Key skills and expertise

With over 13 years of experience in international development cooperation, the expert has focused on sectors such as renewable energy, agriculture, and SME development. Responsibilities have included managing financial and technical projects, including loans and grants, and leading program management for over eight years, with four years in people management. Career highlights include managing a €560 million portfolio at the Council of Europe Development Bank and steering the SDG-Market Building pilot program at GIZ. Worked across diverse projects in the MENA region and Africa, demonstrating strong leadership and project management skills.

Project experience and donor exposure

The expert has collaborated with international donors like the World Bank, Agence Française de Développement, European Investment Bank, KfW, and the Inter-American Development Bank. Involvement has encompassed project implementation, technical assistance, and evaluations, particularly in sectors like renewable energy, agriculture, and trade capacities. Projects have been regional and national in scope, covering areas such as quality infrastructure and sustainable development. Geographic locations for these donor-related activities include Lebanon, Tunisia, Ghana, and the Middle East region.

Sectors and geographic focus

Background includes positions across key sectors including renewable energy, agriculture, environment, and SME development. Previously held roles such as country manager and advisor, managing projects and programs with a focus on sustainable development and agri-photovoltaics. The expert's interdisciplinary expertise includes integrating renewable energy solutions in agriculture and enhancing trade capacities for SMEs. The geographic scope of work includes regions in the MENA area, Europe, and Africa, where initiatives have successfully intersected with local governance and regional development challenges. Extensive experience in the MENA region, particularly in Lebanon, Egypt, and Tunisia, has provided deep familiarity with cultural dynamics and effective management of international development initiatives.

Languages and education

Bringing fluency in French, English, German, and Arabic, the expert has utilized these languages in professional contexts including international development projects and multilingual teams. Native-level proficiency in French and bilingual proficiency in English, German, and Arabic are complemented by beginner-level skills in Spanish and Farsi. Language skills have been applied across various countries, enhancing communication and collaboration in diverse cultural settings. The expert holds a Master of Engineering in General Agronomy from AgroParisTech, France, and a Master of Science in Economics with a focus on Sustainable Development, Environment, and Energy from the same institution, in collaboration with École Polytechnique, ParisTech, and Université Paris 10. Educational background also includes preparatory studies at Lycée Sainte-Geneviève, France, and a Jesuit school education at Collège Notre-Dame de Jamhour, Lebanon.