My Years with the British Red Cross

Book excerpt: Sir Nick Young’s memoir is a fascinating and candid account of his thirteen years as chief executive of the British Red Cross (2001-2014). During this critical period he led the organization's response to the financial crisis, the Iraq War, the Asian Tsunami, the London bombings, a kidnapping, the fighting in Syria, media challenges, and numerous earthquakes, floods and other disasters. The author shares the strains and moments of fulfillment, relief and humor, as he played a key role in the response to some of the 21st Century’s most dramatic and dangerous events. His book paints a vivid yet modest picture of what is involved running one of the world’s best-known disaster response organizations, reacting to catastrophes, both man-made and natural, and saving the lives and livelihoods of those caught up in global disasters, conflicts and health emergencies. It is rare for charity leaders to reveal their insights in this way and, at the same time, paint such a vivid picture of life at the top of a large voluntary organization. The result is a compelling read, particularly for those interested in international affairs, the way charities work, and what makes them different from other types of world class organizations.