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About Us

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Contact Info

  • Chicago 12, Melborne City, USA
  • (+001) 123-456-7890
  • Example @gmail.com
  • Week Days: 09.00 to 18.00 Sunday: Closed

About Us

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We Created Africa’s First Public Sector Business Grading System

The grading system is also the first in emerging markets and was created out of a project that we completed for the World Bank Group

Advisory Board

Let’s Meet With Our Advisory Board Of Directors

  • Saveshen Pillay
    Saveshen Pillay
    Managing Director
  • Reitumetse Benedict Phiri
    Reitumetse Benedict Phiri
    Advisory Board Member
  • Dr Ibrahima Aidara
    Dr Ibrahima Aidara
    Advisory Board Member
  • Prof Daniel Cash
    Prof Daniel Cash
    Advisory Board Member
  • Adv Kerusha Pillay
    Adv Kerusha Pillay
    Advisory Board Member
  • Prof Anywhere Sikochi
    Prof Anywhere Sikochi
    Advisory Board Member
  • Dr Aurobindo Ogra
    Dr Aurobindo Ogra
    Advisory Board Member

The History Behind CRA Global Development

2008

SP Dynamic Financial Solutions CC Was Formed

The company was founded in South Africa as a close corporation to assist SMEs within the financial and business advisory space. This ignited the intent to assist SMEs and grow this integral part of the economy. We engaged in various consulting projects before being incorporated as a limited liability company.

2017

Incorporation of Credit Rating Analytics

Credit Rating Analytics was officially incorporated in South Africa in 2017. The firm began offering specialized research services to the private sector and introduced a sovereign advisory service to support governments in improving their credit ratings and financial resilience. Financial market development was a key area of focus together with debt management.

2018

Creation Of Our SME Division

Started exploring opportunities in SME development, identifying the need for specialized solutions to address funding and market access challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises.

2019

Appointed Advisors To The African Union & United Nations

Expanded the sovereign advisory rating team to meet increasing demand for expertise in public sector finance. At the same time, we began laying the groundwork for development focused advisory services.

2020

International Advisory Services

Strengthened partnerships with multilateral organizations, working as external consultants on various projects. Initiated deeper involvement in SME-related projects, including diagnostics and research on SME ecosystems. Worked on international financial market related projects

2021

Lead Advisors To The World Bank Group

Continued expanding our development advisory services while solidifying our role as lead advisors to multilateral organizations. Appointed by the World Bank Group to conceptualize SME credit ratings, marking a significant pivot toward SME development as a core focus area. Successfully developed and deployed an access to funding mobile application for the International Finance Corporation.

2022

Public Sector Grading Offering

Rolled out our public sector SME consulting solution, leveraging our expertise to create innovative frameworks for SME ecosystems. This marked the implementation of Africa’s first public sector SME grading system in collaboration with an emerging market government.

2023

Transition To CRA Global Development

Appointed as lead advisors to an emerging market country to create the world’s largest SME rating and grading agency, funded by a U.S. donor. This project reinforced our pivot to economic development as a primary focus, aligning our expertise with the evolving needs of SMEs and entrepreneurial ecosystems.

2024

Launched Africa's First Public Sector Business Grading System

CRA Global Development created the first public sector business grading system in emerging markets. Looking forward, the company remains committed to advancing economic development within emerging markets, empowering entrepreneurial ecosystems, and collaborating with governments and multilateral organizations to drive economic growth and resilience.

Why Choose Us?

Some Of Our Key
Consulting Achievements

Created three cutting edge solutions for the World Bank Group on how to improve access to funding to the SME sector.

Created a public sector business grading system for the Nigerian government (this is the first in African and Emerging Markets)

We have created an access to funding mobile application for the International Finance Corporation

Assisted the African Union with exploring the creation of a public sector credit rating agency.

Played a major role in creating a credit rating solution for the World's Poorest Countries during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Partnered up with senior faculty members at Harvard Business on research assignments linked to funding in Africa.

We have advised the United Nations Conference on Trade & Development on supply chain funding.

Advised numerous governments in Emerging Markets on various issues .

More Completed Projects

We Consult Differently

We combine technology with consulting thus providing our clients with a unique experience which significantly improves overall outcomes and customer experience. 

We recently created a mobile app for the World Bank Group showcasing our ability to incorporate technology to boost consulting outcomes.

