Key skills and expertise

With 38 years of experience, the expert excels in leadership, development strategy, and operational and financial management across sectors such as water management, food security, and climate resilience. They have managed international programs valued up to €160 million, involving strategic roles with multilateral development banks and international financiers. Notable achievements include initiating governance frameworks and leading large-scale projects in Myanmar, Vietnam, and Bangladesh. The expert has a strong background in natural resources management and has played pivotal roles in enhancing resilience and sustainability in various global regions.

Project experience and donor exposure

Worked across diverse projects involving collaboration with international donors such as the Asian Development Bank, CGIAR, and bilateral development agencies including KOICA, JICA, and DFID. Their work involved strategic advice, project implementation, and capacity building in sectors like water management, food security, and climate resilience. They have managed regional and national projects across countries including Myanmar, Vietnam, Bangladesh, and the Philippines. Responsibilities have included developing governance frameworks and enhancing international cooperation in sustainable development initiatives.

Sectors and geographic focus

The expert has worked across key sectors including environment and natural resource management, food security, urban development, civil engineering, water and sanitation, and agriculture. They have held leadership roles in strategy development, program management, and operational oversight. Their interdisciplinary expertise spans water management and agricultural R&D, with a focus on integrating climate adaptation and resilience. The expert's geographic scope includes regional and country-specific projects in Asia and Africa, where they have implemented innovative governance frameworks and sustainable development initiatives. Bringing over extensive geographic experience across Asia, Africa, and South America, they have worked in countries such as Bangladesh, Myanmar, Vietnam, Indonesia, Nigeria, and the Philippines. They have deep familiarity with local governance and regional development issues, particularly in water management and food security. Their work has involved long-term assignments and strategic roles in regions like the Ayeyarwady delta in Myanmar and the Mekong delta in Vietnam, contributing significantly to sustainable development and resilience efforts.

Languages and education

With a background in multilingual environments, the expert is a native Dutch speaker and is fluent in English, Spanish, and German. They have reasonable proficiency in French and are fluent in Indonesian, particularly during postings in relevant regions. These language skills have been utilized in multilingual teams and international project settings across various countries, enhancing communication and collaboration in diverse cultural and professional environments. Background includes positions at esteemed educational institutions, holding a PhD in Agricultural Engineering with a specialization in Water Resources Systems Analysis from Oklahoma State University, USA. They also obtained an MSc in Tropical Land and Water Use from Wageningen Agricultural University and Delft University of Technology, Netherlands. Additionally, they are pursuing certifications as a Certified Expert in ESG and Impact Investing and Climate Adaptation Finance from the Frankfurt School of Finance & Management, Germany.