Macroeconomic/Sector Reform and Development Assistance Planning, Management and Evaluation

What we do:

• Country/sector socio-economic assessments and reform program preparation

• Technical assistance, public investment and budget planning, management and evaluation including management system development

• Establish linkages between medium term policies/plans/strategies and medium term budgets so that activities are costed, implementable and achievable

• Public financial management strengthening, especially medium term budgeting

• Economic and reform program monitoring and impact evaluation system development

• External assistance program and project design and evaluation

• Private sector development programming and implementation

   

  UNDP/Ukraine Country Programme Evaluation, Independent Evaluation Office, UNDP 5-12/21). Worked as part of an IEO team to evaluate UNDP/Ukraine’s 2018-22 Country Programme. Responsible for evaluating the Inclusive Development and Recovery and Peacebuilding portfolio. The portfolio included recovery, development and peacebuilding efforts given the conflict in eastern Ukraine as well as inclusive development and economic empowerment activities across the country. Evaluated portfolio projects and their activities and programme management and support, inclusive of working with development partners, UN agencies, and government and civil society stakeholders at the national and local levels. The evaluation included findings, conclusions and recommendations, based on IEO guidelines, to help inform the preparation of the next UNDP Country Programme.

  Development Partner Country Programme Preparation, UNDP/Georgia Country Programme (7-10/20). Worked with the UNDP country team to develop and finalize the 2021-25 UNDP Country Programme. Provided inputs and reviewed the narrative programme, results and resources framework, Theory of Change, and monitoring and evaluation programme.

  Vanuatu Aid Management Policy and Implementation Strategy Preparation, Government of the Republic of Vanuatu and AustralianAid (8-11/18). Prepared the Aid Management Policy to help describe the Government’s aid management framework, structures, processes and interests based on international and national commitments. Also prepared an implementation strategy that focused on processes and functions of the main stakeholders. The preparation involved extensive document review and interview of government, development partner and NGO stakeholders. Also prepared recommendations aimed at institutional, human resource and process improvements to implement the policy.

  Mid-Term Evaluation of the Recovery and Peace Building Program for Eastern Ukraine, UNDP/Ukraine (8/17-10/17). Evaluated the recovery, rehabilitation, reform, development and peace building effort of the regional program in Eastern Ukraine (mainly in the Ukraine government controlled areas of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts). The program was a response to the conflict in the region that split the two oblasts with conflict still occurring and internally displaced people moving west, severe governance and economic disruptions, and social cohesion issues. The program consisted of 9 development partners and 13 projects. The projects began as individual efforts and were consolidated into a program in late 2016. The evaluation objective was to conduct a comprehensive evaluation to assess the extent program objectives were achieved, summarize lessons learned and contribute to future programming, policymaking and overall organizational learning by outlining recommendations for the next program phase.

  A Review of the Assessments of Papua New Guinea’s Public Financial Management System, UNDP (5/13-6/13). Provided a Public Finance Specialist to do a brief review of the Papua New Guinea’s (PNGs) public financial management (PFM) system based on previous evaluations, PFM-related reports, and past/current PFM development and reform activities. The assessment was to determine United Nation organization use of PNG’s PFM for project management and execution. This “macro” assessment was to be followed by a “micro” assessment of existing or potential project or program implementers.

  Assessment of Development Results Review, UNDP/Moldova and UNDP Evaluation Office (5/11). Reviewed and edited the draft ADR for the UNDP Evaluation Office and UNDP Moldova.

  Implementing Performance Based Management and Budgeting, U.S. Interior Department (initially) and Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) Government (6/03-12/12, intermittent). Provide the Performance Management Specialist and Performance Financial Specialist to design and implement a performance-based management system. Initially, the project was to assist with the compliance of the U.S.-RMI Compact of Free Association. The implementation effort focused on the Ministries of Health and Education and the Environmental Protection Authority and was the broadened to include all ministries on a staged basis. The approach was developed to assist planning, activity/fund programming, and provide ongoing monitoring and reporting.

  Strengthening Economic Management and Planning, Federated States of Micronesia (TA 4961 FSM), Asian Development Bank (7/09-9/10). Initially conducted an assessment of approaches to combine economic planning and public finance functions so as to improve the accomplishment of national and state development objectives. Worked at the national and state (4 separate states) levels. Developed and helped implement an Integrated Planning and Budget system and approach including the tailoring of a new budget module with a performance management tool. Conducted extensive training at the national and state levels. Also prepared a more coordinated effort for aid management and infrastructure development.

  Public Sector Reform (Public Finance), Republic of the Marshall Islands (RSC-COO451(RMI)) Asian Development Bank (6/10-8/10). Provided an Economist/Public Finance Specialist to assist the ADB and Minister of Finance prepare substantial fiscal and economic reform commitments for an ADB loan. The consultant also assisted with FY11 budget preparation to include estimating budget revenues, advising on budget negotiation proceedings and preparing the Budget Statement.

  Common Country Assessment Preparation, UN/Azerbaijan, 3-5/09. For the UN/Azerbaijan, prepared the Common Country Assessment (CCA). The CCA is a document that assesses the social, economic and human rights situation, identifies key ‘gap’ areas and serves as a key input into the preparation of the UN Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF) for the country (2010-14). Conducted full document review, interviewed stakeholders (UN agencies, Government, civil society) and prepared the document.

  Strengthening Aid Management and Coordination, UNDP/Government of Mongolia, (11/07-2/08). With the Ministry of Finance, responsible for preparing a new aid strategy for government and external assistance providers, drafting revisions to the Law on Foreign Loans and Aid, preparing an implementation plan for the strategy, and conducting human resource capacity building within the respective MOF units.

