Resume

Project Manager

Location:

Berlin, Germany

Posted:

August 29, 2023

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Resume:

CURRICULUM VITAE

*.Family name: Kochoradze

*.First names: Vakhtang

3.Date of birth: 1988, March 8

4.Passport holder: Georgia

5.Residence: Georgia

6.Education:

Institution, [ Date from - Date to ]

Degree(s) or Diploma(s) obtained:

Autonomous University of Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain (2014-2016)

Ecological Economics, Master of Sciences

Hochschule Bremen, Bremen, Germany (2009 – 2010)

European Studies, Master of Arts

Georgian American University, Tbilisi, Georgia (2005 – 2009)

Business Administration, Bachelor

7.Language skills: Indicate competence on a scale of 1 to 5 (1 - excellent; 5 - basic)

Language

Reading

Speaking

Writing

Georgian

English

Russian

German

Spanish

8.Membership of professional bodies: Association “Georgian Forest Products”

9.Other skills: SQL, Google Analytics, Excel, PowerPoint, Microsoft Project, investment analysis, presentation skills, Agile

10.Present position: Project Manager and Expert, CENN

11.Years within the firm: 8

12.Key qualifications:

Mr. Vakhtang Kochoradze is an experienced ecological economist with 6 + years in project management. Outstanding performance acknowledged by CENN executives for 7 years and running. Managed multilingual cross-border projects and teams. Specialized in ecological economics, Mr. Kochoradze’s work is focused sustainable economic development and intrinsic relationship between forests, energy, communities and economics. Qualifications include:

Proven analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret data and apply creative solutions to complex problems.

Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills to develop relationships with key internal and external stakeholders.

Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-based environment.

Demonstrated experience in developing, implementing and monitoring programs and projects related to Renewable Energy, Green Economy, Eco-Tourism, Green Development, WASH and SDGs.

Ability to lead and directly manage multiple projects simultaneously, while meeting deadlines and adhering to budgets.

Proven record of carrying out research, business planning and sectoral assessments.

Proven experience in building partnerships with governments, non-profits and other stakeholders

Ability to identify obstacles, anticipate needs, and develop strategies to meet objectives.

Evaluation of project concept notes (CN) and full proposals (FP), business models.

6 Year experience in development of project proposals, project planning and implementation.

13.Specific experience in the region:

Country

Date from - Date to

Georgia

2015 - 2023

Germany

2009 - 2010

14.Professional experiences

Date (FROM + TO)

Location

Company & Reference Name-Contact details

Position

Description

22/03/2023-Present

Georgia,

Tbilisi

CENN

Reference:

Ana Petriashvili adza3o@r.postjobfree.com

Energy Expert

Project : Technical Assistance Project In Support Of the Georgian Energy Sector Reform Programme (GESRP)

Client: European Union through Intec - GOPA International Energy Consulting; Project Budget – EUR 97,000.00

The objectives of the project are the following: (1) Enhance awareness of Energy Efficiency within schools (students, teachers and parents) and among the youth; (2) Increase awareness and broaden the understanding and knowledge of the public about Energy Efficiency and the Georgian Energy Sector reforms; (3) Promote EU Energy Policies.

Tasks:

Developed a training module on Energy Efficiency (EE) topics with a focus on Renewable Energy (RE) and EE practices in the EU. Conducted two-day training sessions in schools for Display teams consisting of teachers and students. Checked the accuracy of data to be input into the online calculation tool (CENN energy expert) to generate display posters that show energy, carbon dioxide, and water performance ratings for school buildings.

12/02/2022-29/03/2023

Georgia,

Tbilisi

CENN

Reference:

Gvantsa Akiashvili

adza3o@r.postjobfree.com

SDG Expert

Project: Georgia Spotlight Report SDG 6 & 7

Client: SDG LENS; Project Budget – EUR 4,000.00

Provided an assessment to identify challenges and provide recommendations to help Georgia make progress towards achieving two Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy).

21/06/2021 -Present

Georgia,

Tbilisi

CENN

Reference:

Nana Janashia

adza3o@r.postjobfree.com

Project Manager

Project: Community Engagement and Accountability Initiative

Client: Eurasia Foundation; Project Budget – USD 20,300.00

The project aimed to strengthen the capacity of Iranian CSOs with a focus on the principles of transparency and participatory management. Within the project, two rounds of trainings helped CSO leaders to foster networking and the exchange of best practices and experience among local CSO leaders and with international counterparts.

Tasks

Provided online trainings for Iranian CSOs and educators on youth leadership, environmental active-learning, and practical engagement tools using traditional and social media communication.

