Role: Lead Consultant- West Africa
Employer: CRA Global Development
Nationality: Nigerian
Profile Summary:
Ms. Regina Bamaiyi is a results-driven professional with over a decade of experience in educational organizations, enterprise development, and project management. With a strong background in financial economics, she brings extensive expertise in business coaching, financial quality assurance, and risk-based program monitoring. Regina is adept at fostering innovation, promoting entrepreneurship, and delivering capacity-building initiatives that drive economic growth and development across Nigeria.
Educational Background:
- MSc Financial Economics – Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna, Nigeria (2020)
- BSc Economics – Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria (2005)
Professional Experience:
- CRA Global Development (2024 – Present)
Consultant- Contributes to projects aimed at enhancing SME development and financial access.
- Provides expertise in business planning, financial analysis, and enterprise promotion.
- Engages in research and analysis to inform strategic initiatives.
- Chief Enterprise Officer, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) (January 2019 – Present)
- Manages small business project activities, including the development of business plans and financial analyses for startups.
- Identifies and promotes opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship projects nationwide.
- Plans, delivers, and evaluates business development workshops and seminars.
- Organizes industry-targeted events to foster technology transfer and entrepreneurship.
- Prepares and manages capital budgeting and expenditure planning.
- Provides training sessions on new business initiatives and monitors capability-building activities.
- Develops strong relationships with local, national, and international organizations.
- Conducts research and data analysis on project outcomes for key stakeholders.
- Senior Enterprise Officer, SMEDAN (December 2010 – January 2019)
- Sourced and managed procurement of consultancy services from MSMEs.
- Prepared feasibility studies and managed product development services for MSMEs.
- Supervised workshops and training events, overseeing speakers, tutors, and attendees.
- Developed professional development programs for SMEDAN staff.
- Led recruitment and induction processes for workshop and seminar participants.
- Served as Desk Officer for the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
- Project Coordinator, Equity Advocate Nigeria (Volunteer) (November 2009 – December 2010)
- Planned and organized project activities, ensuring timely and budget-compliant execution.
- Communicated with project partners and beneficiaries to maintain effective stakeholder engagement.
- Managed project budgets and tracked expenses.
- Conducted research on equity issues, analyzing data and reviewing policies.
- Assisted in developing advocacy materials and organizing outreach efforts, including workshops and seminars.
- Accounts Officer, Trustfund Pensions Plc., Abuja (September 2007 – November 2009)
- Maintained and updated financial records for the organization.
- Managed accounts payable processes and prepared financial reports.
- Prepared annual company accounts and ensured compliance with financial regulations.
Professional Training:
- 2023 – GIZ/SEDIN Training of Trainers for Financial Coaches (TOTFC)
- 2022 – Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) Agricultural Value Chain Programme
- 2021 – KOICA Policy Sharing Programme
- 2019 – Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) – Financial Access for Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion (6-week technical training)
- 2008 – Database Management (Oracle)
Key Skills and Expertise:
- Business coaching and mentoring
- Financial quality assurance and planning
- Education management and enterprise promotion
- Project planning, management, and evaluation
- Microfinance methodologies
- Leadership and staff development
- Research and data analysis
- Technical entrepreneurship advice
- Product development and innovation
- Relationship building with stakeholders
Languages:
- English: Fluent
Achievements and Contributions:
- Successfully managed nationwide entrepreneurship and innovation projects that fostered SME growth.
- Played a pivotal role in capacity-building initiatives and workshops enhancing business development.
- Developed strategic relationships with international organizations to support SME initiatives.
- Contributed to policy discussions and advocacy efforts promoting equity and economic empowerment.
Ms. Regina Bamaiyi’s extensive experience in enterprise development and her commitment to fostering innovation make her an invaluable asset to CRA Global Development. Her expertise not only enhances the firm’s capabilities but also contributes significantly to driving economic growth and supporting SMEs in emerging markets.
