Key skills and expertise

Bringing over 27 years of experience in Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL), the expert specializes in project management and systemic change processes. Key qualifications include drafting change theories, designing indicator frameworks, and developing data collection tools. Responsibilities have included leading MEL offices, advising governments, and managing programs for organizations like the UN and Commonwealth. Career highlights include conducting two meta-evaluations of the Commonwealth Programme Portfolio and leading evaluations for major development agencies. The expert excels in strategic planning and policy development, maintaining a focus on integrity and quality in diverse cultural settings.

Project experience and donor exposure

Worked across diverse projects involving collaboration with international donors such as USAID, FCDO, the EU, UNDP, and the Commonwealth. The expert's involvement includes project implementation, technical assistance, evaluations, and capacity building in areas like governance and economic development. Projects have ranged from national to regional scopes, addressing post-conflict rehabilitation, humanitarian aid, governance reforms, and economic transition. Geographic locations of work include Azerbaijan, the UK, and other parts of the former USSR.

Sectors and geographic focus

With a background in social development, standards and consumer protection, monitoring and evaluation, training, SME and private sector, and program and resource management, the expert has held roles such as MEL Adviser, Senior Adviser, and Country Director. Responsibilities have included project management, strategic planning, and evaluation. The expert possesses cross-cutting expertise in systemic change processes and economic transition, focusing on governance reforms and economic development. The geographic scope of work spans regional and country-specific projects in areas like Azerbaijan and the UK, enhancing interdisciplinary knowledge and leadership capabilities. The expert has extensive geographic experience across Azerbaijan, Barbados, Canada, Georgia, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkey, the UK, Ukraine, and the USA. Significant involvement in the former USSR has developed a deep familiarity with regional governance and cultural dynamics, particularly in post-Soviet transformation programs. Long-term assignments in Azerbaijan and the UK have contributed to expertise in local governance and development issues, enabling effective management and advisory roles in diverse international settings.

Languages and education

The expert is fluent in Azerbaijani, English, Russian, and Ukrainian. These language skills have been utilized in various professional contexts, including in-country work and collaboration with multilingual teams. The expert has formal qualifications in English and Theory of Translation from a Post-Graduate Certificate obtained in the former USSR, further enhancing their ability to operate in diverse linguistic environments. The expert holds an MBA in Engineering Management from City University of London, UK, focusing on System Science and Project Management. Additionally, a Post-Graduate Certificate in Management was obtained from Nottingham University, UK, with studies in Marketing, Finance, and HR. The expert also completed a Master’s in Science at the Azeri Oil Academy, Azerbaijan, specializing in Petroleum and Economics. Furthermore, a Post-Graduate Certificate in English and Theory of Translation was earned in the former USSR.