New Leadership, Same Commitment: SIWI Looks to the Future
A New Chapter Begins at SIWI. With a new board in place and Helena Thybell stepping in as Executive Director, SIWI is looking firmly to the future. In a rapidly changing world, new thinking is essential to meet challenges and seize opportunities. Here’s what Helena and SIWI’s new Chair, Tom Panella, have to say about what lies ahead.
Committed to Our Mission, Ready to Evolve
What does it mean for SIWI to now have a new Executive Director and a new board?
Helena Thybell: SIWI’s fundamental mission remains unchanged. We are more convinced than ever that water is the key to addressing the most pressing challenges of our time, including climate change, and we remain deeply committed to leading efforts to find solutions. At the same time, we recognize the need to adapt—by continuously evaluating our methods, partnerships, and internal structures. That’s a natural part of any organization’s evolution. I bring seasoned experience in organizational development, strategy, and positioning, and I’m excited to work alongside a new board with its deep roots in the water sector.
Tom Panella: SIWI’s new governance structure aligns the organization’s leadership with its mission. With a board composed of global experts from the water community, and Helena’s combination of Swedish grounding and extensive international experience, SIWI is well-positioned for a sustainable future. The board intends to be actively engaged, bringing our experience, networks, and diversity to support the organization. Together, we’re committed to developing a niche where SIWI can thrive and maximize impact.
“SIWI’s fundamental mission remains unchanged... but we recognize the need to adapt.”
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
What challenges and opportunities do you see ahead?
HT: Like many of our peers, we’re seeing that meaningful progress on the Sustainable Development Goals is becoming increasingly difficult and lagging. The funding landscape is shifting, and in some areas shrinking, which means that we need to work more efficiently across thematic and geographic boundaries. But with change also comes opportunity. It is a time when new when new partnerships are forged, and innovation is sparked. With over 30 years of international experience, SIWI is well-positioned to lead this. This is not the time for siloed thinking, we need integrated approaches for the future
TP: Defining a niche where SIWI can have the most impact, while navigating tighter resources, is a challenge. But as Helena points out, it also forces us to focus and explore new collaboration for meaningful change. SIWI enjoys a strong reputation and brand recognition; it has been a leading voice in the water community for more than three decades. World Water Week holds a unique position as the premier global water conference, where everyone is welcome, everyone shows up, and everyone can speak as equals. We will absolutely build on that.
“This new governance structure aligns the organization’s leadership with its global mission.”
Organizational Change with People at the Core
What is your take on the organizational changes SIWI has recently undergone?
HT: Since starting as Executive Director in mid-March, I’ve made it a priority to understand the impact of the recent changes. Organizational transitions should never be taken lightly. I’m currently meeting individually with every member of staff, as well as engaging with teams and departments across SIWI, and collecting input from partners and other stakeholders.
What stands out most is the dedication and competence of our staff. They are, without a doubt, our greatest asset. Even in difficult times, their commitment has been remarkable, and I will do everything I can to ensure that we use our competence and energy in the best possible way.
I’m also grateful for the strong support SIWI receives from the global water community. That encouragement has meant a great deal, and it reaffirms SIWI’s important role, one we must continue to play in close collaboration with others.
TP: A leaner, more focused approach was needed for SIWI to remain relevant and adapt to a shifting landscape. Greater integration and collaboration are essential, and while this kind of transition is never easy, I believe Helena is exceptionally well-suited to guide SIWI through the next phase to a more impactful and sustainable position.
“Our greatest asset is our people.”
The Road Ahead: Innovation and Impact
Helena, what’s on top of your agenda as Executive Director?
HT: We are currently reviewing SIWI’s strategic direction. It’s important to ensure that the organization remains relevant and future-ready—operating in the right context and in the most impactful way possible. We will certainly be calling on our partners for their views and input to help us along this journey.
At the same time, our daily work continues at full speed. We’re delivering on ongoing projects and programmes, preparing for this year’s World Water Week in August, engaging in key international processes, and continuing our research and development efforts.
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