Key skills and expertise

With over 28 years of experience in the energy sector, the expert is a leading financial and commercial advisor specializing in power and utilities. They have successfully led multi-disciplinary teams on renewable energy projects across sub-Saharan Africa, implementing innovative PPP structures and advising on IPP frameworks. Notable achievements include facilitating 160 MW of solar PV projects in Malawi and developing Namibia's renewable IPP procurement policy. Their expertise spans power planning, capacity building, financial modeling, and stakeholder management, with a proven track record in both local and international initiatives.

Project experience and donor exposure

Bringing extensive experience with international donors, the expert has collaborated with organizations such as USAID and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). Their involvement includes providing technical assistance and capacity building for renewable energy projects in sub-Saharan Africa. They have worked on USAID-funded initiatives like the Power Africa program and the IOM Somalia Scaling Solutions program. These projects focus on infrastructure development, particularly in renewable energy, and have been implemented in countries including Somalia, Malawi, and Namibia, with both national and regional scopes.

Sectors and geographic focus

The expert has worked extensively in sectors including energy, finance, and humanitarian aid. Responsibilities have included roles such as financial and commercial advisor, senior electricity specialist, and executive director. Their work is characterized by cross-cutting expertise in infrastructure development and innovative financial solutions, particularly within the power and utilities sector. Geographically, their projects span sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on regional and country-specific initiatives that address renewable energy and capacity building. They have extensive geographic experience across sub-Saharan Africa, having worked in countries such as Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Kenya, Malawi, Namibia, Somalia, Somaliland, South Africa, and Zambia. They possess deep familiarity with regional development issues and local governance, particularly in the energy sector. Their long-term assignments in these regions have involved leading projects that address infrastructure development and renewable energy solutions, demonstrating a strong understanding of cultural dynamics and regional needs.

Languages and education

The expert is proficient in English and French. These language skills have been utilized in diverse professional settings, including international projects across multiple African countries. Their ability to work in multilingual teams has been instrumental in facilitating communication and collaboration in complex energy sector initiatives. The expert holds a Bachelor of Applied Science with first-class honors from Canterbury University, New Zealand, where they received university prizes for top student and best all-round student. They also completed a Post Graduate Diploma in Accounting at Victoria University, New Zealand, which is recognized as a Master's qualification in accountancy, taxation, commercial law, and financial economics. Additionally, they participated in the EY Executive Program at the Darden Graduate School of Business, University of Virginia.