Sarah Callaghan
Over 20 years I've had the privilege of working with excellent people on hard problems: rebuilding justice and governance in conflict-affected states, and learning how to work with systems that resist change. That's given me a practical, honest sense of what moves things forward, and what doesn't.
My work sits at the intersection of analysis, design, facilitation and delivery. I help organisations and partnerships surface what's really happening, build the trust and governance to act together, and translate insight into decisions that stick.
Recent work includes leading systems change partnerships and learning at Collaboration for Impact, governance and justice programs across Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia and the Pacific with Crown Agents and AusAID, and justice and democracy programming in Uganda and Liberia with the UN and Irish Aid.
- 20+ years of analytical and strategy experience. I design and facilitate processes that support teams to pause, reflect and adapt. It's through applying what we learn that we reach our goals.
- Supporting partners to work together. I believe progress comes from alignment; knowing our role, trusting others to play theirs, and knowing when to lean into points of overlap.
- Translating strategy into action. I enjoy seeing it all come together. Small, well-timed actions can hold relationships together and combine for impact.
Sarah holds to agreed principles and roles in navigating complex relationships in a way that is adaptive rather than fixed. The result is strong coherence in the purpose, principles and approach that Sarah brings to her work.
My relationship approach
Keen to dive in?
Getting to know each other, and whether we're the right fit, is time well spent. I can share references and samples. If we proceed, I recommend a quick ways-of-working chat.
Things will change
I find it helps to focus on the outcome and keep the details flexible. I'm open to revising scope, and aim to contribute only where I can genuinely add value.
It's not you, it's me
Clear communication matters. If our expectations differ, I like to get on the phone quickly to talk it through. I respond well to feedback.
No hidden costs
I work on fixed fees, or agreed time and expenses where appropriate. I don't charge for basic administration, and offer new partners a pro bono discovery phase.
Living my values
My goal is quality, timely work that helps you achieve your purpose. Success means delivering with curiosity, kindness and integrity.
Let's see if we're a good fit
A short conversation is the easiest way to find out — no obligation, no jargon.