Enhancing microfinance offerings

CEO's Messages

We believe that development is not a solitary endeavor
Chief Executive Officer’s Message

Muhammad Murtaza

It is an honor to share our story, our journey, and our vision with you. Since our inception, RCDP has been committed to creating meaningful change in the lives of marginalized communities across Pakistan. As a dynamic microfinance institution (MFI) registered as a not-for-profit organization, we have been steadfast in our mission to drive inclusion, development, empowerment, and sustainability at the grassroots level. Our beginnings were humble yet filled with determination and hope. RCDP, an offshoot of the Rural Community Development Society (RCDS), was founded in 1995 to address the diverse social, economic, and cultural challenges faced by underserved communities. Over the past two decades, we have grown from a small initiative to a leading organization recognized for its innovative approaches to poverty alleviation and community development. Our success is a result of the unwavering trust and collaboration with our partners, donors, and stakeholders, whose support has been vital in enabling us to pursue our mission with vigor and dedication.

 

Chief Executive Officer’s Message

Muhammad Murtaza

The landscape of development is continually evolving, presenting new challenges and opportunities. At RCDP, we have embraced these changes by diversifying our products and services and enhancing our microfinance offerings to better serve the needs of our communities. Our focus has always been on creating sustainable solutions, fostering innovation, and expanding access to essential resources. We understand that real change requires not only financial support but also capacity building, advocacy, and strong partnerships. Our efforts are therefore centered around integrating social, economic, and environmental strategies that empower individuals and strengthen communities. As we move forward, our priority remains to enhance our impact by reaching even more households, particularly women, who are often the backbone of their families and communities. Women’s empowerment is at the heart of our mission, and we are committed to providing them with the tools, knowledge, and resources they need to build a brighter future for themselves and their families. Our programs range from social mobilization and microfinance to health, education, renewable energy, and climate resilience. We are also deeply involved in emergency response, livelihood enhancement, and vocational training, ensuring that our support reaches those who need it most in times of crisis.

At RCDP, we believe that development is not a solitary endeavor. It requires collective action, partnerships, and shared vision. We have been privileged to work alongside remarkable organizations, donors, and communities who have walked this path with us, helping us to amplify our impact. Together, we have built not only projects but also trust, understanding, and a shared commitment to social justice and equity. Looking ahead, we are driven by the ambition to do more. Our journey is far from over, and we are inspired by the resilience and potential of the communities we serve. We invite you to join us in this mission. Let us work together to create a future where every individual, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to thrive, where communities are empowered, and where development is sustainable and inclusive.

 
Thank you for visiting our website and for your interest in RCDP. We hope this platform serves as a source of information, inspiration, and connection. Together, we can build a world that is just, equitable, and full of opportunity for all.
Chairperson’s Message

Ms. Ayesha Gulzar

Ms. Gulzar is a distinguished management consultant and Master Trainer with over 20 years of diverse experience. She has provided consulting services to multilaterals, development organizations, and global Fortune 500 companies across the US and Europe. Ms. Gulzar holds an honors degree in Management Information Systems (MIS) from the University of Connecticut and has studied Strategic Leadership at Yale University. Additionally, she has received training in social media leveraging and Social Entrepreneurship from Oxford University.

Her specialization lies in enterprise development and microfinance, with a focus on creating agricultural value chains—both hybrid and traditional. Ms. Gulzar is adept at leading, motivating, and mobilizing individuals, teams, and organizational change. Her extensive experience includes building effective working relationships and coaching senior executives to foster business-enabling environments. Her expertise encompasses organizational capacity development, requirements analysis and audits, process engineering, strategic planning, design, and change management, as well as communication collateral development.

Currently, Ms. Gulzar serves as an advisor to the OIC/IDB-ICCIA on agri-business enterprise development and value creation strategies. Her international experience spans the US, UK, UAE, Africa, Germany, India, Iran, Spain, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan. Notably, she was a speaker at the 15th Private Sector Meeting and the 7th Forum for Businesswomen, held in Tehran, Iran, from October 28 to 30, 2013. At this event, hosted by the Islamic Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (ICCIA), she presented a highly acclaimed paper on food security in OIC countries, addressing critical issues and potential solutions. Ms. Gulzar’s presentation in Tehran was met with considerable acclaim for its insightful analysis and practical recommendations on enhancing food security across OIC countries. Her work not only addressed immediate challenges but also proposed sustainable strategies for long-term impact, showcasing her deep understanding of complex global issues and her ability to offer actionable solutions.

