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Oxfam GB Removes CEO After Review Finds Leadership Failures

Trustees cite a Howlett Brown review that reported breaches of process, including interference in safeguarding.

Overview

  • Trustees unanimously resolved on Friday that Halima Begum’s position was untenable and confirmed she has left the organisation.
  • An external review conducted in November and December by Howlett Brown drew on testimony from 32 current and former colleagues and documentary evidence.
  • Investigators identified serious issues in leadership behaviour and decision‑making, including breaches of organisational processes and values and interference in safeguarding and integrity probes.
  • Jan Oldfield, Oxfam’s chief supporter officer, has been appointed acting chief executive as the board moves to strengthen oversight and implement recommendations.
  • Staff concerns surfaced during a cost‑saving restructuring after falling income, with letters reported to have drawn around 70 to more than 100 signatories; Begum is reported to deny the allegations as a trustee criticises press leaks as unfair.