Key skills and expertise

With 17 years of experience, the expert specializes in governance, gender equality, and international development. Leading roles in global fund management, policy support, and program implementation, notably with the United Nations, highlight the career. Key skills include strategic visioning, evidence-based research, and complex problem solving. Successes include managing multi-million dollar funds, coordinating anti-corruption initiatives, and designing training programs impacting over 130 UN staff members. Responsibilities have included managing research teams and coordinating regional studies on governance and accountability.

Project experience and donor exposure

Career highlights include managing the United Nations Global Fund (DRT-F), supporting Sustainable Development Goals implementation in 12 countries. The role involved funding allocation, progress monitoring, and reporting results to donors. Collaborations on governance and anti-corruption initiatives with the United Nations Development Programme included coordinating regional studies and training programs. The work focused on enhancing transparency, accountability, and governance, primarily in New York, Colombia, and other international locations.

Sectors and geographic focus

Worked across several sectors, including governance, gender equality, democratization, and anti-corruption. Previously held roles such as Policy Specialist, Governance Analyst, and Research Coordinator, focusing on program management, policy support, and strategic planning. Interdisciplinary expertise includes integrating anti-corruption measures into development frameworks and promoting gender empowerment. Geographic experience spans regional and global initiatives, particularly in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Africa, addressing complex issues like conflict resolution and sustainable development. Extensive geographic experience primarily in New York, United States, and Bogota, Colombia, with significant involvement in Latin America and the Caribbean. Worked on governance and development projects in multiple countries, including Colombia, Sri Lanka, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Angola. The work focused on local governance, conflict resolution, and regional development issues, contributing to initiatives aimed at strengthening governance and promoting peace and security in diverse cultural contexts.

Languages and education

The expert is a native Spanish speaker and is fluent in English, with basic proficiency in French. These language skills have been utilized in various international roles, including work with the United Nations, where multilingual communication is essential. The expert has engaged in policy support, program management, and training initiatives, often in diverse, multilingual teams. Background includes a Master of Science in Conflict Resolution and Governance from the Universiteit Van Amsterdam, Netherlands, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and International Relations from Javeriana University, Colombia. Additionally, certifications in Gender, Peace, and Security from the London School of Economics, UK, and Personal Leadership from Columbia Business School, USA, enhance the educational profile.