Industry Advisory Group

Mr. Patnaik’s expertise in strategy development, resource mobilization, and policy advocacy has significantly advanced ActionAid’s impact. He is actively engaged in forming alliances with civil society and social movements, making him an influential advocate for human rights and social justice in the region. With over twenty-five years of experience in the development sector, Mr. Patnaik has progressed from grassroots work to his current position at ActionAid’s International office. His journey began in India with UNDCP and later with Oxfam, which provided him with a wealth of experience in addressing issues of poverty, development, and human rights. His assignments with ActionAid have equipped him with in-depth knowledge and skills in leading and managing programs, as well as interacting with diverse constituencies across various cultures and socio-political contexts. In his current role as Asia Regional Head, Mr. Patnaik manages and supports ActionAid’s country program operations in the Asia region. Before taking on this role, he led and managed ActionAid’s global strategy review process, coordinating efforts among 45 countries. As part of his various responsibilities, he engages in leading, facilitating, and reviewing country strategy development processes. He has also led and managed large-scale programs, including humanitarian response initiatives. His contributions include program conceptualization and design, evidence-based analysis, policy research, advocacy, campaigning, monitoring and evaluation, organizational health assessment, and risk management. Mr. Patnaik has collaborated with various platforms, social movements, and academic institutions, and he has successfully led fundraising efforts, securing substantial grants from institutions, corporations, and major donors. Additionally, he has experience in organizational nationalization processes, including local registration and the formation of boards and general assemblies. Mr. Patnaik possesses extensive management experience in human resources and performance management within a large, complex, and decentralized organization. He has led large and diverse teams and facilitated smooth transition and change management processes. He has played a key role on several internal committees and has served on the advisory boards of various institutions.