Each consulting assignment is handled in a bespoke manner

We provide clients with atleast 50% more value than what is paid for

We are leaders in incorporating technology into consulting work

Learn More

CRA Global Development has operated from 2008 and was incorporated in 2017

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Ms Habiba Ben Barka

Chief Of Africa Section- United Nations Conference on Trade & Development

“The team demonstrated expert skills in public financial management, debt management, and the fixed income industry with a good understanding of repo markets. They also have the technical knowledge in relation to sovereign risk methodology development which can be beneficial to projects that require this specific skillset".

Regina Bamaiyi

Chief Enterprise Officer

“The team at CRA Global Development provided expert guidance and support during the creation of Africa's first business grading system. They provided end-to-end support and successfully delivered on the intended project. We would highly recommend their services to any other governments wanting to create a similar system."

Saveshen Pillay
Managing Director

Managing Director
Nationality: South African

Profile Summary:
Saveshen Pillay is an accomplished economic and financial advisory expert with a proven track record of driving impactful initiatives across Africa and emerging markets. As the Founder and Director of CRA Global Development (formerly Credit Rating Analytics), he has spearheaded numerous high-profile projects in collaboration with governments, multilateral organizations, and global institutions. With extensive expertise in SME development, economic development, credit ratings and financial advisory, Saveshen has become a leading voice in advancing innovative solutions for SME growth, sovereign debt management, and industrial zone development.

Educational Background:

  • Master’s in International Banking and Finance (Cum Laude) – United Kingdom (2011-2012)
    Focus: Corporate Finance, Securitization, Fixed Income, International Bank Management, and Basel III implementation.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Finance, Investments, and Banking – University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (2010)
    Focus: Risk Management, Investments, Portfolio Management, and Fixed Income.
  • Bachelor of Commerce (Economics) – University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (2009)
    Focus: Econometrics, Macroeconomics, and International Economics.
  • CFA Level 2 (Completed)

Key Achievements at CRA Global Development:

  • Designed and implemented Africa’s first public sector SME grading system, rolled out in Nigeria. This groundbreaking initiative supports SMEs in accessing credit and business opportunities, aligning with economic development goals.
  • Collaborated with global academic institutions, including Aston Business School (UK) and KU Leuven (Belgium), to develop innovative debt management solutions for low-income countries, enabling sustainable financing without risking credit downgrades.
  • Led projects for the likes of the World Bank Group, African Union and United Nations (various divisions)
  • Published a book, The Next Frontier in SME Ratings, highlighting transformative approaches for enhancing SME credit access and opportunities.
  • Banking experience in Africa with exposure to access to funding for SMEs and financial advisory.

Select Publications and Research:

  • Journal of Financial Reporting (2024): “The Credit Rating Agency Market in Africa: Landscape and Future Research Directions.”
  • Working Paper (2024): “Public Sector SME Grading System in Emerging Markets: A Focus on Nigeria.”
  • UNCTAD Report (2023): Contributed to the Economic Development in Africa Report 2023 on supply chain funding solutions.
  • IFC Global Survey (2022): Authored a comprehensive study on SME credit rating agencies globally.

Board Membership:
Independent Director at Care Ratings South Africa, a subsidiary of Care Edge Group, one of the world’s largest credit rating agencies outside the “Big Three.”

Key Skills and Expertise:

  • Strategic leadership in financial and economic advisory.
  • Research and development of innovative solutions for SME growth and sovereign debt management.
  • Deep understanding of global credit rating frameworks and economic development strategies.
  • Expertise in SEZ development and clean energy solutions for emerging markets.

Saveshen Pillay’s extensive academic achievements, innovative leadership at CRA Global Development, and his global research contributions underscore his unparalleled expertise in fostering economic growth and financial inclusion in emerging markets.

Reitumetse Benedict Phiri
Advisory Board Member

Role: Advisory Board Member

Profile Summary:
Reitumetse Benedict Phiri is an award-winning lawyer who headed up the the Africa legal support function for McKinsey & Company, he is currently the Founder and Managing Director of IusPrudentia Specialist Counsel, an acclaimed law firm headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa. With over a decade of expertise in strategic litigation, dispute resolution, and corporate and commercial legal counsel, he has advised on matters exceeding ZAR 300 billion across various industries throughout Africa. His contributions extend beyond his legal practice, positioning him as a thought leader on democracy, public power, and the rule of law in South Africa.