In her role as a management consultant, Ms. Gulzar has consistently demonstrated her ability to navigate complex organizational landscapes and drive meaningful change. Her approach combines strategic vision with hands-on expertise, enabling her to guide organizations through critical transitions and achieve their business objectives. Her commitment to excellence and her capacity to deliver results have earned her a reputation as a trusted advisor and thought leader in her field. Ms. Gulzar’s diverse background and international experience have equipped her with a unique perspective on global business practices and development strategies. She continues to contribute significantly to the advancement of enterprise development and microfinance, particularly in agricultural value chain creation. Her work remains focused on empowering organizations and communities to thrive in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

Board Members

Ms. Umm-e-Kalsoom

Ms. Umm-e-Kalsoom is a seasoned development professional with 12 years of experience in managerial and leadership roles across national and international organizations. She has a robust background in the financial sector, having worked with two non-banking microfinance companies. Ms. Kalsoom holds an MPhil in Anthropology from Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, and has completed various certifications in microfinance and development. Her extensive training includes workshops, exposure visits, and seminars both domestically and internationally. She has also served as a master trainer with NBMFC. Currently, Ms. Kalsoom serves as an independent director on the RCDP Board of Directors.
Board Members

Ms. Umm-e-Kalsoom

Ms. Umm-e-Kalsoom is a seasoned development professional with 12 years of experience in managerial and leadership roles across national and international organizations. She has a robust background in the financial sector, having worked with two non-banking microfinance companies. Ms. Kalsoom holds an MPhil in Anthropology from Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, and has completed various certifications in microfinance and development. Her extensive training includes workshops, exposure visits, and seminars both domestically and internationally. She has also served as a master trainer with NBMFC. Currently, Ms. Kalsoom serves as an independent director on the RCDP Board of Directors. Through these initiatives, RCDS has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to improving the lives of marginalized communities in both rural and urban settings, empowering women, enhancing livelihoods, and fostering sustainable development at the grassroots level.

Mr. Naeem Shahid

Mr. Naeem Shahid is a highly motivated business professional with 18 years of success across various executive roles. Holding multiple professional degrees, diplomas, and certificates, he excels in grasping the latest technological advancements and managing sensitive issues with diplomacy and tact. His MBA in IT from BZU, combined with global business courses, including Managing Across Cultures from Harvard, Oxford, Cambridge, and Preston Universities, and Organizational Behavior studies in the UAE, underscores his expertise. He has also trained as a Halal Lead Auditor with International Halal Integrity in Malaysia. Currently serving as CEO of the Halal Foundation, Mr. Naeem brings valuable business management and international experience to his role as Director at RCDP.

Ms. Arooj Javed

Ms. Arooj is educationist by profession. She has working experience of 12 years with different School and at managerial & leadership role. Currently she is working as curriculum coordinator and master trainer with Progressive Education Network (PEN) she has completed Master in Social Sciences from Punjab University Lahore and certification in various development & education sector trainings. In additional she has done PGD in computer sciences. In addition, she has attended various workshops, exposure visit and seminars within country as well as abroad. She has also served as master trainers in PEN. She joined RCDP board of directors as independent director.

Mr. Abid Majeed

Mr. Abid has working working as Finance Head, Investment Advisor and Administrator positions in different companies. Currently, he is serving as managing director of a consultancy firm. He was awarded for best student consultancy for 2016 by the President of Pakistan. He travelled to Europe, Gulf, Canada and African countries to attend seminars, trainings regarding business, development sector particularly in relation to poverty alleviation and rural development. He has an extensive work experience in project management at national and international organizations, as a Senior Manager. Holding Masters Degree in Economics from Punjab University, Mr. Abid is part of Audit Committee and Credit & Investment Committee of Board.

Core Managment

Head of HR & Company Secretary

Rashid Ahmed

Mr. Rashid Ahmed joined RCDS in 2005 and has now transitioned to RCDP, its sister organization. He brings a unique blend of expertise in human resources, microfinance, organizational development, strategic planning, networking, donor relations, and proposal writing. Throughout his tenure, he has played a key role in all major projects and initiatives. Mr. Rashid has extensive experience in the corporate sector, including roles at Daily Nation and LESCO. His exceptional communication skills, both internal and external, have been critical to his success. He holds an MSc in Mass Communication, an MA in Political Science, an MBA in Human Resources, and an MPhil in Management from the University of Central Punjab (UCP).
Head of Finance

Usman Malik

Mr. Usman has served as Finance Manager at RCDP since April 2015, having initially joined RCDS in 2005 as a credit officer and steadily advancing his career in finance. He brings a unique blend of expertise in finance and operations management and has played a significant role in all major projects and initiatives within the organization. With both national and international experience, particularly in the microfinance sector, Mr. Usman is skilled in managing financial information systems. His strong background is complemented by an MBA in Finance from the University of Central Punjab, underscoring his commitment to excellence in financial management.
Head of Operations

