Sam Coope

I’m Sam Coope, an independent social development consultant and executive and leadership coach, based in Harare, Zimbabwe.

I provide research, evaluation, political economy analysis, policy and programme advice, and facilitation. My work spans gender equality and inclusion, violence against women and girls, social protection and livelihoods, the sustainability of women’s rights organisations, and responsible technology and AI.

My practice is feminist, rights-based and participatory. I pay close attention to people’s experiences, the distribution of power and resources, and the institutional conditions that shape what programmes can achieve.

I bring more than 25 years of experience across consultancy, public policy and international development. Before becoming an independent consultant, I spent eleven years in social development advisory roles with DFID/FCDO, working in Zimbabwe, Nigeria and the occupied Palestinian territory. Earlier, I held policy and research roles in the Scottish Government.

I work internationally with civil society and private-sector organisations, UN agencies and other development partners. Assignments range from focused studies and evaluations to programme design, organisational advice and longer-term technical support.

I also offer career coaching and mentoring, including support through professional transitions. I draw on these approaches in capacity development work, including with Bread for the World’s civil society partners.