15/07/2022 -15/03/2023

Georgia,

Tbilisi & Guria region

CENN

Reference:

Nana Janashia

adza3o@r.postjobfree.com

Project Manager

Project : Assessment of the potential of non-timber forest products for nature-positive recovery in Georgia

Client: GIZ; Project Budget – EUR 7,000.00

The objective of the assignment was to explore the potential of rural biodiversity-based value chains (related to non-timber forest products) and their relevance for economic recovery in rural areas. The consultancy might thereby refer to the BioTrade initiative under the CBD, the EU Green Deal as well as national strategies and programmes that comply with the definition of nature-positive recovery given above and have a gender-transformative approach.

Tasks

Studied the potential of rural biodiversity-based value chains and their relevance for economic recovery in rural areas. Specifically, the research centred around non-timber forest products (NTFPs), which are products that are derived from forest resources other than timber, such as fruits, nuts, medicinal plants, and wild honey.

Various benefits of NTFPs were explored, including their potential as a source of income for rural communities, their contribution to food security, and their role in promoting sustainable land use practices. I have also explored the challenges that rural communities face in developing NTFP-based value chains, such as inadequate infrastructure, limited access to markets, and lack of knowledge and skills.

01/09/2018-31/01/2023

Georgia, Tbilisi & Ajara, Mtkheta-Mtianeti, Samegrelo, Kakheti Regions

CENN

Reference:

Rezo Getiashvili

adza3o@r.postjobfree.com

RE&EE and Green Economy Component Lead and Expert

Project: Promoting Sustainable Forest Management For Climate Resilient Rural Development in Georgia

Client: Austrian Development Cooperation; Project Budget – EUR 1,555,000.00

The overall objective of the project was to contribute to the reduction of rural poverty and delivery of commitments taken by the government of Georgia under the SDGs, NDC, and EU AA with regard to sustainable green growth. The specific objectives of the project were: building interpectoral interagency cooperation for sustainable resources management; promoting sustainable energy solutions in rural areas; stimulating income generation from the sustainable use of forest-based products and services; disaster risk reduction (DRR) through improved watershed management; Increasing public awareness and building knowledge for informed public participation and evidence based decision-making; and women empowerment to increase their participation and income.

Tasks:

Implemented successful EE and RE pilot projects in Georgia, including the promotion of renewable energy production and utilization, and improvement of energy efficiency in schools in Adjara AR. The projects introduced technologies such as photovoltaic systems, solar water heaters, energy-efficient stoves, etc., benefiting at least 500 people.

Managed grants, ensuring compliance with regulations and donor requirements.

Developed and implemented pilot projects to promote sustainable forest use beyond timber extraction, aiming to conserve forests, mitigate climate change, and support local livelihoods.

Led media campaigns to promote alternative energy and energy efficiency in Georgia, organizing media trips and publishing articles.

Supported income generation from sustainable forest-based products and services.

Contributed to the creation of the "Green Economy School" to study traditional forest use and identify sustainable community forest management models, developing 10 business models.

Involved in developing forest recreational management plans/projects in different regions, including hiking and biking trails.

Conducted mobilization campaigns in various regions to build local tourism capacity and establish Destination Management Initiatives (DMI), supporting skills development and sustainable tourism practices.

09/11/2020-09/11/2021

Georgia, Tbilisi & Kvemo Kartli, Kakheti Regions

CENN

Reference:

Nana Janashia

adza3o@r.postjobfree.com

Project Manager

Project: Community Action to Improve WASH Services in Vulnerable Rural Communities of Georgia (GEO-WASH)

Client: New World Program, Coca Cola Foundation, Global Water Challenge (GWC); Project Budget – USD 60,000.00

The overall objective of the project was to create sustainable improvements in water resources management and WASH services by engaging and empowering local communities, particularly women and youth, and promoting innovation and technological advancements in the sector.

Tasks

Implemented water resources management programs have resulted in improved WASH services and increased awareness of COVID-19 among the community, local women, and youth. Innovative solutions have been developed to meet international hygiene standards for healthcare centres and schools. Pilot projects and initiatives led by youth and women have improved WASH conditions. Public awareness of WASH has increased in rural schools, and the capacity of people involved in WASH has been strengthened. The improvements have benefitted approximately 1500 people by providing better access to safe water and basic sanitary needs.

Evaluated concept notes (CN) and full proposals (FP) of WASH projects, ensuring environment and climate change, rights-based approach, people with disability, indigenous peoples and gender equality is taken into account and fostering more effective and equitable outcomes in WASH interventions. Managed and monitored the implementation of successful pilot WASH projects.

