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Pathfinder International

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Dancing bears - Anonymous Pathfinder International Employee Review

1.0
Oct 5, 2017
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

There used to be a lot of pros about Pathfinder. That is history.

Cons

Let's start with dancing bears. The CEO asked country directors to "perform" song or dance for the board of directors - mind you, the country directors (host country nationals) are experienced public health professionals, doctors, midwives, PHDs etc. Sing and dance, really?? This is offensive, and in itself is reason for the CEO to step down. Inexcusable for the "leader" of an international development organization. And then it gets worse. All the experienced, executive staff that drove Pathfinder's mission (and impact) are gone, or have been demoted. This in addition to dismissing 30 or so staff early in the game, thus creating an environment of fear and loathing. Now we all want to leave, and the job searches are well known. Pathfinder has lost it's footing.

Explore other reviews about Pathfinder International

5.0
Mar 27, 2025
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Pathfinder has been around since 1957, and it has been able to continually attract technically sound and dynamic staff to help promote and deliver rights-based programming in sexual and reproductive health and economic development, especially focused on women. In the past few years, it has taken steps to decentralize operations, establishing regional offices for Africa and Middle East/Asia and supporting greater functional autonomy for regional and country office staff.

Cons

On the other hand, during the past years, Pathfinder International has re-organized itself at the headquarters level multiple times, leading to some level of confusion and unease. Additionally, as with other non-profit organizations, it is currently beset with funding problems, given the near-shuttering of USAID, a primary donor for Pathfinder programming. While it has been trying to broaden its source for revenue from other sources, income levels have been dropping, and culling of staff has become necessary.

1.0
Aug 20, 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Key strengths of the organization include its attractive compensation in order to recruit talented staff and a compelling mission that resonates with employees.

Cons

The company is executive-centric, showing loyalty to leadership while neglecting prudent financial management. The company has challenges with employee retention.

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