Returning to Asia and the Pacific – A Journey of Growth and Gratitude

Dear Colleagues,

It is with great pride and anticipation that I reflect on my journey with the World Food Programme (WFP) in the Asia and the Pacific region. This region holds a special place in my heart, as it was the starting point of my field career as the Head of Finance and Administration in Myanmar from 2016 to 2019. My time there laid the foundation for my passion for humanitarian work and gave me the opportunity to contribute to some transformative milestones alongside an incredible team.

During my tenure in Myanmar, I had the privilege to collaborate on initiatives that shaped WFP’s operations and strengthened partnerships:

• Hiring the first driver for the UN in Myanmar, paving the way for localized workforce empowerment.

• As Chair of the Operations Management Team (OMT), spearheading the implementation of the first Business Operations Strategy (BOS) in the country.

• Leading the opening of Myanmar's first One UN House in Naypyidaw and the first field One UN House in Lashio.

• Establishing the first banking arrangement for the entire UN in Myanmar, enhancing operational efficiency.
• Rolling out the first mobile money cash distribution to beneficiaries, ensuring timely and secure assistance.

• Launching and implementing Myanmar’s first Country Strategic Plan (CSP) and establishing the first Resource Management Committee (RMC) to align resources with strategic priorities.

These milestones were only possible because of the dedication and professionalism of the Myanmar team. I am profoundly proud of their resilience, innovation, and commitment to ensuring food security and operational excellence in challenging circumstances.

Beyond Myanmar, my journey in the Asia and Pacific region has allowed me to visit many countries, both personally with my family and professionally. Through workshops and missions, I’ve had the honor of collaborating with exceptional colleagues across the region. Notably, the Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific (RBB) led the way globally in implementing WFP’s Integrated Road Map (IRM), a monumental achievement that set a standard for the rest of the organization.

Returning to RBB: A New Role, A Renewed Purpose

Now, in my capacity as Chief of Donor Reporting and Contribution Management, I am thrilled to return to RBB for the upcoming Finance Workshop in Bangkok. This is more than just a professional obligation—it is a heartfelt opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, share best practices, and contribute to the next chapter of success for the region.

My goal during this workshop is clear:

• To empower finance officers across the region to leverage donor reporting as a powerful tool, showcasing WFP’s exceptional results to donors, partners, and host governments.
• To support country offices in strengthening their contribution management strategies, ensuring resources are optimized to achieve our humanitarian objectives.
• To facilitate cross-functional collaboration, enabling the sharing of skill sets and actionable steps that will enhance RBB’s collective impact.

I am particularly excited about engaging in discussions that highlight how strategic donor reporting can not only secure vital resources but also build trust and partnerships for the long term.

Looking Ahead

As I prepare for a productive week in Bangkok, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to once again work with the region that shaped the early years of my WFP journey. Together, I am confident we will build on the region’s legacy of resilience and innovation to achieve even greater results for those we serve.

Here’s to a future of continued collaboration and impact. I look forward to reconnecting, learning, and contributing to the vital work happening in Asia and the Pacific.

Warm regards,

Michael Hemling

Chief, Donor Reporting and Contribution Management

World Food Programme, Rome, Italy