Key skills and expertise

Bringing over 32 years of experience in international development and financial organizations, the expert has dedicated 15 years to project management and coordination. Key qualifications include expertise in SME competitiveness, export promotion, and start-up financing. The expert has successfully led projects valued up to EUR 12 million and organized more than 150 events. With substantial experience in supporting MSMEs in entrepreneurship and investment planning, the expert has also provided consultancy for organizations like GIZ and UNDP. Responsibilities have included developing national strategies and coordinating complex tasks, significantly contributing to Macedonian economic development.

Project experience and donor exposure

The expert has collaborated with international donors such as the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), and the World Bank. This collaboration spans project implementation, technical assistance, evaluations, and capacity building in sectors like SME development, export promotion, and foreign direct investment. The projects have been both regional and national in scope, focusing on South-East Europe, including Macedonia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, and Serbia.

Sectors and geographic focus

With a background in labor market and employment, micro-finance, SME and private sector development, finance and accounting, and grants management, the expert has held roles such as project coordinator, technical advisor, and quality assurance specialist. Responsibilities have included project management, capacity building, and strategic development. Cross-cutting expertise includes digitalization in employment services and export promotion. The expert's work has primarily focused on the South-East Europe region, contributing to economic development and sectoral advancements. Extensive geographic experience in South-East Europe, including Macedonia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, and Serbia, has provided the expert with deep familiarity with local governance and regional development issues. This long-term involvement underscores a strong understanding of cultural dynamics and economic conditions.

Languages and education

With fluency in English and excellent proficiency in reading, speaking, and writing, the expert also possesses basic skills in French. These language competencies have been utilized in international development settings, facilitating communication in multilingual teams and contributing to project success in various international contexts. The expert holds a Master of Business Administration in Finance with distinction from the University of Sheffield, United Kingdom, completed at CITY College, the International Faculty of the University of Sheffield in Thessaloniki, Greece. This advanced degree underscores a strong foundation in financial management and business administration.