Written by: Katherine Haugh, The Convive Collective
People often ask us how we work. These are the principles that guide us—how we show up for our clients, for each other, and for the work.
1. We work with brilliant people who care.
We work with the best and we mean that. Convivers are at the top of their game in their industry (we call it “zone of genius”). Expertise matters. So do curiosity, generosity, and doing what you say you’ll do. We look for all four in the people we work with.
2. We earn our reputation every day.
We keep our commitments, communicate clearly, and own our mistakes. Trust is built in the small things.
3. We take rigor seriously.
Measuring the impact of climate philanthropy requires thoughtful questions, strong evidence, and honest interpretation. We make our findings clear and useful—and we’re open about what we don’t know.
4. We make working together a pleasure.
Our clients tell us meetings with us are the highlight of their week. We bring preparation, purpose, and energy. Everyone leaves knowing what happens next and who owns it.
5. We speak with care—and we say what needs saying.
We speak about our clients and colleagues with respect. When something isn’t working, we address it directly. Asking difficult questions and disagreeing thoughtfully are part of doing good work.
6. We love autonomy. And we take ownership.
Every Conviver sets their own hours and decides how and when they work. We coordinate with each other, keep our commitments, and flag problems early.
7. We work a maximum of 30 hours a week.
Including the CEO. We build our plans and commitments around that limit. A full life needs room beyond work.
8. Our lives outside Convive enrich our work.
Every Conviver has other client projects and pursuits. Those interests bring fresh perspectives, ideas, and energy into what we do together.
9. We fly solo, but never alone.
We trust each other to lead our work, ask for help, and share the load. When someone is stuck or at capacity, we work out what needs to change.
10. Serious fun is part of our business strategy.
We take having fun seriously. We bring warmth, playfulness, and curiosity to challenging work. Our team’s wellbeing comes first—we won’t sacrifice it to keep a client happy. We believe a happy, supported team does its best work.
11. We choose our work with intention.
We look for projects where our expertise can make a meaningful contribution, and partnerships built on mutual respect. Sometimes that means saying no.
12. Personal touch is part of our DNA.
We get to know the people behind the project: what matters to them, what they’re navigating, and what would make our work useful. We pay attention, remember the details, and make our work feel personal. Because it is.