Reitumetse Benedict is a trusted voice in legal analysis, frequently sharing his insights on leading media platforms such as Talk Radio 702, Cape Talk, SAfm, Power FM, Kaya FM, Capricorn FM, SABC News, eNCA, and Newzroom Afrika.

Professional Experience:

  1. Founder and Managing Director, IusPrudentia Specialist Counsel
    • Provides leadership in high-stakes strategic litigation and dispute resolution.
    • Advises multinational clients on corporate and commercial legal matters across Africa.
    • Recognized for excellence in delivering innovative legal solutions to complex issues.
  2. Legal Career:
    • Formerly employed at Dewey & LeBoeuf (United States) and Fasken Martineau DuMoulin (Canada), leading international law firms.
    • Managed the Africa legal support function for McKinsey & Company, a global management consulting leader, for five years.
  3. Board and Leadership Roles:
    • Served as director for entities in mining, HealthTech, international student and cultural exchange, and the non-profit sectors.

Thought Leadership and Media Contributions:

  • A regular contributor of analysis on legal and political developments affecting South Africa.
  • Engages with audiences across prominent media platforms to discuss topics related to governance, democracy, and the rule of law.

Key Achievements:

  • Established a highly regarded law firm known for excellence in legal counsel and client service.
  • Delivered impactful legal solutions for matters valued at over ZAR 300 billion.
  • Recognized as an influential thought leader on legal and democratic processes in South Africa.

Reitumetse Benedict Phiri’s extensive expertise and thought leadership make him a valued member of CRA Global Development’s Advisory Board. His strategic perspective and commitment to excellence strengthen the organization’s capacity to navigate complex legal and governance challenges across emerging markets.

Dr Ibrahima Aidara
Advisory Board Member

Role: Advisory Board Member

Profile Summary:
Dr. Aidara is a distinguished economist with over three decades of experience in economic governance, development policy, and institutional leadership. He has held high-profile roles at the Open Society Foundations (OSF) ( serving as Deputy Executive Director ) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), where he spearheaded transformative initiatives across Africa. His expertise in governance, fiscal reforms, social impact strategies, and poverty alleviation strengthens CRA Global Development’s commitment to driving sustainable economic development in emerging markets.

Professional Experience:

  1. Open Society Foundations – Africa Office (2013–2024):
    • Deputy Executive Director (2022–2024):
      • Oversaw strategy development, social impact investment, and special initiatives across Africa.
      • Successfully led the transition of OSIWA into the One Africa Foundation, managing staff integration and legal restructuring.
    • Executive Director of OSIWA (2019–2022):
      • Delivered strategic leadership for governance, anti-corruption, and resource mobilization programs.
    • Manager, Economic Governance and Development Program (2013–2019):
      • Led initiatives in fiscal reforms, taxation, public resource governance, and climate resilience.
  2. United Nations Development Programme (2010–2013):
    • Country Economist, Senegal:
      • Conducted economic analyses and supported national policy formulation and aid coordination.
      • Advocated for human development concepts and resources mobilization.
  3. Oxfam America – West Africa Regional Office (2006–2010):
    • Regional Extractive Industries Program Coordinator:
      • Designed and implemented governance strategies for extractive industries.
      • Managed grant-making, advocacy, and capacity-building programs across multiple countries.
  4. Consumers International – Regional Office for Africa (2002–2006):
    • Public Utilities, Economic and Trade Policy Officer:
      • Managed research programs on trade, poverty, and consumer protection.
      • Coordinated regional advocacy and capacity-building initiatives.
  5. Ministry of Finance, Economic and Planning, Senegal (1999–2002):
    • Head of Section, Planning Department:
      • Contributed to the design and implementation of Senegal’s National Economic and Social Development Plan.
  6. Ministry of Family, Social Action, and National Solidarity, Senegal (1991–1999):
    • Head of Planning, Research, and Training Division:
      • Pioneered initiatives for women’s economic empowerment and gender-focused development programs.

Educational Background:

Key Skills and Expertise:

Achievements:

Dr. Aidara’s strategic vision, wealth of experience, and dedication to social and economic progress position him as an invaluable asset to CRA Global Development’s advisory board. His contributions will guide the organization’s efforts to promote impactful and sustainable development across emerging markets.

