Paul Maassen started working with the Open Government Partnership in June 2012. He is the Director for Civil Society Engagement. Paul has a long track record in the role technology and media can play in changing people's lives and the societies they live in. Prior to joining OGP Paul worked as Head of Finance and Partnerships for WWF International' Global Climate & Energy Initiative, working primarily with WWF offices in emerging economies to strengthen the design and sustainability of their programs. Before joining WWF Paul worked for 7 years with Dutch development organisation Hivos, as program manager for the global ICT & Media program. This is where he learned the ropes of being a funder and got a deep understanding of the complexities of realizing change in developing and repressive countries. Paul strongly believes in the potential of individuals to make a difference if they set their mind to it and get the tools – including technology – to realize their potential. He was also involved in the establishment of the East African citizen agency initiative Twaweza. Paul attained private sector experience with Dutch telecom company KPN. He holds an MSC in industrial engineering and management.