  Supporting Strengthened Regional Cooperation Among Pacific Developing Member Countries (PDMCs), TA 6379 REG Asian Development Bank (10/07-1/09). With the ADB and the Pacific Island Forum Secretariat, the team identified ways to refine and link regional development goals, objectives and activities to country development strategies. The areas covered included economic growth, sustainable development, good governance and security. The project involved all PDMCs. The four-person team also conducted workshops with national leaders (within each country and one regional workshop) to define common approaches to country and regional issues with an emphasis on linking budget and planning processes for more medium term planning and budgets to include regional commitments. Also identified a series of priority sub regional initiatives.

  Evaluation of the Netherlands Antilles’ Cooperation Program for Sustainable Economic Development 2004-2007, USONA/Royal Government of the Netherlands (3-7/07). Evaluated the economic development programs of the Central Government and 5 island territories (Curacao, St. Maarten, Bonaire, St. Eustasius and Saba) funded by the Royal Government of the Netherlands through USONA. Assessed executed projects and their impacts on sector and macro indicators and economic performance. The information was used for feedback on the present program and helped to define and refine the next stage of assistance as the island territories’ relationships within the Kingdom of the Netherlands were being redefined.

  Aid Coordination and Management Assessment, UNDP/Government of Ukraine (5-6/07). Provided the Principal Aid Coordination Management Advisor as part of an international and national team to evaluate the Government’s aid coordination and management organization, functions and capacities with the aim to streamline the organizational structures and develop appropriate capacities. The BGSI consultant was assigned the responsibility to gather, edit and refine the final report.

  Public Financial Management Macro Assessment, Royal Government of Thailand, UN System in Thailand (11-12/06). Conducted an assessment of Thailand’s budgeting, accounting and auditing legal/regulatory environment, systems and capacities to facilitate greater UN agency use of a common cash management approach using Government as the financial manager rather than managing and auditing funds by the different UN agencies active in Thailand.

  Medium Term Expenditure Framework Project, ADB/Government of Vanuatu, 6-10/06. Designed a Medium Term Expenditure Framework in line with Vanuatu’s medium term development strategy. Also developed processes, approaches and human resource capacities to update, implement, monitor and adjust the framework in future years.

  Armenia Education Sector National Human Development Report, U.S. Agency for International Development and UNDP, 6/06-11/06. Provided an Education Specialist to help a national committee review Armenia’s education sector and prepare Armenia’s National Human Development Report (NHDR) based on the review.

  Republic of the Marshall Islands, Compact Negotiations and Financial, Fiscal and Economic Advisory Services, ADB, RMI Government, 10/01-11/06; 6/09-3/11 intermittent. Provided the Economic Advisor, Budget/Financial Management Advisor, and Public Administration Management Specialist. The Economic Advisor assisted the government prepare for and conduct negotiations with the United States for the Compact of Free Association. This included initially drafting and contributing to finalizing the economic assistance program, designing a monitoring and accountability framework, assisting in deliberations, and helping to establish the RMI-U.S. Trust Fund. In addition, prepared and initially implemented a Medium Term Budget and Investment Framework to assist overall macroeconomic/sector strategy development and budget planning. The Public Administration Management Specialist reviewed the civil service system to create efficiencies and a more professional and career-development civil service system. The Budget/Financial Management Advisor reviewed the financial management system and assisted in improving budget performance.

  Albania, Economic Management Strengthening Monitoring and Reporting, UNDP, 1/04-11/6. Provided an Economic Policy/Management Specialist and Monitoring/Evaluation Specialist to work with the Council of Ministers to prepare summary ministry/sector performance reviews and assessments. First reviewed performance reporting information from a UNDP-Government Management Information System. Vetted information and mapped relationships to determine results and causative relationships. Summarized information in a graphic and narrative manner and worked with staff on information assessment for monitoring, evaluation and future planning/policymaking purposes. Prepared sample sector reports and analysis for 7 ministries. Ministries, Council of Ministers and Prime Minister used the reports for policy/sector planning and implementation monitoring/evaluation. Also advised on economic and aid coordination issues and worked with donors/government to streamline Albania’s economic and aid management which resulted in a new project document to streamline the Integrated Planning System and establish a multi donor trust fund to support IPS management and implementation.

  Country Programme Preparation, UNDP/Government of the Gambia, 3-4/06- Provided the Team Leader to research and prepare the UNDP Country Programme for 2007-11 and a Roadmap to assist in program implementation and reshaping the Country Office to make it more results oriented. The programme was focused on poverty reduction, social protection and good governance, enhanced cooperation between UNDP and UN organizations, development partners and the government, and improved implementation modalities. Also prepared the Results and Resources Framework complete with outcomes, outputs, partnerships and funding streams.

  Education Sector Planning and Financial Management Strengthening, Government of Tajikistan, ADB, 7/05-10/05- Provided the Planning/Financial Management Specialist to help improve strategy development and financial management of Tajikistan’s education sector. The Specialist worked with the Ministry of Education to develop medium term education plans along with a public expenditure review and medium term expenditure framework. The effort resulted in developing a medium term finance framework for the National Strategy for Education Development and applying to the World Bank’s Fast Track Initiative.

  Aid Coordination and Management Strengthening Project Identification, Government of Papua New Guinea, UNDP, 3/05-5/05. Conducted an assessment of PNG’s aid management to include functions, capacities and donor relations of the Department of National Planning and Rural Development (Aid Coordination and Management Division). Developed recommendations to establish management processes and procedures, management/staff skill upgrading, improved linkages between the Division and other government units, and the establishment of a Grant Management Database. Prepared a full project to implement the strengthening efforts. Also identified the need to address PNG’s overall economic management in a coordinated manner.

