Key skills and expertise

With 26 years of experience in finance and accounting, the expert is a seasoned Controller and Finance Manager skilled in financial report preparation and analysis. They have led international and local initiatives, achieving significant accomplishments such as a $60K annual cost saving and closing out 80% of audit recommendations. The expert has developed financial manuals and tools, managed finance teams, and provided strategic leadership in financial systems setup. Proficient in Oracle, Microsoft Office, and Dynamics, they have held key roles in NGOs across East Africa, demonstrating expertise in compliance, budgeting, and process improvement.

Project experience and donor exposure

The expert has collaborated with international donors such as the European Union, providing technical assistance and donor compliance audits on EU-funded grants in South Sudan. They supported donor compliance reviews for grant management with Save the Children in Kenya and Somalia. The expert's involvement included drafting financial manuals and conducting capacity building in financial management across regional projects in East Africa, specifically in Kenya, South Sudan, and Somalia, focusing on governance and financial oversight within international development cooperation projects.

Sectors and geographic focus

Worked across sectors including civil society, NGOs, administration, and finance and accounting. Previously held roles such as Finance Manager and Controller, focusing on financial oversight, compliance, and process improvement. Their interdisciplinary expertise includes financial management within development projects, contributing to regional initiatives in East Africa, particularly in Kenya, Somaliland, and South Sudan. Responsibilities have included strategic planning, team leadership, and operational efficiency, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of financial systems in diverse settings.

The expert has extensive geographic experience in East Africa, having worked in Kenya, Somaliland, and South Sudan. They possess a deep understanding of local governance and cultural dynamics, particularly through long-term assignments in these regions. Their work has involved regional development issues, focusing on financial management and compliance within international and local initiatives, contributing to their expertise in navigating complex regional challenges.

Languages and education

The expert is fluent in English and Swahili, languages used extensively in professional settings across East Africa, including Kenya, Somaliland, and South Sudan. These language skills have been instrumental in their roles within multilingual teams and in managing international development projects, facilitating effective communication and collaboration in diverse cultural environments.

They hold an Executive Masters in Business Administration with a focus on Accounting and Finance from Moi University, Kenya. The expert is a Certified Public Accountant, having completed their certification at Strathmore University, Kenya. Additionally, they obtained a Kenya Accountant Technician qualification from SPS College, Kenya, and completed their secondary education at Aga Khan High School, Kenya.