Managed grants that included grant regulations management, compliance standards and donor requirements applications.

01/11/2018-15/09/2020

Georgia, Tbilisi & Kvemo Kartli, Kakheti, Imereti Regions

CENN

Reference:

Nana Janashia

adza3o@r.postjobfree.com

Project Manager

Project : Upscaling WASH Initiatives by Providing Essential Social Services for Women and Youth in Disadvantaged Rural Communities of Georgia

Client: New World Program, Coca Cola Foundation, Global Water Challenge (GWC); Project Budget – USD 170,000.00

The overall objective of the project was to support technology transfer and innovation in the WASH sector and to offer pro-poor benefit distribution by providing essential social services to excluded communities.

Tasks

Carried out activities to address water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) needs in rural schools through the creation of guidelines, monitoring protocols, and resource availability. The government prioritized the WASH sector and promoted collaboration between stakeholders. Public awareness and stakeholder capacity in WASH were increased, and new WASH technologies were introduced in different regions of Georgia. At least 5000 people in 10 public schools and 5 vulnerable communities benefited from improved access to safe water and sanitation. The private sector contributed to the project, and women and youth were engaged in advocating for WASH issues and practicing acquired knowledge, habit changes, and life skills.

Managed grants that included grant regulations management, compliance standards and donor requirements applications.

20/09/2017-20/03/2019

Georgia, Tbilisi & Kvemo Kartli Region

CENN

Reference:

Nana Janashia

adza3o@r.postjobfree.com

Project Manager

Project: Georgia Community WASH Initiative (GC-WASH) to Eliminate Inequalities in Access to Water and Sanitation in Vulnerable Multi-Ethnic Rural Communities

Client: New World Program, Coca Cola Foundation, Global Water Challenge (GWC); Project Budget – USD 71,474.00

Objective of the project is to improve well-being of vulnerable multi-ethnic communities via introduction of WASH standards and empowering local women and youth to advocate for their needs.

Tasks

Researched and communicated the water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) conditions of 20 vulnerable groups in several municipalities. The priority areas that require improvement were identified, and relevant authorities and the public were notified to encourage action. Priority measures were implemented in selected hotspots to improve WASH conditions, such as schools, kindergartens, and shelters. The project communicated the WASH needs of vulnerable communities to policymakers and other relevant stakeholders to encourage them to prioritize WASH initiatives and attract financing to improve the situation. Capacity building and empowerment of vulnerable groups, with a focus on women and youth, were carried out to advocate for their rights to health and adequate living conditions.

Managed grants that included grant regulations management, compliance standards and donor requirements applications.

01/10/2015-31/03/2017

Georgia,

Tbilisi

CENN

Reference:

Nana Janashia

adza3o@r.postjobfree.com

Project Officer

Project: Empowering Modern Research Practices of the Regional Agriculture-Related Institutions

Client: EU Commission; Project Budget – EUR 350,000.00

The overall objective of the action was to increase the capacity of regional agriculture-related education and research institutions to meet the challenges within the agriculture, food processing, environment and rural development sectors according to international standards in response to the identified lack of research capacity existing and being utilised therein.

Tasks

Assisted the project manager in preparing thematic materials, including revising and editing project documents.

Carried out capacity-building programs and training workshops to provide the necessary skills and knowledge for high-quality research (research methodology, data analysis, scientific writing, and publication).

Provided logistical and project management support, organising and holding meetings, reporting including the preparation and dissemination of information and follow-up documentations.

2015-2019

Georgia,

Tbilisi

CENN

Reference:

Nana Janashia

adza3o@r.postjobfree.com

Information Officer

Revised various documents, collaborating with different project team members, and ensuring that the final product meets organizational standards. Prepared electronic bulletin containing environmental information CENN, maintaining and developing CENN’s website, and utilizing social media platforms to engage with stakeholders.

Served as a regional focal point for the Eastern Europe and Central Asia region within the Global Environment Facility Civil Society Organizations Network (GEF CSO Network), advocating for environmental policies and initiatives, organizing and facilitating international events and participating in meetings and conferences.

2012

Georgia,

Tbilisi

Levan Mikeladze Foundation

Intern

Analyzed media industry and the regulatory landscape and funding models that impact programming diversity and media content. Knowledgeable about MUST CARRY legislation and media funding sources.

2011

Georgia,

Tbilisi

State Minister of Georgia on European and Euro-Atlantic Integration

Intern

Researched EU funding instruments, including grants and loans and reviewed EU policy documents and programme guidelines with EU neighbourhood countries. Engaged with stakeholders to understand funding program objectives, eligibility criteria, and evaluation processes; Prepared meetings with EU officials, policymakers, and funding agency representatives. Drafted agendas, compiled relevant materials, and presented project proposals.

