Meet Andreja Tonč from Zagreb, Croatia. With a remarkable career spanning over two decades, Andreja has established herself as a leading Capacity Development Specialist in the Development Aid sector. She is renowned for her expertise in managing technical assistance projects, capacity building measures, and evaluation activities across multiple European regions.
Early Aspirations and Academic Foundations
Born and raised in Zagreb, Croatia, Andreja Tonč was always drawn to the complex world of social work and societal development. Her academic journey began at the prestigious Zagreb University, where she pursued a Master of Arts in Social Work from 1993 to 1998. This period was crucial for Andreja, as it laid the groundwork for her lifelong commitment to social welfare and development aid.
“Education is more than learning; it’s a pathway to real-world impact,” Andreja recalls about her university days, which were filled with learning both in and outside the classroom.
Stepping into the Professional World
After completing her studies, Andreja embarked on her professional journey. Her early career was marked by a series of roles that prepared her for the complexities of capacity development and project management. Between 1998 and 2000, she managed the central office of the GLAS ’99 Campaign for Youth, which was instrumental in mobilizing youth participation in Croatian parliamentary elections. This role not only honed her organizational skills but also deepened her understanding of societal dynamics.
Ascending the Ranks in Development Aid
As the new millennium began, Andreja’s career trajectory took a steep climb. She joined the REC Regional Environmental Center, serving from January 2002 to March 2010. Here, she excelled as a trainer and consultant, focusing on enhancing NGO capabilities and public participation in environmental decision-making processes across several Balkan countries. Her work during this period solidified her reputation as a skilled capacity builder and a dedicated environmental advocate.
“The core of capacity building is empowering others to achieve more,” notes Andreja, reflecting on her time with REC.
Specializing in EU Technical Assistance and Grant Management
Andreja’s expertise caught the attention of several international organizations, leading to her involvement in numerous EU-funded projects. From 2006 onwards, she served as a Capacity Development Specialist, a role that saw her designing and implementing over 70 capacity-building programs across Europe. Her work not only involved training about 3,000 individuals in strategic and operational planning but also managing and evaluating significant grant schemes.
Her notable positions included serving as the Team Leader for various EU technical assistance projects, such as monitoring and evaluation of the European Social Fund in Croatia and supporting social welfare regulatory mechanisms in Serbia. These roles required a delicate balance of technical knowledge and leadership, as she managed multidisciplinary teams and interfaced with various governmental and non-governmental stakeholders.
Senior Management Roles and Expanding Influence
Andreja’s career reached new heights as she took on senior management roles in large civil society organizations. Her leadership as the Acting Director at the Regional Environmental Centre for Central and Eastern Europe and her strategic oversight as USAID Community Partnership Programme Manager demonstrated her capacity to influence and lead complex initiatives.
In these roles, Andreja led efforts to develop transparent public funding systems and strategic frameworks for civil society and social welfare systems. Her leadership not only propelled organizational missions but also shaped developmental policies across the regions she worked in.
“Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence,” Andreja shares about her leadership philosophy.
Current Engagements and Future Directions
Currently, Andreja continues to leverage her extensive experience by providing consultancy and training services focused on EU funds management, project management, and organizational development. Her work remains pivotal in shaping capacity-building strategies and frameworks for various international bodies and governmental institutions.
Andreja is also an avid participant in ongoing learning, having completed professional development courses in coaching at Erickson Coaching International and various other certifications that enrich her skills and effectiveness.
“Continuous learning equips us with the tools to face new challenges,” she states, emphasizing the importance of adapting and evolving in one’s career.
Legacy and Ongoing Impact
Andreja Tonč’s career is a testament to her relentless pursuit of development and empowerment. Through her work, she has not only impacted thousands of lives but also contributed to the systemic change in how organizations and governments manage development and capacity building.
As she looks to the future, Andreja remains committed to her mission of fostering development through education, training, and strategic leadership. Her story is one of inspiration, showcasing the profound impact one individual can have on the global stage of development aid.
Leadership Lessons
- Empower Through Education: Effective leaders invest in building capabilities and knowledge within their teams, enabling them to tackle new challenges confidently.
- Lead by Example: Authenticity in leadership involves demonstrating the values you wish to see in your team. Consistency between words and actions builds trust and respect.
- Foster Collaboration: The strength of a team lies in its collaborative spirit. Encourage open communication and collective problem-solving to enhance productivity and innovation.
- Adapt and Evolve: The only constant in life is change. Successful leaders are those who adapt to shifting environments and continually seek personal and professional growth.
- Build Sustainable Systems: Leadership is not just about achieving goals but also about creating systems that endure beyond your tenure, ensuring lasting impact.
Editorial Note
Andreja Tonč’s illustrious career is a beacon of leadership and commitment to development. Her journey offers profound insights into effective capacity building and transformative leadership. We invite other executives inspired by Andreja’s story to share their own experiences on our platform. Submit your biography at executivesdiary.com/blog/submit-biography at no cost and join a community of distinguished leaders shaping the future.
