Bank, GE Capital and OctopusTravel (now part of Expedia Group).
Dhivya is also the creator and executive producer of the chart-topping The Charity CEO Podcast.
What is the biggest piece of learning or the best advice you’d like to share when it comes to combining a senior leadership career with raising young children?
“Always say yes first to opportunities for career progression, increased profile and/or learning. You always have the option to say no later! (if something isn’t right). Saying yes in the first instance could lead to new and exciting things that you may not expect. Be clear about your boundaries and ‘non-negotiables’ and ensure you communicate them widely and especially to all relevant stakeholders.”
