EMMANUEL BASHIEL COMEHN
Lower Margibi
Summary
A seasoned, result-oriented humanitarian professional with over 15 years of experience in senior management positions and over 10 as an expatriate manager overseeing programs and operations across challenging environments. I possess strong knowledge and experience in managing various aspects of the project cycle and operational functions. With over 7 years of experience managing emergency responses ranging from refugee influx to natural disaster, I have excellent knowledge in protection, food security and livelihoods, peacebuilding, food and cash/voucher assistance and WASH sectors programming; and support services in complex humanitarian settings.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Head of Programs
Agency Coordinating Body for Afghan Relief and Development (ACBAR)
Kabul
05.2023 - 04.2025
- Directed program unit, designing project proposals and overseeing financial management with support from finance team.
- Led mapping and capacity assessment of national NGO partners, delivering training and mentoring to enhance capabilities.
- Regularly liaised with donors, preparing comprehensive reports on program progress.
- Monitored value-for-money and logframe indicators, ensuring accountability and transparency.
- Oversaw monitoring and evaluation processes to maintain data integrity and promote quality programming.
- Maintained updated risk register, coordinating mentoring and training activities for NNGO twinning partners.
- Served as focal point for promoting principled localization among ACBAR NGO members.
- Conducted monthly budget reviews and updated implementation plans to prevent financial discrepancies.
Project Management Specialist
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
Monrovia
11.2022 - 05.2023
- Managed implementation of FAO components for Joint UN Community Forest Management Project.
- Prepared annual work plans and budgets; supported organization of project inception meetings.
- Conducted capacity assessments for potential partners; drafted Letters of Agreement for partnerships.
- Oversaw partnerships with implementing partners to ensure timely, high-quality execution of activities.
- Engaged in national discussions on forest-related topics; supported FDA in community outreach initiatives.
- Facilitated project activity planning, initiated logistics processes, and coordinated implementation efforts.
- Led reporting on behalf of FAO; mobilized target communities and stakeholders alongside FDA and MIA.
- Developed annual procurement, HR, and travel plans; coordinated implementation with relevant units.
Area Response Manager
Catholic Relief Services (CRS)
Makelle
04.2021 - 03.2022
- Led the CRS emergency response team in Tigray, ensuring timely program delivery and quality representation.
- Achieved project outcomes on schedule and within budget through strategic planning and execution.
- Monitored implementation to maintain sustainability strategies and budget adherence.
- Managed project risks while ensuring compliance with CRS and donor grant regulations.
- Oversaw partner budgets and finances, delivering detailed reports to donors.
- Directed operations across administration, human resources, fleet management, procurement, and finance for optimal efficiency.
Program Manager – Emergency & (Head of Office)
Catholic Relief Services (CRS)
Yumbe, Uganda
11.2019 - 03.2021
- Managed emergency response and recovery in Bidi-Bidi Settlement for South Sudanese refugees and host communities.
- Provided technical oversight for four projects within Emergency Response Programming, ensuring support for vulnerable populations.
- Ensured effective management of operational systems and resources to optimize program delivery.
- Conducted assessments and developed concepts and proposals to support business development initiatives.
- Led planning, design, and implementation of emergency response strategy to address urgent needs.
- Supervised team dynamics, promoting staff well-being, development, and performance improvement.
Senior Program and Partnership Consultant
Liberia NGOs Network (LINNK)
Monrovia, Liberia
07.2019 - 11.2019
- Reporting, supported the development of the program by writing proposals, including that of the Spotlight project, “Combatting Violence against Women and Girls in Liberia,” and provided training on partnership and programming.
- To ensure program quality and accountability, I developed tools for capacity assessment of member organizations and provided training in appropriate thematic areas (M&E, reporting, and financial management procedures).
- Established a database for tracking member organizations' activities and locations.
- Reporting the development of the program by writing proposals, incl supporteduding that of the Spotlight project, “Combatting Violence against Women and Girls in Liberia,” and provided training on partnership and programming.
Area Manager & Programme Coordinator
Danish Refugee Council (DRC)
Zalingei, Sudan
08.2016 - 06.2019
- Managed DRC operations in Zalingei and Azum, coordinating Darfur Program activities.
- Ensured timely support services across financial, administrative, and logistical areas for field offices.
- Collaborated with MEAL to develop monitoring and evaluation plans, tools, and work plans.
- Represented DRC in humanitarian forums to enhance visibility and influence.
