Bill Shields – Management Adviser in Bougainville

Bill is no stranger to VSA volunteering having been working in Cambodia with Svay Rieng University as a Management Adviser for two years prior to taking up assignment in Bougainville.

What Bill is doing in Bougainville

Bill is working as a Management Advisor with the Autonomous Government of Bougainvile (ABG) in its Media and Communication Division. He is helping local colleagues plan and put together a new structure for the Division and arranging and undertaking training. He works mainly with Robert, the CEO but also with eight other staff members.

Making a positive impact

It’s early days but Bill says he has helped to complete the Business plan for 2012 and the strategic plan for 2012 to 2016. In particular he is pleased that the proposal for the restructuring of the Division put forward by him and Robert is now being used by HR as the example for other divisions to follow. 

Bill’s highlights so far

“I’m really enjoying getting to know the staff and what their hopes and aspirations are. I am also lucky to go to events and have spent a lot of time with the President of ABG and the Minister for Communication and Local Level Government.”

 “I love all the fresh fruit and vegetables available at the markets. They are really good."

What Bougainville has taught Bill

“There are several cultures and languages on the island so what may be right in one village may not be right in another village.”

“Get to know the people you are working with and establish relationships before starting to work with them.”

“Don't tell people what to do or what is the right way. Give them choices and respect the decisions they make.”

“It is expensive to live here so you have to budget carefully. It’s also good to stock up when things are available as supplies run out between ship visits.”

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