Prof Daniel Cash
Advisory Board Member

Role: Advisory Board Member

Profile Summary:
Prof. Daniel Cash is a renowned expert in financial regulation, ESG ratings, and sustainable finance, with an extensive academic and professional background that spans leading global institutions. He is currently a Senior Fellow (non-resident) at the United Nations University Centre for Policy Research (UNU-CPR), where he leads critical initiatives on credit rating agencies and their role in the global financial architecture. As a Reader in Law at Aston University and a former Fulbright Scholar at NYU Stern Business School, Prof. Cash’s work uniquely bridges the academic, regulatory, and practical dimensions of financial governance.

His insights into ESG ratings, credit rating agency reform, and regulatory frameworks align perfectly with CRA Global Development’s mission to promote financial innovation and sustainability in emerging markets.

Educational Background:

  • PhD in Financial Regulation – University of Durham (2016)
    Thesis: The Regulation of Credit Rating Agencies: An Analysis of The Transgressions of The Rating Industry and A Measured Proposal for Reform
  • LL.M. in International Business Law (Distinction) – University of Liverpool (2011)
    Dissertation: The Credit Rating Agency: An Analysis of the Significance of the Credit Rating Agency in the Modern Economy and Its Role After the Financial Crisis
  • BA (Hons) in Criminology and Sociology – University of Liverpool (2009)

Professional Experience:

  1. United Nations University Centre for Policy Research (UNU-CPR) (2024–Present):
    • Senior Fellow (non-resident): Leads research on credit rating agencies and their interconnection with the global financial architecture.
  2. Aston University (2016–Present):
    • Reader in Law (2023–Present): Focuses on the intersection of ESG ratings, financial regulation, and sustainable development.
    • Senior Lecturer in Law (2021–2023): Developed courses and research in financial regulation and corporate governance.
    • Lecturer in Law (2016–2021): Specialized in credit rating agency operations and impact.
  3. Ben McQuhae & Co (2023–Present):
    • ESG Ratings and Regulations Lead: Advises on anti-greenwashing practices, ESG ratings, and regulatory compliance.
  4. Fulbright Scholar (2021–2022):
    • Awarded the prestigious All Disciplines Scholar Award at NYU Stern Business School, focusing on business law, ESG ratings, and sustainable finance.
  5. Durham University (2013–2016):
    • Doctoral Candidate and Tutor in Law: Focused on financial regulation and tutored undergraduate law courses.

Publications and Research Contributions:

  • Authored over 10 books, including Sovereign Debt Sustainability: Multilateral Debt Treatment and the Credit Rating Impasse and Sustainable Rating Agencies vs Credit Rating Agencies.
  • Published numerous journal articles and book chapters on ESG ratings, credit rating regulation, and corporate governance.
  • Developed key policy proposals for reforming the global credit rating industry to address sustainability and inclusivity challenges.

Key Skills and Expertise:

  • ESG ratings and regulatory frameworks.
  • Financial regulation and credit rating agency reform.
  • Strategic advisory on sustainable finance.
  • Academic research and policy development.

Achievements:

  • Recognized as a global thought leader on credit rating agency regulation and sustainability.
  • Spearheaded cutting-edge research at UNU-CPR on the global financial architecture.
  • Successfully combined academic rigor with practical advisory roles at leading institutions.

Prof. Daniel Cash’s extensive expertise, innovative research, and commitment to sustainable finance make him an invaluable member of CRA Global Development’s Advisory Board. His contributions will strengthen CRA’s mission to drive transformative financial solutions and sustainable development across emerging markets.

Adv Kerusha Pillay
Advisory Board Member

Role: Advisory Board Member

Profile Summary:
Adv. Kerusha Pillay is a seasoned legal professional with over 15 years of experience as an Advocate of the High Court of South Africa. Renowned for her expertise in commercial and insolvency litigation, she has also established herself as a thought leader in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, diversity and inclusion, and leadership development. Adv. Pillay’s contributions to promoting sustainable practices and empowering women in leadership align with CRA Global Development’s mission to drive transformative economic and social development in emerging markets.

