Key skills and expertise

With 35 years of experience in civil engineering and international development, the expert possesses key skills in project management, construction, strategic planning, and contract negotiation. They have led WASH initiatives in crisis regions, developed strategies for NGOs, and managed large-scale construction projects. Notable achievements include implementing innovative WASH strategies in Iraq and Sudan and managing a construction firm with 60 staff. Leadership roles have involved developing WASH strategies, training staff, and enhancing community participation in projects across multiple countries.

Project experience and donor exposure

The expert has collaborated with international donors, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the United Nations Emergency Unit for Ethiopia (UNEUE), focusing on water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) projects. Involvement included technical assistance, project implementation, and capacity building within refugee populations across Ethiopia, Somalia, Somaliland, Kenya, Sudan, and Eritrea. The projects were regional in scope, addressing emergency engineering needs and infrastructure development in response to humanitarian crises.

Sectors and geographic focus

Worked extensively in the civil engineering, water, sanitation, and humanitarian sectors. Previously held roles such as WASH Programme Development Manager and Managing Director, focusing on project management, strategic planning, and infrastructure development. Work spans regions including Africa and the Middle East, with interdisciplinary expertise in integrating WASH strategies with food security and livelihoods. Responsibilities have included managing construction projects, emergency engineering, and developing regional WASH strategies. Extensive geographic experience across Africa and the Middle East includes significant roles in Sudan, Iraq, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Bangladesh. Projects in South Kordofan, South Central Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region focused on WASH initiatives and infrastructure development. Long-term involvement in Ethiopia included managing a construction firm and participating in emergency response efforts, providing deep familiarity with regional development challenges and cultural dynamics.

Languages and education

Proficient in English, used extensively in professional settings, including international development projects and collaboration with multilingual teams. This language competence has facilitated effective communication and project management in diverse and multicultural environments. Holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Honors) degree in Civil Engineering from Loughborough University in the United Kingdom, completed in 1989. This educational background has provided a strong foundation for an extensive career in civil engineering and international development sectors.