- Led Humanitarian-Development-Peace Nexus initiatives and community-driven recovery programs.
- Oversaw UNDP Women and Youth Economic Empowerment Project, focusing on skills training.
- Developed emergency preparedness and contingency plans for effective response strategies.
- Strengthened partnerships with local NGOs to foster collaboration among stakeholders.
Area Manager
Danish Refugee Council (DRC)
Adjumani, Uganda
07.2015 - 08.2016
- .Oversaw the management of DRC’s Multisector Emergency Response to South Sudanese refugees across 11 settlements and 1 transit center.
- Developed and managed area strategy concurrent with DRC's country strategy.
- Ensured quality. Implementation of projects, effectively managed program budget that avoided over- and under-spending, and prepared narrative and financial reports in collaboration with Grant and finance5 manager
- Supervised human resources and ensured staff adherence to the organization policies and guidelines, safety and security procedures to ensure effective operations.
- Managed partnerships with NGOs and built stronger relations with relevant stakeholders.1
Project Manager & Head of Field Office
Danish Refugee Council (DRC)
Garsila, Sudan
09.2013 - 06.2015
- Oversaw the management of all projects implemented at field office including the Darfur Community Peace and Stabilization Fund.
- Trained program team in community dialogue and participatory methodologies.
- Supported business development by writing concept papers and project proposal, and reporting.
- Represented DRC in coordination forums and fostered collaboration with key stakeholders.
- Oversaw an effective financial management and conducive environment that enhanced the performance of staff.
- Ensured that effective operational supports were provided to program team.
- Ensured safety and security protocols are rolled.
- Served as the CDRD focal person for Darfur.
Deputy Chief of Party for the McGovern -Dole Food for Education
International Relief and Development (now Blumont Inc.)
Monrovia
09.2010 - 02.2012
- Oversaw the MEAL Unit, and the implementation of the school feeding components of the program.
- Developed M&E systems, tools, project Implementation Plan and drafted all project reports.
- Provided technical support to the operations team on the handling of food commodities from warehouse to targeted school to ensure the safety and quality throughout the supply chain pipeline.
- Led in-house review and capacity building of staff, schools’ authorities in key M&E topics and handling.
- Supported new business development by undertaking assessment.
- Supported the formation of Parent-Teacher-Student Associations in more than 200 schools to oversee school gardening for school feeding.
Assistant Regional Program Manager (West Africa)
Danish Refugee Council (DRC)
Monrovia
02.2007 - 07.2010
- Led the Community-Driven Recovery programming.
- Facilitated community action planning and supported beneficiary communities to implement their CAPs.
- Supported capacity building of program staffs and partners.
- Led the MEAL unit at regional level, designed MEAL system, oversaw all MEAL activities, and maintained updated database; and worked closely with external evaluators conducting project evaluation.
- Supported business development by leading assessments, drafting concept papers and proposals.
- Supported communication unit by analyzing data and provided information on lessons learned.
Assistant Program Manager
Danish Refugee Council (DRC)
Harper
01.2006 - 01.2007
- Coordinated the timely and quality implementation of the Community-based development project activities.
- Facilitated all community action planning, designed M&E plans, and managed all M&E activities.
- Monitored local partners’ agreements to ensure compliance with DRC and Donor’s regulations.
- Supported programme expansion by conducting assessments, drafting concept notes and project proposals.
- Supported staff capacity building by providing training in participatory approaches and MEAL.
Programme Operations Manager
Danish Refugee Council (DRC)
Monrovia
10.2003 - 12.2005
- Oversaw the implementation of activities under the multisector program through regular planning and review; coordinated support services (i.e., logistics, finance, and administration) amongst projects.
- Coordinated field offices to ensure improved operational system that support timely and quality implementation of activities, management reporting, and information flow.
- Led program teams in conducting 3 region-wide needs assessments and carrying out M&E activities.
Logistics Officer
Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA)
Monrovia
05.1999 - 09.2003
- Oversaw the Logistics with key duties planning all vehicle movements, maintenance, conducting monthly cost analysis for fuel per project.
- Established fleet record for insurance and repair; and processed government related documents.
- Performed in-country purchases, and managed the supply-chain between the country office and field locations.
- Managed the staff guesthouse/residence and prepared monthly guest’s movement report.
- Trained drivers on Logbook filling and vehicle maintenance and submitted monthly report.
Education
Master of Science - Project Management
University of Salford
Manchester, United Kingdom11.2017
Master of Science - Development and International Relations
Aalborg University
Copenhagen, Denmark12.2013
Bachelor of Science - Economics
University of Liberia
Monrovia, Capitol Hill, Liberia12.2009
Diploma - Management
Liberia Data and Research Services (LDRS)
Monrovia, Sinkor, Liberia10.1995
Skills
- Project Planning
- Design
- Proposal Writing
- Budget Development
- Budget Management
- Fundraising
- Partnership
- Program Management
- Project Management
- Social Protection
- CVA programming
- In-kind programming
- Emergency Response Management
- Disaster Response Management
- Capacity Building
- Training Design
- Training Facilitation
- Coaching
- Mentoring
- M&E System Design
- M&E System Management
- People Management
- Team Work
References
- Richard H. Hoffman, Former Director – ACBAR, Kabul, Afghanistan, hoffy123@gmail.com, +1 724 900 9557
- Sarah Gilbert, Global Lead – Homes & Communities, Catholic Relief Services - Uganda, Sarah.gilbert@crs.org, +1 240 606 2860
- Emily Amelia Russell, Former Country Director - DRC, Khartoum, Sudan, emicus81@hotmail.com, +44 778 926 2289
Training
- APMG International & Catholic Relief Services, Makelle, Tigray, Ethiopia, Project DPro Foundation Certification, 05/14/21, Project Management, Cost Reduction strategies and Communication, Stakeholders & risks management
- Institut Bioforce Developpement, Venissieux, France, Training Certificate, 12/18/09, Humanitarian Programme Management, Quality and Accountability, Disaster Management, Emergency response planning and implementation
- Human Rights Education Associates (District Learning), Concord, MA, USA, Certificate of Completion - Research & Evaluation in NGO Sector, 12/01/09, Project logic model, Data collection strategies, Assessing M&E system, Solving problems, Indicator development, M&E plan design, Data analysis, Evaluation planning and execution
- International Institute for Rural Reconstruction (IIRR), Kisumu, Kenya, Certificate of Participation, 12/01/06, Participatory Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Course
- GROUPE URD/Danish Refugee Council, Harper, Liberia, Certificate of Successful Completion, 08/18/04, Participatory Rural Appraisal, Community Development approaches
Relevant Career Experiences
- Agency Coordinating Body for Afghan Relief and Development (ACBAR), Kabul, Afghanistan, Head of Programs, 05/15/23, 04/01/25, Led the program unit of the organization with key tasks that include designing project proposals, planning and implementing projects, and overseeing financial management of the program with finance support., Led the mapping and capacity assessment of national NGO partners, and provided targeted supports through training and mentoring to build their capacity as part of Localization initiative., Liaised with the donors on a regular basis and prepared reports. Monitored and reported on value-for-money and logframe program indicators. Oversaw M&E to ensure integrity of data and promoted quality programming., Maintained an updated risk register and coordinated NNGO twinning partners mentoring and training activities., Served as focal point for expansion of principled Localization among NGO members of ACBAR., Conducted monthly budget review and updating of implementation plan to avoid over/under spending., Coordinated with UNOCHA and other potential funders to achieve fundraising goals.
- Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Monrovia, Liberia, Project Management Specialist, 11/01/22, 05/01/23, Managed the implementation of FAO components of the Joint UN Community Forest Management Project., Prepared annual work plans and budgets, and supported the organization of the project inception meetings., Led capacity assessment for potential partners and drafted Letters of Agreement (LOA) for partnership., Managed partnership with selected implementing partners to ensure timely and quality implementation., Participated in national discussions on forest-related topics and supported FDA on community engagement., Facilitated project activities planning, initiated logistics processes, and coordinated activities implementation., Led reporting on behalf of FAO and jointly mobilized target communities and stakeholders with FDA and MIA., Developed annual procurement, HR, & travel plans, and coordinated with relevant units to ensure implementation., Supported the preparation of financial updates/reports and prepared annual M&E plans with indicator trackers., Supported the design of program communication and visibility plan and represented FAO at forest forums.
- Catholic Relief Services (CRS), Makelle, Tigray, Ethiopia, Area Response Manager, 04/01/21, 03/31/22, Provided leadership for the CRS emergency response team in Tigray with oversight for effective representation, ensuring quality implementation of the emergency program, including timely planning and execution of projects and MEAL activities (monitoring, evaluation, and learning), and ensured effective operational functions., Ensured project results were achieved on time and within budget. Monitored implementation and context to ensure strategies for phase-out and sustainability and that the budget is consumed as planned., Managed project risks and ensured compliance with CRS and donor policies and regulations for grants, including oversight of partners’ budgets, finances, and administration, and reporting to donors., Oversaw both operations (admin, HR, fleet, procurement, finance) and program activities.
- Catholic Relief Services (CRS), Yumbe, West Nile, Uganda, Program Manager – Emergency & (Head of Office), 11/27/19, 03/31/21, Managed CRS' Emergency Response and Recovery in Bidi-Bidi Settlement, through high-quality implementation of activities that served South Sudanese Refugees and host communities., Provided technical oversight to the implementation of 4 projects as part of the Emergency Response Programming that ensure the poor and vulnerable are served., Ensured the effective management of operational systems and resources. Supported business development by undertaking assessment, writing concepts and proposals., Managed the planning, design and implementation of the Emergency Response Strategy. Effectively supervised talent that ensured team dynamics and staff well-being, supported staff development and performance.
- Liberia NGOs Network (LINNK), Monrovia, Liberia, Senior Program and Partnership Consultant, 07/05/19, 11/15/19, Supported the development of program by writing proposals including that of the Spotlight project 'Combatting Violence against women and girls in Liberia', and provided training on partnership and programming., To ensure program quality and accountability, developed tools for capacity assessment of member organisations and provided training in appropriate thematic areas (M&E, reporting and financial management procedures)., Established database for tracking member organisations activities and locations. Provided advice to Network leadership on fundraising and partnership.
- Danish Refugee Council (DRC), Zalingei, Central Darfur, Sudan, Area Manager & Programme Coordinator, 08/16/16, 06/30/19, Managed DRC operations within Zalingei & Azum localities and oversaw the coordination of Darfur Program., Ensured timely provision of support services (financial, administrative, and logistical) to other DRC field offices., Worked closely with MEAL to develop M&E plans and tools, work plan tandem with the Country Programme., Ensured effective representation of DRC through active participation in various humanitarian forums., Served as focal point for Humanitarian-Development-Peace Nexus, & community-driven recovery programming., Managed the UNDP 'Women and Youth economic empowerment project', a revolving fund and skills training interventions. Developed emergency preparedness & contingency plans for timely response to emergencies., Supported business development through assessments, writing concept papers and project proposals., Manage partnership with local NGOs and build stronger relations with all relevant stakeholders.
- Danish Refugee Council (DRC), Adjumani, Uganda, Area Manager, 07/01/15, 08/30/16, Oversaw the management of DRC’s Multisector Emergency Response to South Sudanese Refugees across 11 settlements and 1 transit center. Developed and managed area strategy concurrent with DRC’s country strategy., Ensured quality in project implementation, and effectively managed budget that avoided over and under spending, and prepared narrative and financial reports in collaboration with Grant & Finance managers., Supervised human resources and ensured adherence to DRC administrative policies & guidelines, safety and security rules and other tasks associated with effective operations., Managed partnership with NGOs and built stronger relations with relevant stakeholders.
- Danish Refugee Council (DRC), Garsila, Central Darfur, Sudan, Project Manager & Head of Field Office, 09/17/13, 06/30/15, Oversaw the management of all projects implemented at field office including the Darfur Community Peace and Stabilization Fund. Trained program team in community dialogue and participatory methodologies., Supported business development by writing concept papers and project proposal, and reporting. Represented DRC in coordination forums and fostered collaboration with key stakeholders., Oversaw an effective financial management and conducive environment that enhanced the performance of staff. Ensured that effective operational supports were provided to program team., Ensured safety and security protocols are rolled. Served as the CDRD focal person for Darfur.
- International Relief and Development (now Blumont Inc.), Monrovia, Liberia, Deputy Chief of Party for the McGovern -Dole Food for Education, 09/01/10, 02/12/12, Oversaw the MEAL Unit, and the implementation of the school feeding components of the program., Developed M&E systems, tools, project Implementation Plan and drafted all project reports., Provided technical support to the operations team on the handling of food commodities from warehouse to targeted school to ensure the safety and quality throughout the supply chain pipeline., Led in-house review and capacity building of staff, schools’ authorities in key M&E topics and handling., Supported new business development by undertaking assessment. Supported the formation of Parent-Teacher-Student Associations in more than 200 schools to oversee school gardening for school feeding.