  Economic and Aid Management and Coordination Strengthening, Government of Macedonia/UNDP, 9/04-3/05. Worked with the General Secretariat’s Sector for European Integration to initially assess and advise on strengthening the government’s human resource capacities and institutional mechanisms for aid coordination. The approaches developed were formulated to compliment and assist Macedonia’s EU accession interests and refine its development and reform agenda, as well as address development and reform needs that demand foreign assistance. Worked at linking central government aid coordination efforts with line ministry efforts and developing collaborative coordination with the donor community. Designed training and provided advisory services on consolidating economic management and monitoring the respective activities.

  Mongolia, Improving Aid Coordination and Management, ADB, 10/02-1/04. Worked with mainly the Ministry of Finance and Economy’s Economic Cooperation Management and Coordination Department, to strengthen aid coordination and management to improve the targeting of foreign assistance, increase absorptive capacity and improve effectiveness. The team consisted of a Team Leader/Public Administration and Management Specialist and an Applied Economist/Public Investment Program Specialist with 5 domestic consultants. Also assisted the Government prepare for a Consultative Group Meeting.

  Turkmenistan, Socio-Economic Modeling, Analysis and Information Activities in the Ministry of Economy and Finance, UNDP, 11-12/02. An Economic Statistician evaluated the Government of Turkmenistan’s institutional and human resource capacities to perform macroeconomic and other economic/social statistical modeling activities. The activities involved reviewing Government data as well as that provided by the donor community and the foreign private sector. The Statistician recommended to the Government and donor community steps to help improve the modeling capabilities, improve the validity of information produced, and link information to policy responses.

  Papua New Guinea’s Poverty Analysis for Socioeconomic Development Strategies, ADB, 9/01-5/03. Provided the Economic Statistician/Poverty Expert to plan and oversee the conduct of a poverty-focused household income and expenditure survey and consumer price index survey. He was also responsible for directing or performing: preparing a poverty update, poverty mapping, tracking related public expenditure patterns, assisting in statistical capacity building, assisting the Poverty Task Force and formulating the poverty reduction strategy. The Consultant also managed the survey budget and was responsible for all related report preparation.

  Iran Project Identification and Assessment for Sistan and Baluchestan Province, , UNDP, UN Office of Programme Services (5-6/02). Provided the Sustainable Development Specialist to assist a UNDP mission in assessing the challenges confronting the region and potential opportunities for provincial development. The team identified: policies to be undertaken by provincial authorities to enable development; integrated strategies to enhance employment generation and poverty alleviation; alternative feasible solutions that could be cost effectively implemented as programs; and projects to achieve sustainable and equitable growth.

  Albania Economic and External Assistance Management Strengthening, Government of Albania/UNDP, 5/01-2/02. Assessed the Government’s economic management institutions and capacities. Prepared a project to establish an institution, processes and human resource capacities for an economic management unit to provide socioeconomic policy formulation and analysis and conduct monitoring and evaluation of Albania’s Growth and Poverty Reduction Strategy and the planned EU Stabilization and Association agreement. Assessed Albania’s external assistance management system to include organization structures, functions, personnel, legal framework and performance. Provided a strategy and project design to improve external assistance management to increase investment attraction, disbursement of received funds and the targeting to priority reform and development objectives. Also prepared UNDP/Albania’s first Resource Mobilization Strategy.

  Estonia Country Review, UNDP (9-10/00). Reviewed UNDP/Estonia’s programme, management, operations, and partnerships for the 1997-2000 program cycle. Responsible for all review aspects including document preparation and presentation at tripartite meetings. Also advised on UNDP/Estonia’s exit strategy. The review was presented to the UN Executive Board. It was especially important given the expectation that Estonia will graduate from UNDP assistance during the next programme cycle, one of the first in the East/Central Europe region.

  Romania External Resources Management Project Assessment and Reformulation, UNDP (9/00). Provided the External Resources Management Specialist to assess the progress of the project and to reformulate it to strengthen the Ministry of Finance’s aid management activities to include policy and procedural development, institution building and human resource development.

  UNDP Regional Bureau for Europe and the CIS (RBEC) Preparation of Country Cooperation Frameworks (CCFs) for Hungary, Czech Republic, Slovakia and Slovenia; Preparation of the Regional Cooperation Framework; and Reformulation of the Bureau’s Regional Programmee , and Regional Programme Evaluation UNDP (1/00-10/00 ). First, provided the Economist/Programming Specialist to prepare the CCFs (UNDP’s 3 year country programme) for Hungary, Czech Republic, Slovakia and Slovenia. Second, reformulated the UNDP regional programme for the RBEC region. This resulted in preparing a new regional programme project documents with an emphasis on specific components of good governance and socio-economic development. Third, drafted the Regional Cooperation Framework for the region. The Framework reviewed past UNDP assistance, identified the current regional context, and identified areas for UNDP interventions for the period 2000-03. Last, provided the Team Leader to conduct a program, management and operational evaluation of RBEC’s regional transition and development program for 1997-99. The program consisted of 7 major projects in governance, poverty alleviation, SMEs, external resources management, gender and environment. Evaluated the appropriateness and results of the projects; programme and project management; and specific programme and project operations. Recommended major organizational, management and programming changes.  

  Poland Mid-Term Evaluation of the Capacity Building for European Integration Project, UNDP/Poland (11/99). Conducted an in-depth evaluation of UNDP/Poland’s project to assist Poland to prepare for integration into the European Union. The project provided technical assistance to the Government and local authorities to implement EU directives. The evaluation included: project concept and design; project inputs, outputs and activities; and project management. Follow-up actions and a project exit strategy were also provided.

  Philippines Strengthening Public Finance and Planning of Local Government Units (LGUs), ADB/Public Administration Service (8/99-11/99). Provided the Municipal Services Finance Specialist to assess the devolving services to the local level; analyze LGU budgets based on service delivery and decentralization criteria; propose LGU Development Fund budget line items; assess LGU budgets, private sector and external funding, and congressional allocations for municipal services (particularly water and housing); and establish participatory dialogue with line agencies, LGUs, and their clients (communities, private sector, NGOs) on their needs and the LGU Development Fund.