Educational Background:

  • The Wharton School: Certificate in ESG Risks and Opportunities (2022–2023)
  • University of Cape Town: Certificate in Leading Diversity and Inclusion at Work (2022)
  • Stellenbosch Business School Executive Development: Course in Women in Leadership (2020)
  • University of South Africa: Advanced Short Course in Business Rescue Practice (2016)
  • University of Pretoria: Advanced Programme in Insolvency Litigation and Administration Practice (2015)
  • University of KwaZulu-Natal:
    • Bachelor of Laws (LLB) (2007)
    • Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media Studies, English (2005)

Professional Experience:

  1. Advocate of the High Court of South Africa:
    • Member of the Johannesburg Society of Advocates and KwaZulu-Natal Society of Advocates since 2009.
    • Expertise in commercial law, insolvency litigation, and administration practice.
  2. Advisory Roles:
    • Advisory Board Member, Women in Mining Business (WiMBIZ SA): Advocates for gender inclusion and sustainable practices in the mining industry.
    • Country Advisory Council Member, Sustainable Mining ESG Chapter (G100): Focuses on ESG advocacy in sustainable mining practices.
  3. Editor in Chief, Affiniti Magazine (2022–Present):
    • Leads the editorial direction of a publication focused on empowering women and advancing conversations around diversity and leadership.

Key Skills and Expertise:

  • Commercial and insolvency litigation.
  • ESG strategy and advocacy.
  • Diversity, equity, and inclusion leadership.
  • Strategic advisory in sustainable development and mining practices.

Achievements:

  • Successfully completed prestigious certifications in ESG and leadership from globally recognized institutions such as The Wharton School and Stellenbosch Business School.
  • Serves as a champion for diversity and inclusion through influential advisory roles in WiMBIZ SA and G100 Sustainable Mining ESG Chapter.
  • Recognized thought leader in sustainability and gender empowerment initiatives across industries.

Adv. Kerusha Pillay’s expertise in governance, legal frameworks, and ESG innovation positions her as an invaluable member of CRA Global Development’s Advisory Board. Her leadership and insights will contribute significantly to advancing CRA’s vision of creating sustainable pathways for economic growth and inclusivity in emerging markets.

Prof Anywhere Sikochi
Advisory Board Member

Advisory Board Member
CRA Global Development

Profile Summary:
Prof. Anywhere Sikochi is an esteemed academic and financial expert with deep expertise in financial reporting, risk management, and corporate governance. With a distinguished career spanning Harvard Business School and now Syracuse University, Prof. Sikochi has played a pivotal role in shaping financial education and policy. His extensive experience in business strategy, financial markets, and sustainability aligns with CRA Global Development’s mission to drive data-driven economic transformation in emerging markets.

His work includes corporate financial disclosure, governance structures, and financial risk assessment, providing valuable insights into economic development and investment trends across Africa and beyond. His advisory roles with Harambe Entrepreneur Alliance and the Centre for the Business of Sustainability further highlight his commitment to entrepreneurial growth and sustainable development.

Education:

Professional Experience:

Academic Leadership:

Advisory Roles & Board Memberships:

Corporate & Consulting Experience:

Key Areas of Expertise:

✔ Corporate Financial Reporting & Risk Management
✔ Financial Disclosure & Governance Structures
✔ Investment & Economic Policy in Emerging Markets
✔ Business Strategy & Entrepreneurial Ecosystems
✔ ESG & Sustainability in Corporate Finance

Prof. Sikochi’s impressive background, research-driven insights, and global financial expertise bring a strategic advantage to CRA Global Development. His work will support CRA’s initiatives in economic development, investment readiness, and policy-driven financial inclusion across emerging economies.

Dr Aurobindo Ogra
Advisory Board Member

Dr. Aurobindo Ogra

Role: Advisory Board Member

Profile Summary:

Dr. Aurobindo Ogra is an accomplished urban and regional planning expert with over two decades of experience in infrastructure development, spatial planning, and sustainable urbanization. He has played a critical role in shaping urban policy, economic zoning, and regional planning across Africa and Asia. His expertise spans smart cities, industrial parks, special economic zones (SEZs), and geospatial technologies. Dr. Ogra has worked extensively in research, policy advisory, and technical consulting, bringing a multidisciplinary approach to urban and regional development.

As a professor and researcher, he has contributed significantly to the academic and professional discourse on urban resilience, governance, and sustainable infrastructure. His experience includes strategic planning, financial modeling, smart mobility, and the integration of digital solutions into urban ecosystems. Dr. Ogra’s advisory role at CRA Global Development will enhance our capabilities in planning sustainable, data-driven economic zones and industrial hubs across emerging markets.

Professional Experience:

University of Johannesburg (2009–Present)

Independent Consultant (2012–Present)

KPMG India (2009)

Infrastructure Development Leadership (2005–2009)

Educational Background:

Key Skills and Expertise:

Achievements: