Sam Akyianu

Sam Akyianu has a diverse work experience spanning several organizations and roles. Their most recent role is as the Chief of Party at MEDA (Mennonite Economic Development Associates), specifically overseeing the Mastercard Foundation Africa Growth Fund. In this position, they are responsible for impact investment with a Gender Lens, business support services, and impact measurement.

Prior to their current role, Akyianu worked at the International Finance Corporation (IFC) as the Global Lead for IFC SME Ventures Advisory Services, where they managed $690 million in SME venture funds across multiple countries. Sam also provided strategic leadership, conducted investment advisory services, and managed projects in various sectors such as light manufacturing, financial services, agribusiness, hospitality, healthcare, education, and logistics.

Before their time at IFC, Akyianu held several positions at Chemonics International, where they served as the Lead Business Development Services Specialist. In this role, they managed a team and delivered business development services and access to finance for agribusiness and horticulture export supply chain firms. Sam also facilitated partnerships and implemented innovative programs in the horticulture industry.

Akyianu's career began at TechnoServe, where they held various positions over the years. Sam served as the Director of Business Development Services and C.E.D.I Trust, leading projects related to agribusiness, sorghum sourcing, rice mill rehabilitation, and tomato processing. Sam also managed client finance and established training programs for local entrepreneurs.

Prior to their work at TechnoServe, Akyianu worked as a consultant at PKK Co, TechnoServe again, and Deloitte. Sam started their professional career as a Project Engineer at TechnoServe, where they worked on maize technology field demonstrations.

Overall, Akyianu's work experience showcases their expertise in impact investment, business development, project management, and advisory services across various sectors and regions.

Sam Akyianu's education history includes a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree in Finance and Financial Management Services from the University of Ghana, obtained from 1996 to 1998. Earlier, Sam Akyianu had completed a Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, from 1989 to 1993.

Additionally, Sam Akyianu has a Post Graduate Diploma in Strategic Agri-Marketing in Agricultural Business and Management from Purdue University. The specific timeline for this certification is not provided.

In terms of additional certifications, Sam Akyianu has obtained certifications such as Associate Chartered Management Accountant (ACMA) and Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) from the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA). There are several other certifications related to project management, credit and investment, advisory services, leadership, and sustainable business advisory, among others. The specific details about the month and year of obtaining these certifications are not provided.