  Solomon Islands Budget Review and Formulation, ADB (8/99-10/99). Provided the Performance Monitoring/Evaluation Specialist to assist the Government identify budget indicators for the 2000 budget cycle. Provided training to Finance and other ministry officials in budget formulation to identify and monitor these indicators on an ongoing basis.

  Uzbekistan, UNDP Country Review, Economic Assessment and Programming; Evaluation of Aid Coordination, Debt Management and Program Support Projects; and Aid Management Strengthening, UNDP/Uzbekistan (3/99-3/01). First, evaluated four projects: aid coordination and management; debt management; and two programme support service projects. Revised the project document for one of the projects into an “umbrella” project. Second, provided the Team Leader for UNDP/Uzbekistan’s Country Review. Third, provided the Macroeconomist and Statistician to prepare the UN Common Country Assessment (a macroeconomic assessment and statistical compilation that establishes a framework for UN assistance to a country). The Assessment reviewed macroeconomic and social sector performance and recommended improvements to UN data gathering and the Government’s statistical system and analysis capabilities. Fourth, assisted in strengthening the external assistance management system, including developing institutional and human resource capabilities to prepare a technical cooperation programme and management system. As a result, Uzbekistan’s first Technical Cooperation Programme 2000-2003 was prepared. Fifth, provided the Advisor to assist UNDP/Uzbekistan prepare its 2000-2004 Country Cooperation Framework. Sixth prepared a new programme approach for various project activities and combined them in a new Project Support Service (Umbrella) Programme. Last, prepared an assessment of the Government’s external assistance coordination efforts and prepared next steps.

  Strategic Plan for the National Bank of Vanuatuu , ADB (2/98-4/98). Provided the Asset Management Specialist to assist in preparing the NBV strategic plan. The Specialist assisted the NBV formulate business policies, set asset portfolio management guidelines, and introduced risk management policies, procedures and systems.   

  Nauru National Economic Reform Program, ADB (3/97-5/97). Provided the Economic Management Advisor to assist the Government identify policy and strategic options available for a drastic reform program.

  Cambodia Foreign Assistance Assessment and Future Stepss , UNDP (2/96-5/96). Provided a two-person team to assess Cambodia’s foreign assistance planning and implementation from 1988 to 1996. This included the start-up phase of humanitarian/emergency assistance to reconstruction/rehabilitation efforts. Recommended a transition to development and reform assistance. Provided next steps to establish a systematic development planning and technical assistance/public investment approach. Findings were presented at Cambodia’s first Consultative Group Meeting. A second project evaluated UNDP’s aid coordination project with the Commission for Development Cooperation and planned the project’s next phase.

  Regional Project to Strengthen the External Resources Management Capabilities of the Commonwealth of Independent States, East/Central European Countriess , UNDP (10/95-10/97). Provided training and advise to country governments on various aspects of external resources management including: reform policy framework development; technical assistance and public investment planning, management and evaluation; and debt management.

  Tajikistan Technical Cooperation Programme Preparation, UNDP (10/95-12/95). Provided a two-person team to prepare Tajikistan’s first Technical Cooperation and Public Investment Programme for its first Consultative Group Meeting.

  Belarus Technical Cooperation Capability and Organization Developmentt , UNDP, (7/95- 10/97). Advised the Government on an organization structure and system to plan, manage and evaluate technical assistance projects. Established a technical assistance database. The project gave the Ministry of Economy the capacity to prepare its own technical assistance programs.

  Technical Cooperation and Investment Evaluation System Development,, UNDP/Kyrgyzstan (5/95-8/95). Worked with Goskominvest to develop project/program evaluation mechanisms and techniques government-wide. Provided training in data interpretation, data analysis tool utilization and reporting methods. Prepared an evaluation training guidebook.

  Moldova Planning and External Assistance Development Project, UNDP (11/94-6/97). Provided the Senior Advisor, Database Specialist and Foreign Investment Specialist to assist the Government integrate market economy reform and economic planning with donor assistance and foreign investment. Developed a planning and technical cooperation programming cycle, methods to identify and prioritize projects, and a technical assistance project database. Moldova now prepares its technical cooperation programme and its evaluation annually. Provided training to Ministry and line ministry officials on planning and aid coordination, management, implementation and evaluation. Improved Government-donor relationships, including improving Government preparations for Consultative Group and other meetings. Advised on Foreign Investment Agency structure, role and staff development. Initiated an English Language Training Center for Government management/staff dealing with foreign assistance, and established a Social-Economic Information Center.  

  Lao PDR Socio-Economic Analysis Preparation for the Lao PDR's 5th Round Table Meeting, UNDP (3/94-5/94). Prepared the socio-economic analysis to identify and describe the Lao PDR's social and economic situation, development objectives and strategies, development issues and constraints, and future prospects. Also included proposed project listings. Worked with government and donor officials. Documents were presented at Lao PDR’s fifth Round Table Meeting.

  Macroeconomic, Sector and Policy Analysis in the South Pacific Region- Cook Islands Country Study,, ADB (10/93-11/93; 7/94). Provided the Team Coordinator/Principal Consultant/Macroeconomist for a five-person team to undertake the ADB's first country study of the Cook Islands. The study covered government administration and finance, social sectors, natural resource sectors and the outer islands. Responsible for preparing the report’s macroeconomic, private sector development and tourism sections and identifying main currency, budget, banking, government debt and investment issues.  

  Macroeconomic, Sector and Policy Analysis in the South Pacific Region- Tuvalu Country Study,, Asian Development Bank (9/93-10/93). Provided the Macroeconomist for ADB's first country study of Tuvalu. Responsible for assessing the public and private sector financial system, financial management and balance of payments. Identified specific budget, planning, banking, public/private sector investment and internal capital development issues and made recommendations.  

  Macroeconomic, Sector and Policy Analysis in the South Pacific Region- Kiribati Country Study, ADB (8/92-9/92) . Provided the Team Leader/Private Sector Development Specialist to lead a seven-person team for ADB's first country study of Kiribati. The assessment included an analysis of economic activity, the policy/regulatory and operational environment, and economic/social sector performance. The assessment provided policy guidance, development options, and economic forecasts. The Team Leader provided project management, and report preparation services.  

  Republic of the Marshall Islands Round Table Meeting Preparation, UNDP (5/91-9/91).   Prepared a socio-economic review of the RMI to be presented at its first Round Table Meeting with donors.

Private Sector, Trade and Investment Development

What we do: ">

• Corporate governance strengthening to achieve environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals

• Country trade and investment policy development at national and regional levels

• Trade and investment promotion agency/unit organizational and human resource development

• Export/import and investment marketing and assessment studies

• Business association organizational, human resource and outreach development

  Mid-Term Evaluation Strengthening SME Business Membership Organizations, UNDP/Ukraine (12/16-1/17).   Conducted the mid-term evaluation of this private sector development-oriented project to: 1) strengthen business membership organizations (BMO’s) in Ukraine so they can provide support services and help develop the SME sector; and 2) improve SME-government collaboration to identify and resolve SME development issues through improved communications and advocacy. Conducted a full evaluation per UNDP guidelines and identified findings, lessons learned and corrective steps regarding budget and activities for the remaining duration of the project. Worked with BMO’s, project management and staff, government counterparts, UNDP country office, Swiss development office (contributor) and other stakeholders to measure progress and help plan future activities to project end.

  Evaluation of the Netherlands Antilles’ Cooperation Program for Sustainable Economic Development 2004-2007, USONA/Royal Government of the Netherlands (3-7/07).   Evaluated the economic development programs of the Central Government and 5 island territories (Curacao, St. Maarten, Bonaire, St. Eustasius and Saba) funded by the Royal Government of the Netherlands through USONA. The programs included various private sector development projects. Assessed executed projects and their impacts on sector and macro indicators and economic performance. The information was used for feedback on the present program and helped to define and refine the next stage of assistance as the island territories’ relationships within the Kingdom of the Netherlands were being redefined.

  Land Management and Administration Project, Private Sector Development Program Loan, Government of the Federated States of Micronesia/ADB, 2/04-3/08. As part of the ADB Private Sector Development Program Loan to the FSM, fielded a team of 8 specialists to work with the 4 FSM state governments on reviewing and upgrading state laws, policies, systems, organizational capacities and human resources related to land management and administration. The project aim was to help make land a more viable economic resource for private sector development and infrastructure development considering the cultural and traditional demands of each of the states.

  Kuwait Port Assessment, UNDP, UN Office of Project Services 7-7/02. Provided a Ports Infrastructure Development Specialist to assess the operational and human resource status needs of the Kuwait Ports Authority. Designed two projects to 1) improve the management and operations of the KPA; and 2) develop current human resources and identify future human resource needs.

  Federated States of Micronesia Private Sector Development Program, ADB (11/99-2/00 and 9/00). Provided the Land Administration/Management Specialist and Vocational Education/Training Specialist as part of a team to prepare a comprehensive private sector development program loan that included private sector legal and finance aspects, land ownership and management, and human resource development. Also assisted in loan appraisal  

  Marshall Islands Private Sector Unit Establishment, ADB (6/99-11/99). Assisted the President’s Office advance private sector development and privatization. Provided the Business Law Expert and Foreign Investment Specialist.  

  Investment Promotion and Financial Sector Review, Federated States of Micronesia, ADB (5/98-10/98). Provided the Financial Sector Specialist/Team Coordinator, Investment Promotion Specialist, Legal Specialist and Information/Web Site Development Specialist. The project aim was to improve the domestic and foreign private sector investment climate by developing a coherent investment promotion plan and enhance access to credit through financial sector reform measures. 

  Cook Islands Institutional Support for the Development Investment Board, ADB (9/97-4/98).   Provided the Team Leader/Trade and Investment Advisor to establish the Development Investment Board. Established a management structure and operational procedures including a foreign investment review process, prepared investment opportunities and a marketing strategy, organized investment attraction missions, created a three year corporate plan, and trained management and staff in each of these activities. The Board remains in existence.

  Tonga Small Industries Center Expansion , ADB (3/97-4/97). Conducted a fact-finding mission and project design for the Small Industries Center Loan. Prepared an assessment of the Center’s expansion and privatization prospects.

  U.S.AID/Sri Lanka's Private Sector Development Program: An Assessment and Options , U.S. Agency for International Development (8/93-9/93). Reviewed U.S.AID's innovative private sector programs that were policy and transaction related including financial markets, technology transfer, agro-enterprise, private infrastructure development and private sector loan projects.  Reviewed the Sri Lanka economy's and private sector's medium and long-term prospects. Formulated goals, objectives and program areas for U.S.AID’s next generation of private sector development projects.

  Industry Skill Standards Preparation , U.S. Education Department, (2/93-8/97). Provided technical advisors to assist in standards development of the electronics, computer-aided design, chemical processing, advanced manufacturing, and agribusiness industries. Worked with teams of industry, labor and government officials to identify the human resource needs, labor skills needed for satisfactory entry level performance, and identification of training needs and sources. The program work done for the Best Manufacturing Practices Center for Excellence contributed to the Center’s program winning the 1998 Innovation in American Government Award, a prestigious award given to outstanding examples of creative problem-solving in the public sector. The award is sponsored by the Ford Foundation and administered by Harvard’s John F. Kennedy School of Government.

