Azar Garayev
Project Manager • Project coordinator • Project Consultant
*** ****** **, #***. ********, 60090 IL
Cell phone: 224-***-****
Email: *********@*****.***
https://www.linkedin.com/in/azer-garayev-620ba340/
Authorized to work in US without sponsorship
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
•Extensive career in effective national and international project management, coordination, and development, with a focus on climate change adaptation and mitigation, sustainable development, environmental issues, biodiversity conservation, forestry, sustainable asgriculture and green economy.
•Demonstrated technical proficiency and deep understanding of environmental issues, coupled with the ability to translate this knowledge into successful project outcomes.
•Proven leadership skills, adept at guiding teams to achieve project deadlines and goals, consistently driving optimal results.
•Knowledgeable in international environmental legislations include climate change risk assessment and adept at drafting bills for enforcement, with expertise in project management planning and monitoring.
•Exceptional experience in community outreach, mobilization, and stakeholder engagement, along with a strong background in advocacy and coalition development, communication, and public awareness initiatives.
•Well-versed in rural development processes and sustainable livelihood practices, contributing to holistic project approaches.
•Experienced in extension services and training, conducting analytical studies, and organizing public hearings on Environmental Impact Assessment.
•Proficient in providing project-related administrative procedures and structures, with expertise in procurement and budgeting.
•Skilled in multicultural teamwork, fostering collaboration and synergy among diverse team members.
•Committed to capacity building and organizational development, leveraging efforts to enhance team performance and effectiveness.
•Proficient in procurement procedures and adept at preparing comprehensive project reports.
•Experienced in preparing various training materials and manuals, ensuring effective knowledge transfer and capacity development.
SKILLS & TOOLS
• Project & Test Management tool: Ms Project, Trello
• Database: Oracle, GIS
• Operation systems: Windows, MacOS
• Methodologies: Agile-Scrum, Waterfall
• Office Tools: MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint
• Communication Tools: Zoom, Skype, Webex, MS Teams.
• Certificates: FY22 Cybersecurity Awareness Courses: Staying Cyber Safe anytime anywhere. (the World Bank) 02/17/24, Trainer on " Development of Coalitions "; Training of Global Environmental Facility «Preparation of Environmental Grant Projects»; Certified of «Sustainable Human Development » of UNDP .
• Languages: Turkish, Russian, Azerbaijanian.
EDUCATION
•Institute of Engineer-Construction; Faculty –water supply and sewerage, Master degree.
•St. Petersburg Forest-technical Academy. Faculty – Response on impact of Emergency situation on Environment, Diploma
WORK EXPERIENCE
The World Bank
http://www.worldbank.org/
USA, Washington, DC - Country Activity Coordinator for the EU4Environement Project, Hybrid.
November, 2021-Present time
Responsibilities:
Supported the development of the Country Work Plan and contributed to the development of regional level activities. Liaised with National Program Focal Points and designated government officials on all matters related to EU4Environment activity implementation. Organized and participated in Program-related working meetings. Provided guidance and support in hiring local firms/consultants for activity implementation, including drafting Terms of Reference (ToRs) for contractors. Organized events, meetings, and workshops. Represented the WB team in meetings and other events, developing and delivering presentations. Supported the WB country coordinator in developing Program semi-annual and annual reports.
Scientific Network for the Caucasus Mountain Region
www.caucasus-mt.net
www.sd-caucasus.com
Tbilisi, Georgia- National Project Coordinator of Strengthening Climate Adaptation Capacities, Hybrid.
December, 2018 – January, 2022
Responsibilities:
Performed comprehensive program spanning three distinct phases, which included the implementation of pilot projects, stakeholder consultations, and specialized training sessions aimed at fostering sustainable agriculture and disaster risk reduction at the local level. Strategically identified and prioritized country-specific program objectives, culminating in the meticulous preparation of country work plans for two successive phases. Facilitated the generation of insightful program reports, showcasing tangible progress in reducing the vulnerability of populations to climate-induced natural hazards while concurrently fostering regional cooperation in climate adaptation and sustainable mountain development. Spearheaded initiatives to bolster learning and teaching capacities within the region's higher education institutions, with a particular focus on enhancing expertise in disaster risk reduction. Actively contributed to the facilitation of global, regional, and national knowledge exchange platforms, fostering multi-stakeholder dialogue on critical issues related to climate adaptation and sustainable mountain development. Implemented robust processes and cutting-edge tools to streamline the management, collection, analysis, and dissemination of data within the Mountain database, ensuring seamless access to vital information for stakeholders and decision-makers.
Institute of Geography of the Academy of Science
Azerbaijan, Baku– GIS consultant, on site.
September 2019 - January 2021
Responsibilities:
Supported improvement of spatial data sharing mechanisms and further promotion of the SNC-mt pilot project – Caucasus Spatial Data Infrastructure –C-SDI (http://sustainable-caucasus.grid.unep.ch) the SCAC will support improvement of data geoprocessing capacities; gap analyses of spatial data availability and infrastructure and institutional arrangements; capacity building of key local actors related to countries’ involvement in international and regional flagship initiatives through the Group on Earth Observation (GEO).
