Abdul Awal

A seasoned development professional with deep understanding of private sector development (PSD) and inclusive business, market systems development (MSD), value chain analysis and Value Chain System Development (VCD), ‘Making Markets Work for the Poor’ (M4P), ‘Sustainable Livelihood Approach (SLA)’ and gender mainstreaming and women economic empowerment (WEE) gained through working in Bangladesh and abroad over 20 years. Have proven track record in project management with outstanding analytical skills, deep understanding of the ‘monitoring and result measurement (MRM)’ and sound knowledge of 'DCED standards'. Have significant experience in leading sub-sector and value chain analyses, developing project and strategies, design and implement market-oriented and incentive-based, demand-led solutions along with formulating WEE strategy and interventions following M4P Approach. Has successfully managed and executed interventions in a wide range of value chains and sectors, including maize, horticulture, vegetables, potato, jute, pulses, groundnut, spices, flower, fish, seed, irrigation and fertiliser. Has a strong foothold in supply chain management of large corporates, with specialisation in contract farming. Contributed to the design and implementation of WEE interventions in the maize and vegetable sector following the M4P Approach, establishment and successful operations of 150 entrepreneur-led horticultural nurseries (around 50% women) in the northern districts of Bangladesh. Has also designed and implemented demand-led marketing interventions for the rural poor and women that built sustainable linkages with key market actors, including building the capacity of 30 community-based organisations (CBOs) to become “community business incubators” and developed several rural “collection centres”. Brings strong capabilities in managing partnership relations and building crosscutting linkages to holistically enhance the livelihoods of the rural poor.