  Training and Technology Transfer Program Development, U.S. Trade and Development Program (9/90, 8/92).   Developed a training, placement and technology transfer scheme that placed foreign participants (managers and technicians) in U.S. companies and vocational institutions.  The scheme was to train foreign workers on U.S. equipment and machinery, transfer U.S. standards and management techniques, and develop ventures between U.S. and foreign firms.  The scheme was initiated in Hong Kong and expanded to other Asian countries.

  Market Access and Regional Competitiveness (MARC) Project, U.S.AID/South Pacific Regional Office (9/91-9/94). As a subcontractor to IMCC, provided trade and investment policy, program, capacity building and transaction development; and privatization assistance services to 10 Pacific island countries. Prepared a Trade and Investment Development Information and Education Analysis. Also prepared political, social, economic and commercial reports for 10 island countries, and developed the South Pacific Country Information System that is now at the East-West Center.

  Regional Private Enterprise Technical Support Services Project, U.S. Agency for International Development (1/91-10/93). Served as a subcontractor to assist private enterprise development in Asia, Near East and Eastern Europe.  Focused on the privatization, and trade and investment aspects of the project relating to private sector development.

  Trade and Investment Policy and Program Development, U.S. Agency for International Development (Bureau of Private Enterprise, U.S.AID-wide, 1/91- 6/91). Provided advisory services to the Trade and Investment Working Group appointed by the U.S.AID Administrator to determine approaches for U.S.AID's trade and investment programs and projects in developing countries, and determine U.S.AID's role in facilitating U.S.-U.S.AID client country commercial ventures. Responsibilities included reviewing U.S. government, private sector and foreign trade and investment facilitative services and information systems; analyzing U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service (U.S.&FCS), U.S.AID, and Foreign Agricultural Service domestic and overseas commercial development efforts; developing options and components of U.S.AID's trade and investment information system; and evaluating needs and options to provide trade and investment services in these newly-emerging countries.

• Public administration and civil service system evaluation, organizational development and reform

• Public sector planning and management organizational assessment and training with a performance and results orientation

• Government-wide, department, sector, project, program performance monitoring and evaluation system preparation

• Workforce skills and sector standard development

• Program and project monitoring and evaluation including ongoing, mid-term and final evaluations

   

  Final Evaluation of the Public Administration Reform for Georgia Project, UNDP/Georgia (1-3/21). Conducted the final project evaluation for UNDP and the UK Government. Evaluated the entire project including goal and objective accomplishment, project design and conduct, and OECD DAC evaluation criteria. Reviewed and summarized component activity and results, identified lessons learned, and identified short and medium-term recommendations for future public administration reform in Georgia.

  Mid-Term Evaluation of the Fostering Regional and Local Development in Georgia, Phase 2 (FRLD2), UNDP/Georgia (2-4/20). Evaluated the mid-term performance of this development project that focused on advancing decentralization of governance to the municipal level and advancing local economic development. The project was funded by the Austrian Development Agency, Swiss Agency for Development Cooperation and the Government of Georgia. Evaluated project activities and compared to original goals and objectives, assessed efficiency and effectiveness and other evaluation criteria including project management, financing and results to date. Identified findings, lessons learned and conclusions that led to a set of recommendations to help advance the project during its remaining two years, as well as improve government decentralization and local economic development efforts. Prepared evaluation report and presented findings to project sponsors.

  Final Evaluation Support to Comprehensive Agricultural Census, UNDP/Armenia (2-4/17). Conducted the final evaluation of Phase 1 and 2 of this project with funding from UNDP and the Austrian Development Agency. The agricultural census was the first of its type in Armenia and he UNDP component was part of a multi-donor and multiyear effort.

  Implementing Public Sector Reforms , Cook Islands (TA 7958 COO), Asian Development Bank (7/12-2/13). Providing the Human Resource Management and Organization Change Specialist to help reform the public service of the Cook Islands government. Tasks include improving the performance management system, a review of compensation and benefit schedules, improving transparency with the public, and creating a communications strategy to help implement the reform program

  Implementing Performance Based Management and Budgeting, U.S. Interior Department (initially) and Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) Government (6/03-12/12, intermittent). Provide the Performance Management Specialist and Performance Financial Specialist to design and implement a performance-based management system. Initially, the project was to assist with the compliance of the U.S.-RMI Compact of Free Association. The implementation effort focused on the Ministries of Health and Education and the Environmental Protection Authority and was the broadened to include all ministries on a staged basis. The approach was developed to assist planning, activity/fund programming, and provide ongoing monitoring and reporting.

  Public Sector Review and Improvement , Cook Islands (TA 7149 COO), Asian Development Bank (11/09-2/10). Provided a Public Sector Performance Improvement Specialist to conduct an assessment of the Cook Islands’ public service in terms of identifying a reform program to improve public sector performance. The analysis includes government ministries, agencies, and state owned enterprises.

  Strengthening Economic Management and Planning, Federated States of Micronesia (TA 4961 FSM), Asian Development Bank (7/09-9/10). Initially conducted an assessment of approaches to combine economic planning and public finance functions so as to improve the accomplishment of national and state development objectives. Worked at the national and state (4 separate states) levels. Developed and helped implement an Integrated Planning and Budget system and approach including the tailoring of a new budget module with a performance management tool. Conducted extensive training at the national and state levels. Also prepared a more coordinated effort for aid management and infrastructure development.

  Public Administration Reform , State Commission Office for Public Sector Reform, PRC and UNDP, 9/06. Provided a speaker for the International Seminar on Reform and Development of Public Sector Units. Delivered a speech on public administration in the United States, worldwide public administration reform and development practices, and lessons learned. The emphasis was on the health and education sectors and developing China’s non-governmental service units.