APPU
www.slowfood-covcheg.az
Azerbaijan, Baku– Project Manager, Hybrid.
June 2018 – December 2019
Responsibilities:
Oversaw the overall management of the grant project, ensuring its smooth operation and successful execution. Prepared comprehensive financial and program reports, providing accurate and detailed insights into project progress and expenditures. Organized and facilitated training sessions for civil society and governmental bodies, equipping participants with the necessary skills and knowledge. Led public awareness and media campaigns, effectively communicating project objectives and outcomes to a wide audience. Spearheaded initiatives focused on climate change adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and community engagement, fostering sustainable practices and resilience. Played a key role in communication activities, leveraging various channels to disseminate project-related information and engage stakeholders. Prepared country project reports encompassing thorough analyses, findings, conclusions, and actionable recommendations, ensuring valuable insights for project stakeholders and decision-makers.
ASPA
Azerbaijan, Baku– Project Coordinator, Hybrid.
January 2014- March 2017
Responsibilities:
Led the inception phase and implementation of three pilot projects within the program, ensuring alignment with project objectives and timelines. Conducted stakeholder consultations to gather valuable input and perspectives, fostering collaboration and inclusivity in project planning and execution. Organized and facilitated training sessions for local communities, focusing on sustainable agriculture and pasture management at the grassroots level.
Identified and prioritized country-specific program objectives, contributing to the preparation of comprehensive country work plans for two successive phases. Prepared interim and final reports for program progress and outcomes, providing detailed insights and analysis for stakeholders and funders. Organized and chaired National Program Steering Committee meetings and other program events, fostering communication, collaboration, and decision-making among key stakeholders.
The World Bank
http://www.worldbank.org/
USA, Washington, DC – Country Program Coordinator, Hybrid.
March 2009- June 2017
Responsibilities:
Performed inception and two main phases of the program, ensuring alignment with project objectives and timelines. Conducted stakeholder consultations to gather valuable input and perspectives, fostering collaboration and engagement. Identified country program priorities, key stakeholders, and facilitated community engagement efforts. Prepared comprehensive country work plans and program reports, providing detailed insights for stakeholders. Organized National Programs advisory committee meetings and managed country program budgets. Facilitated Forest Landscape Restoration activities, conducted Ecosystem Services Assessments, and provided Environmental education for youth and children. Organized International summer schools and developed special manuals and communication plans to support project objectives. Implemented training processes for civil society and governmental bodies, focusing on capacity building and awareness raising. Managed media relations and public awareness campaigns, engaging with PR activities and linking with local government and administration. Drafted legal documents and provided various reviews to ensure project compliance and effectiveness. Undertook program management tasks, ensuring smooth operations and successful project outcomes.
Food and Agricultural Organisation of the UN
http://www.fao.org/
Baku, Azerbaijan – National Consultant on Climate Change adaptation, Hybrid.
November 2012 - February 2013
Responsibilities:
Under the overarching supervision of the FAO Sub-regional Office for Central Asia and FAO Representative for Azerbaijan, and the technical oversight of the LTU (FOEP), the responsibilities include:
Reviewing and assessing existing information, data, and future climate change scenarios, incorporating predictions on the long-term impacts of climatic change on forest resources. Analyzing existing policies, strategies, and legislation related to the adaptation of forest management to climatic change and climate change mitigation through forestry activities. Preparing a comprehensive country report encompassing thorough analyses, findings, conclusions, and recommendations based on the review and assessment conducted.
International Union for the Conservation of Nature
http://www.iucn.org/
Switzerland, Gland – Country Project Coordinator, Hybrid.
March 2010 – June 2012
Responsibilities:
As the National Coordinator, responsibilities include: Overseeing the country project management, ensuring smooth operation and adherence to project objectives. Preparing financial and program reports to provide accurate documentation of project progress and expenditures. Organizing and implementing training processes for civil society and governmental bodies, focusing on capacity building and awareness-raising initiatives. Managing public awareness and media outreach efforts, engaging in PR activities, and fostering connections with local government and administration. Drafting progress, technical, and monitoring reports to provide comprehensive updates on project activities and outcomes. Providing various reviews to ensure project effectiveness and compliance with established standards. Undertaking general program management duties to support the successful implementation of project activities.
“Regional Environmental Center for Caucasus”
www.rec-caucasus.org
Tbilisi, Georgia – Country Project Coordinator, Hybrid.
March 2003 – June 2009
Responsibilities:
Managing program activities, including the preparation of financial and program reports to ensure accountability and transparency. Organizing and implementing training programs for civil society and governmental bodies to enhance their capacities. Leading public awareness and media outreach efforts, including communication activities and engagement with local government and administration. Drafting progress, technical, and monitoring reports to assess project performance and compliance. Providing reviews and feedback to improve program effectiveness and efficiency. Undertaking general program management duties to ensure the successful implementation of activities.