“When you find the solution, the problem appears simple.”

My approach to consulting is anchored in the philosophy that the client must truly be better off after the engagement. Consultants are engaged because clients have problems they cannot solve by themselves. Solutions can be reached through rapid and accurate analysis, reducing the issues to their essential elements, exploring viable alternatives, and most importantly taking appropriate action to change behavior and lead to improved results. Simplifying rather than complicating the client’s life.

My approach incorporates:

  • First-hand comparative experience across cultures and industries
  • Recognizing interdependence
  • A process approach proven in the field
  • A hands-on, action orientation focused on outcomes and results
  • Understanding the perspective of the end user
  • Maximum local engagement to achieve ownership
  • Facilitation and interaction with the client
  • Continuous improvement
  • Quality assurance and objective measurement, incorporating measurement systems into processes
  • Awareness of worldwide best practice
  • Use of the latest appropriate technologies

None of these elements are unique in themselves, but the combination of these elements backed by a wealth of international experience gives me an insightful perspective on business and economic problems that can be beneficial to a wide range of stakeholders.

Industries

Industries Served

With an excellent grasp of the operating economics of both manufacturing and service sectors, I have improved performance and developed markt systems and value chains across a broad range of industries, including:

  • Agribusiness and food
  • Automotive and transport
  • Banking and financial services
  • Chemicals and petrochemicals
  • Construction and construction materials
  • Consumer products
  • Healthcare
  • Information and communication technologies (ICT)
  • Oil, gas, and energy
  • Packaging
  • Steel
  • Tourism

Representative Projects

  • Implementing services to over 1,200 SMEs across a broad range of industries through a network of 14 business development centers in 5 countries with 265 national and international staff, after restructuring an underperforming program;
  • Leading the development of the Government’s non-oil industrial strategy for a major Middle Eastern oil producer;
  • Assessing the economic impact of large scale (up to $1BB+) privatizations in banks, ports, oil and gas, petrochemicals, transportation equipment, and steel for an African nation;
  • Facilitating a private sector development strategy for a Caribbean nation dependent on tourism, education, and financial services in the wake of the 2008-2009 financial tsunami;
  • Setting up a local supplier development initiative for a leading transnational energy company;
  • Turning around a moribund steel mill and returning it to profitability within a short time (see case study for details);
  • Assisting a credit provider with diagnostic and remedial work on an extensive portfolio of nonperforming loans;
  • Applying the M4P or “Making Markets Work for the Poor” approach to employment and income growth in the construction sector supply chain for the first time; and
  • Providing proof of concept to a major Western government about using the M4P approach in its programs supporting healthcare in Africa.

Education

Master of Business Administration (MBA), The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania

Concentration in Finance, corporate finance specialization. Advanced Study Project (Master’s thesis) awarded Distinguished grade.

The Wharton School is ranked the #1 global MBA program by The Financial Times.

Bachelor of Arts /Ars Bacheloris (AB), Magna cum Laude, Harvard University

Major in Social Anthropology. Elected to Phi Beta Kappa. Three Harvard Scholarships for outstanding academic achievement.

Program on Negotiation at Harvard Law School

Creating and Managing International Relationships; Program for Senior Executives.

The Springfield Centre, UK

Making Markets Work programme.