  Timor Leste Civil Service Pay and Compensation Reform, UNDP/Timor Leste, 1/06-5/06. Provided the Senior Consultant to work with the government (including the Cabinet) and donors to prepare options for pay and compensation improvements and prepare draft regulations and procedures to implement policies related to civil service pay and career structures.

  Albania, Economic Management Strengthening Monitoring and Reporting, UNDP, 1/04-11/6. Provided an Economic Policy/Management Specialist and Monitoring/Evaluation Specialist to work with the Council of Ministers to prepare summary ministry/sector performance reviews and assessments. First reviewed performance reporting information from a UNDP-Government Management Information System. Vetted information and mapped relationships to determine results and causative relationships. Summarized information in a graphic and narrative manner and worked with staff on information assessment for monitoring, evaluation and future planning/policymaking purposes. Prepared sample sector reports and analysis for 7 ministries. Ministries, Council of Ministers and Prime Minister used the reports for policy/sector planning and implementation monitoring/evaluation. Also advised on economic and aid coordination issues and worked with donors/government to streamline Albania’s economic and aid management which resulted in a new project document to streamline the Integrated Planning System and establish a multi donor trust fund to support IPS management and implementation.

  Papua New Guinea National Parliament Parliamentary Service Reform, UNDP/Papua New Guinea, 1-3/06. Assessed the organization, manpower allocations, qualifications and needs of the National Parliament’s Parliamentary Service. Provided options to improve the Parliamentary Service in terms of: training, retrenchment packages, incentive packages, micro-credit for entrepreneurs, and vertical and lateral movement of staff. Drafted a project proposal to implement recommendations.

  Education Sector Planning and Financial Management Strengthening, Government of Tajikistan, ADB, 7/05-10/05- Provided the Planning/Financial Management Specialist to help improve strategy development and financial management of Tajikistan’s education sector. The Specialist worked with the Ministry of Education to develop medium term education plans along with a public expenditure review and medium term expenditure framework. The effort resulted in developing a medium term finance framework for the National Strategy for Education Development and applying to the World Bank’s Fast Track Initiative.

  Restructuring of Civil Service Remuneration , Government of Madagascar/UNDP, (12/04). Reviewed the current remuneration system for government civil servants as well as the new elements emerging from recent studies undertaken by the Ministry of Civil Service. Provided advice and observations for the necessary restructuring of the system to adjust it to other civil service reform. The review considered the concept of general and individualized result and performance standards, the recorded and expected economic performances and the macroeconomic framework. 

  Governance Reform Programme Design, Government of Romania/UNDP, 2/04-3/04. Prepared a Public Administration Reform Assessment and Strategy for UNDP and the Government. The assessment included a review of policy formulation, assessment, coordination and monitoring; fiscal/finance policy formulation; public administration reform oversight including civil service reform; and broadening e-government activities. Prepared a UNDP-Government-Donor strategy (2004-07) for interventions to consolidate policy making, assessment and monitoring; conduct fiscal policy assessment and monitoring; reorient a ministry, amongst other future activities.

  Career Counseling and Skills Development for Administrative Employees, U.S. Federal Labor Relations Authority, 10/01-1/02 Worked with FLRA administrative employees to assess their skills and career interests and provide counseling and training to meet interest and career goals.

  Governance and Poverty Linkage at the Sector Level, Regional Study, ADB (10/00). Prepared the framework for this Asia regional study to assess the linkages of governance efforts on poverty reduction at the sector level. The strategy included identifying criteria for country, sector/sub sector and project selection; study performance indicators; and medium-term impact indicators.

  Kiribati Public Sector Reform Project, ADB (8/00-6/01).  Provided the Public Sector Reform Specialist to assist the Government identify public sector human resource and organizational reforms to modernize the public sector by making it more efficient and responsive. Worked with the Public Service Office, departments and senior officials to build consensus for the reforms.

  Pilot Public Administration Reform Project for the City of Hai Phong, Vietnam, UNDP (2-3/00). Provided the Project Appraisal Specialist to train local government officials in determining, assessing and planning infrastructure and other development projects. Designed appraisal system, prepared system manuals and designed and presented training to local officials.

  Institutional Support to the Central Agencies for Vanuatu’s Comprehensive Reform Program, ADB (9/98-5/99). P rovided the Monitoring/Impact Evaluation Specialist to establish a monitoring and impact evaluation system throughout the government. The system measures the impact of economic reforms on economic performance and vulnerable groups. The system was developed with the government and training provided so as to have an ongoing system.

  Sri Lanka Strengthening Project Performance Evaluation Capability of the Ministry of Plan Implementation, Ethnic Affairs and National Integration, ADB (8/97-1/98). Provided the Team Leader/Institution Development Specialist to prepare and implement a project performance management system (PPMS) within the Government. Responsible for project management, system design and implementation, and training.

  Qatar Civil Service Bureau Economic and Management Support, UNDP/Government of Qatar (8/95-12/95).  Strengthened the Civil Service Bureau’s functions and enhanced its ability to facilitate performance and efficiency improvements in the ministries and public agencies.  Provided the Personnel Systems and Management Specialist.

  Youth Policy Formulation , Marshall Islands Ministry of Social Services/UNDP (6/95-7/95) .  With the Social Services Secretary, assessed youth issues and policies, and developed education, training, employment, and recreation options.

  Social Policy Formulation , (11/94-12/94).  Assisted the Ministry and the South Pacific Commission prepare and implement a National Policy for Women.

  Labor Skill and Wage Study, Republic of Palau, Office of the President (2/95-4/95).   Assisted the Government determine the labor policy, regulatory and minimum wage environment by assessing Palau's public and private sector labor and wage situation and comparing to 6 surrounding countries. Comparisons were made of fringe benefits, salaries, education and skill levels. Conclusions were drawn on wages (public service and minimum wage), education policy, business development, labor immigration and emigration, and employee motivation.

