Ep 24. Darren Cormack, CEO Mines Advisory Group (MAG): Leadership by deliberate action

“Be curious and communicate… Find the tension between reflection and action. (As a leader) you can equip yourself and you can develop in particular ways by deliberate action.”Darren Cormack is Chief Executive of the Mines Advisory Group, also known as MAG International. Since its establishment in 1989, MAG has helped over 20 million people in more than 70 countries, rebuild their lives and livelihoods after war. This global humanitarian and advocacy organisation works to find and remove lethal landmines and unexploded bombs in place affected by conflict. With over 5,000 staff across 26 countries, Darren shares his experiences stepping up to take the top job at the height of the pandemic in May 2020. He provides insights on lessons learned and practical examples of how he is steering MAG and its people, to thrive in a changing environment. Darren also talks about the importance and relevance of MAG’s work in a changing global context, and how even today, at least 15 people are killed or injured by landmines every single day. Recorded August 2021.Guest Biography Darren Cormack is the CEO of the Mines Advisory Group (MAG), a global humanitarian, development and campaigning charity. Darren joined MAG in 2008 and prior to taking over as CEO, Darren was the Director of Strategy and Government Relations, responsible for the design, articulation and delivery of MAG’s organisational funding strategy. Darren holds a first class Masters degree in International Management from the University of Lancaster Management School and is an experienced Non-Executive Director. Before he joined MAG, Darren worked in the private and non-profit sectors in the UK and internationally, managing a range of environment, conservation, humanitarian and development projects. He has lived and worked in Cambodia, South Sudan, Sudan, the Philippines and Indonesia.Linkshttps://www.maginternational.org/ This episode was sponsored by EdenTree Investment Management.https://www.edentreeim.com/insights/edentree-sponsor-the-charity-ceo-podcast-season-3