- Danish Refugee Council (DRC), Monrovia, Liberia, Assistant Regional Program Manager (West Africa), 02/01/07, 07/31/10, Led the Community-Driven Recovery programming. Facilitated community action planning and supported beneficiary communities to implement their CAPs. Supported capacity building of program staffs and partners., Led the MEAL unit at regional level, designed MEAL system, oversaw all MEAL activities, and maintained updated database; and worked closely with external evaluators conducting project evaluation., Supported business development by leading assessments, drafting concept papers and proposals. Supported communication unit by analyzing data and provided information on lessons learned.
- Danish Refugee Council (DRC), Harper, Maryland, Liberia, Assistant Program Manager, 01/01/06, 01/31/07, Coordinated the timely and quality implementation of the Community-based development project activities., Facilitated all community action planning, designed M&E plans, and managed all M&E activities., Monitored local partners’ agreements to ensure compliance with DRC and Donor’s regulations., Supported programme expansion by conducting assessments, drafting concept notes and project proposals., Supported staff capacity building by providing training in participatory approaches and MEAL.
- Danish Refugee Council (DRC), Monrovia, Liberia, Programme Operations Manager, 10/01/03, 12/31/05, Oversaw the implementation of activities under the multisector program through regular planning and review; coordinated support services (i.e., logistics, finance, and administration) amongst projects., Coordinated field offices to ensure improved operational system that support timely and quality implementation of activities, management reporting, and information flow., Led program teams in conducting 3 region-wide needs assessments and carrying out M&E activities.
- Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), Monrovia, Liberia, Logistics Officer, 05/01/99, 09/30/03, Oversaw the Logistics with key duties planning all vehicle movements, maintenance, conducting monthly cost analysis for fuel per project., Established fleet record for insurance and repair; and processed government related documents., Performed in-country purchases, and managed the supply-chain between the country office and field locations., Managed the staff guesthouse/residence and prepared monthly guest’s movement report., Trained drivers on Logbook filling and vehicle maintenance and submitted monthly report.
Profile
A seasoned, result-oriented humanitarian professional with over 15 years of experience in senior management positions and over 10 as an expatriate manager overseeing programs and operations across challenging environments. I possess strong knowledge and experience in managing various aspects of the project cycle and operational functions. With over 7 years of experience managing emergency responses ranging from refugee influx to natural disaster, I have excellent knowledge in protection, food security and livelihoods, peacebuilding, food and cash/voucher assistance and WASH sectors programming; and support services in complex humanitarian settings., Project Planning, Design, and Proposal Writing, Budget Development & Management, Fundraising and Partnership, Program/Project Management, Social Protection(CVA & In-kind) programming, Emergency/Disaster Response Management, Capacity Building - Training Design/Facilitation, Coaching and Mentoring, M&E System Design and Management, People Management & Team Work
Timeline
Head of Programs
Agency Coordinating Body for Afghan Relief and Development (ACBAR)
05.2023 - 04.2025
Project Management Specialist
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
11.2022 - 05.2023
Area Response Manager
Catholic Relief Services (CRS)
04.2021 - 03.2022
Program Manager – Emergency & (Head of Office)
Catholic Relief Services (CRS)
11.2019 - 03.2021
Senior Program and Partnership Consultant
Liberia NGOs Network (LINNK)
07.2019 - 11.2019
Area Manager & Programme Coordinator
Danish Refugee Council (DRC)
08.2016 - 06.2019
Area Manager
Danish Refugee Council (DRC)
07.2015 - 08.2016
Project Manager & Head of Field Office
Danish Refugee Council (DRC)
09.2013 - 06.2015
Deputy Chief of Party for the McGovern -Dole Food for Education
International Relief and Development (now Blumont Inc.)
09.2010 - 02.2012
Assistant Regional Program Manager (West Africa)
Danish Refugee Council (DRC)
02.2007 - 07.2010
Assistant Program Manager
Danish Refugee Council (DRC)
01.2006 - 01.2007
Programme Operations Manager
Danish Refugee Council (DRC)
10.2003 - 12.2005
Logistics Officer
Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA)
05.1999 - 09.2003
Master of Science - Project Management
University of Salford
Master of Science - Development and International Relations
Aalborg University
Bachelor of Science - Economics
University of Liberia
Diploma - Management
Liberia Data and Research Services (LDRS)