PolicySpark
Chris Callaghan is the founder of PolicySpark. With training in the physical and biological sciences, Chris’s early career combined field ecology and applied environmental problem-solving: biodiversity and wildlife monitoring, lake capacity modelling, urban ecology, and multidisciplinary ecosystem recovery work. He later held federal roles focused on ecosystem management, environmental information/data integration, and environmental compliance systems—before moving into public-sector audit/evaluation and, ultimately, a long consulting track supporting evidence, performance, and decision systems across government and the social sector.
Today, Chris leads PolicySpark’s independent research, analysis and advisory work for policy, programs and practice. His work brings evidence, context and analytical judgment together to help organizations understand difficult issues, strengthen policies and programs, and decide what to do next. Assignments can involve direct work with an organization or collaboration with a larger consulting team, including international-development work.
How I work
Independent judgment. I work from the question at hand, bringing a clear view of evidence, context and uncertainty rather than a fixed method or template.
Methods that fit. A focused review, an evaluation and a complex policy assignment need different approaches. The work is proportionate to the decision and the people who will use it.
Multiple perspectives. Where useful, the work brings together research, operational knowledge and stakeholder views so that important differences are visible rather than smoothed away.
Useful advice. The aim is a practical contribution: a stronger understanding of the issue, clearer options and realistic next steps for the organization responsible for the decision.
What clients bring Chris in for
- Researching and interpreting complex policy and program issues
- Developing and reviewing policies, programs and results frameworks
- Designing evaluations and making sense of findings
- Bringing evidence and stakeholder perspectives into practical advice
- Preparing clear reports and briefing materials for leaders and partners
Areas of experience
Get in Touch
Tell us what you are working on and where independent research or advice could help.
PolicySpark works directly with organizations and alongside consulting teams on suitable assignments.