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.