  Turkey Education Training Project, World Bank (2/94-3/95). Assisted in organizing and coordinating visits of Turkey education officials in Washington D.C. The visits exposed officials to U.S. public and private education and training institutions, federal education management, federal programs and the policy formulation process at the national level.  

  Republic of the Marshall Islands Civil Service Reform Project , World Bank (9/93-1/94) and UNDP (2/94-12/94) . Provided a Civil Service Reform/Human Resource Development Specialist to reform the national civil service system. Reviewed position descriptions, job classification and wage scales, department organization, and potential for privatization. Prepared new position descriptions, position classification system and a new wage scale. 

  Industry Skill Standards Preparation , U.S. Education Department, (2/93-8/97). Provided technical advisors to assist in standards development of the electronics, computer-aided design, chemical processing, advanced manufacturing, and agribusiness industries. Worked with teams of industry, labor and government officials to identify the human resource needs, labor skills needed for satisfactory entry level performance, and identification of training needs and sources. The program work done for the Best Manufacturing Practices Center for Excellence contributed to the Center’s program winning the 1998 Innovation in American Government Award, a prestigious award given to outstanding examples of creative problem-solving in the public sector. The award is sponsored by the Ford Foundation and administered by Harvard’s John F. Kennedy School of Government.

  Training and Technology Transfer Program Development, U.S. Trade and Development Program (9/90, 8/92).   Developed a training, placement and technology transfer scheme that placed foreign participants (managers and technicians) in U.S. companies and vocational institutions.   The scheme was to train foreign workers on U.S. equipment and machinery, transfer U.S. standards and management techniques, and develop ventures between U.S. and foreign firms.   The scheme was initiated in Hong Kong and expanded to other Asian countries.

  Public Sector Management and Decision Making Development, Belize, Belize Institute of Management, U.S.AID/Belize (6/92, 8/94) . Conducted management seminars on team building, decision making, planning and evaluation.

  Title III Program Evaluation, Micronesian Occupational College (10/90, 10/91). Performed the first and second year evaluation of this U.S. Education Department-funded $2.5 million five- year project aimed at institutional, program and capability development college-wide. Evaluation included project implementation, goal achievement, management and finance.  Made major structural program recommendations to improve program performance.

  Developing Planning, Management and Evaluation Processes and Capabilities. (7/90-6/91). Provided a team of three organizational and management specialists to develop and implement college-wide planning, management and evaluation processes, and a new organizational structure. The college implemented the processes and recommendations. The reorganization plan was phased in over 2 years.

   

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Sovereign Wealth Fund/Country Trust Fund Assessment and Governance and Accountability System Development

What we do:

• Conduct organizational and human resource capacity so the Fund has ongoing capacity to conduct performance planning, management and evaluation

• Assess and develop, as needed, Fund governance to strengthen fiduciary responsibility, increase accountability and improve transparency

• Assess environment, social and governance (ESG) interests, provide necessary education and provide objective advice to fulfill Board interests

• Review the Fund’s Annual Report to determine if responsive to target audience and the public’s information needs and improve, as needed, Annual Reporting process and document

• Prepare distribution planning documents on an annual and medium term basis

• Create a Risk Analysis Framework and Selection Criteria for Fund expenditure to ensure funds are provided to sustainable end-users and purposes

• Establish Performance Management System so that ongoing monitoring and reporting can occur to provide feedback on grant or investment agreements

   

  BGSI Associates have worked on helping to establish one Country Trust Fund inclusive of Trust Fund structure, build and implement an administrative framework for two country Trust Funds, and establish a non-profit organization’s endowment.

The advisory and administrative services have helped in increasing Trust Fund and endowment governance, operations, savings and investment. The services have also worked focused on developing frameworks for contributions, investment management and distributions, including governance and accountability frameworks.

Establishing the Intergenerational Trust Fund for the People of the Republic of Nauru, Asian Development Bank, (11/13-6/16). Provided the Economics and Trust Fund Expert to assess the need for and design a country trust fund for the Government of the Republic of Nauru. Reviewed current revenue streams and determined viability of several of the streams over the medium and long term. Identified potential government of Nauru contributions to a trust fund and donor partner contributions so a viable income stream can eventually be produced to provide budget support. Designed a trust fund model with three scenarios for contributions and distributions. Also prepared a Trust Fund Agreement to provide the proposed trust fund’s legal, management and administration framework. Discussed the trust fund with government representatives at the senior and managerial level as well as with key donors as potential contributors. Managed RFP process for Investment Advisor selection. Facilitated initial Trust Fund establishment including coordinating initial contributions and investment policy identification. Worked with the Nauru government, ADB and Government of Australia on further implementation

From 8/16 to 8/17 provided a Review Consultant to the Intergenerational Trust Fund for the People of the Republic of Nauru. Advised the Trust Fund Committee members on trust fund issues (governance, strategic direction, risk management) and prepared and reviewed information for meetings; reviewed financial performance and compared to other trust funds; and contributed to the adherence of best practices and standards.

A BGSI Associate has served as the Executive Administrator to two Country Trust Funds. In this role, the EA administers the Trust Funds by providing executive support to the respective Trust Fund Committees in terms of organizing meetings, preparing discussion and issue papers, providing fund financial and performance assessments, preparing the Annual Report and periodic presentations, and coordinating the annual audit. The EA also coordinates and interacts on a daily basis with the Investment Advisor, Custodian, Accountant, Auditor and Legal Counsel, as needed. One fund involves 3 country governments and the other fund involves 2 country governments. The Funds are to provide distributions into the respective government budget.

Several BGSI Associates have conducted investment project analysis in terms of calculating Investment Rates of Return and establishing financial investment performance management mechanisms. Others have created project management and performance-based monitoring systems to insure government budget and donor grant funds are expended according to agreements and measure performance to achieve results.