Role: Senior Consultant
Employer: CRA Global Development
Nationality: South African
Profile Summary:
Zaakirah Ismail Halim is a seasoned economist with over a decade of experience in economic analysis, policy development, and strategic advisory. As a Senior Economic Analyst at CRA Global Development, Zaakirah plays a vital role in driving innovative solutions for sovereign ratings and SME finance access. Her expertise spans consulting, academic research, and policy advisory, making her a key contributor to transformative projects in emerging markets.
Educational Background:
- Master of Commerce in Economics – Wits University, South Africa (2012)
- Honours in Economic Science – Wits University, South Africa (2009)
- Bachelor of Commerce in Economics and Business Finance – Wits University, South Africa (2005)
Professional Experience:
- CRA Global Development (Mar 2023 – Present)
Senior Economic Analyst- Leads economic analyses for major initiatives.
- Plays a central role in supporting Nigeria’s SMEDAN project to establish the world’s largest SME grading system.
- Develops consulting solutions to address gaps in credit rating frameworks and create public sector SME ecosystems.
- Provides strategic insights and actionable recommendations to governments and SMEs, enhancing financial decision-making and access to credit.
- DNA Economics (Feb 2021 – Jan 2023)
Economist- Conducted economic research and trend analyses to support client decision-making across various sectors.
- Developed economic models and provided advisory services to inform policy development and business strategies.
- Standard Bank (Apr 2019 – Apr 2020)
Economist- Provided market analysis, economic forecasts, and strategic insights to clients and stakeholders.
- Produced reports and engaged in strategic planning to align research outputs with business objectives.
- National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) (Jan 2013 – Dec 2014)
Junior Economist- Conducted tariff assessments, market studies, and regulatory policy analyses.
- Supported stakeholder engagements and collaborated on the development of regulatory guidelines.
- Wits University (Jul 2010 – Dec 2014)
Lecturer- Taught undergraduate and postgraduate courses in economics, fostering academic excellence among students.
Key Skills and Expertise:
- Sovereign credit ratings and SME finance analysis.
- Economic research and policy development.
- Regulatory frameworks and market trend analysis.
- Strategic advisory and stakeholder engagement.
Languages:
- English: Fluent/ Native
Achievements and Contributions:
- Integral to Nigeria’s public sector SME grading system initiative, enhancing SME ecosystems and financial accessibility.
- Contributed to the Global Survey of SME Credit Rating Agencies, providing critical insights into global credit frameworks.
- Academic and professional experience that bridges research, consultancy, and policy advisory.
Zaakirah Ismail Halim’s extensive expertise and strategic approach make her an invaluable asset to CRA Global Development. Her commitment to driving impactful economic initiatives is evident in her contributions to public and private sector projects across Africa.