Shahid Mehmood

Mr. Shahid Mahmood is a member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) with nearly 16 years of professional experience, 13 of which are directly related to Pakistan’s microfinance sector. Beginning his career at the grassroots level, he has successfully held various positions, including CEO of multiple organizations. His extensive experience and leadership have been instrumental in driving growth and innovation. Currently, he serves as the Head of Operations at RCDP, where his strategic vision and operational expertise continue to strengthen the organization’s impact and reach.
Head of Accounts

Muhammad Imran

Mr. Imran is the Head of Accounts at RCDP, a sister organization of RCDS, where he has built his entire professional career since joining in 2001. As one of the founding and pioneering staff members of RCDS, he has served in various capacities, including Finance Officer and Manager of Accounts in the Finance & Accounts Department. With extensive and diverse experience in financial management for integrated development projects, Mr. Imran has played a crucial role in the organization’s growth. He holds an MBA in Finance from the Virtual University, bringing strong expertise and leadership to his current role at RCDP.
Head of Internal Audit

Malik Imran

Mr. Imran Malik has been with RCDS for the past 10 years, leading its Finance Department. Since April 2015, he has headed the Internal Audit Department of RCDP, a sister organization of RCDS. With extensive experience in banking, finance, and auditing in the development sector, he has also served as CFO for Grant Thornton International and Chang Hang Ruba. At RCDP, Mr. Imran redefined the internal audit processes, fostering a robust culture of policy compliance and transparency. A Chartered Accountant (CA) by profession, he brings exceptional expertise and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards across all facets of the organization.
Head of PMER

Shamim Haider

Mr. Shamim Haider joined RCDS in 2008 as Manager of Planning, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Research (PMER). Over the years, he led the PMER department and was recently appointed Manager of the newly established Risk Department at the Rural Community Development Program (RCDP), a sister organization. He has been instrumental in developing the organization’s risk management framework and collaborates closely with Operations, Internal Audit, and Quality Assurance & Compliance for continuous improvement. With experience in project management, monitoring and evaluation, research, and implementation, he has previously worked with Save the Children, Sudhaar, and Children First. He led emergency and early recovery projects during the 2005 earthquake in Muzaffarabad and the 2010 floods in Rajanpur and Layyah, earning scholarships and participating in international training programs.

He has attended LEAD Europe Leadership Program UK (2013), Participatory Planning, Monitoring, Evaluation and Impact Learning in Netherlands (2012), and Monitoring & Evaluation conference Netherlands (2015).

Head of IT

Muhammad Tahseen

Muhammad Tahseen serves as the IT Manager at RCDP, having joined the organization in April 2016 after a successful tenure at RCDS, where he started as a Credit Officer in 2003 and rose to managerial positions. Prior to this, he worked with the SAFCO Support Foundation for two years. At RCDP, he has played a key role in establishing the IT department and advancing the organization’s IT functions. As the driving force behind software development and system upgrades, his leadership has significantly enhanced technological capabilities. Muhammad holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science from the Preston Institute of Management Sciences. He has attended LEAD Europe Leadership Program UK (2013), Participatory Planning, Monitoring, Evaluation and Impact Learning in Netherlands (2012), and Monitoring & Evaluation conference Netherlands (2015).
Asif Hussain

Muhammad Tahseen

Mr. Asif Hassan has been the Manager of Quality Assurance & Compliance at RCDP, a sister organization of RCDS, since April 2016. He joined RCDS in 2006 and brings extensive experience in liaising with national and international donors, government agencies, and grassroots communities. His expertise includes data collection, project reporting, and compiling case studies. Known for his exceptional internal and external communication skills, Mr. Asif has demonstrated a strong ability to manage complex assignments effectively. His work reflects his deep commitment and expertise in the field. He holds a Master’s degree in Economics.
Head of Trainings

Malik Shahzad

Mr. Malik Shahzad Manzoor has been working for RCDS since 2006 as Training Manager and Since 2014 he is also heading the Administration Department of RCDP. He has 16 years of experiences in Social Mobilization, Farmer Enterprise Development program and PMER, development sector, and also has worked as a principal in Punjab Vocational Training Institute (under Govt. of Punjab) and , Executive Board member of Vocational Training Institute. Mr. Malik Shahzad Manzoor is dealing with the Training manuals & curriculum and admin manuals of RCDP training processes along with administration policies and procedures. He has also National and International trainings exposure.