2010-2011

Germany,

Bremen

Der Senator für Umwelt, Bau, Verkehr und Europa Abteilung für Europa und Entwicklungszusammenarbeit

Intern

Research and evaluation of EU policies, regulations, and programs in Eastern European countries; Conducted thorough analysis of their impact and remaining up-to-date with the latest developments; Carried out a series of trainings on EU institutions and their decision-making processes for students and intrested parties.

15.Other activities (publications, etc.)

Trainings:

Institution

Certificate

Google Analytics (2023)

Google Analytics for Beginners

EBRD (2020)

Budgeting and Costing During a Crisis

USFS, (2019)

International Seminar on Mining (Arizona)

Strategia Netherlands, Online Course (2019)

Post Graduate Diploma in WASH

One World Centre, Tbilisi, Georgia (2009)

International Diploma in Human Resource/Personnel Management

One World Centre, Tbilisi, Georgia (2008)

International Diploma in Modern Management and Administration

Bournmouth Business School, Bournmouth, UK, (2007)

Diploma in Management and Business Administration

List of Publications:

Publications

-Settlements’ firewood consumption estimation based on geospatial modelling: a case study of the Republic of Georgia

Link to the publication: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/03071375.2020.1747844

-Development of a PostGIS-based method for creating risk maps of natural disasters using the example of Georgia.

Link to the publication: https://journals.vilniustech.lt/index.php/GAC/article/view/14791

Edited / Authored Works

-The Guideline on the Identification of Touristic-Recreational Forests and Their Management in Georgia.

The document was created to support the planning and implementation of multipurpose and efficient forest use, as defined by the National Forest Concept of Georgia, through strengthening touristic and recreational forest use. The guideline served as a standardized tool to assist in decision-making situations, such as: detailed criteria for the identification/selection of forest touristic-recreational areas; standards for their maintenance, management and control; issuance of their management permits to third parties (commerce and services), and the criteria for site operators’ selection; workable and clear environmental, social and cultural safeguards for inclusive and gender-sensitive local impact; specific safeguards on maintaining forest ecosystem and biodiversity, water quality, wildlife habitats; suggestions on the educational component and effective info-sharing tools (infographics, multimedia, videos, etc.) and more.

-The Mukhuri Development Plan – Green Jobs, Ecotourism and Community Resilience.

The objective was to establish a Development Plan for ‘’Mukhuri Village Landscape for Tourism and Recreation’’ based on improved shared management of a rich natural and cultural landscape, which is made more accessible and visitor-friendly through improved services and tourism products.

-Feasibility Study of the Sustainable Energy Solution Business Initiatives in Georgia.

The study analyzed selected ten entrepreneurs working on sustainable energy in terms of economic, environmental and social feasibility as well as their potential of “energy forests”, biomass production, and energy efficiency considerations. Based on the findings, the study has developed recommendations.

-Sustainable Rural Energy Solutions and Decisions.

The document provides a general framework, information, and recommendations on incentives to promote sustainable energy solutions (biomass value chain development, renewable energy, and energy efficiency technologies) that are equally accessible to men and women. The "Sustainable Rural Energy Solutions and Decisions" study delivers systems evaluation of the renewables industry as well as recommendations for the growth of the whole value chain, from production to the ultimate consumers in four target regions. Furthermore, each regional plan addresses regional specificities by providing suggestions for the implementation of measures designated to the public and civic sectors for short, medium, and long-term periods of time in order to promote rural energy solutions. Moreover, plans give baseline information for pilot project implementation.

-The Guidelines on Sustainable Management of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) in Georgia.

The document aims to promote the sustainable management of NTFPs in Georgia and support the strengthening of capacities of national institutions in resource assessment, planning, and sustainable harvesting, and the use of NTFPs under climate change. The Guidelines are intended to serve as a tool for policy and decision-makers to integrate sustainable management of NTFPs into forest policy and strategic documents, improve technical capacity, observe the trends in the sustainable production of NTFPs under climate change conditions, introduce the best practice examples, and support decision-making processes.

-Institutional Development Model and Business plan for the National Forestry Agency of Georgia.

-The document focuses on the development of the forestry unit under the National Forestry Agency of Georgia, where the unit would be responsible for commercial forest use. The business plan includes models for different scenarios, institutional setting and women's engagement in the forestry sector.

-Affordable, Accessible & Safe Water and Energy, Shadow report of Georgia's progress towards SDGs 6 & 7.

The report identifies the current challenges and develops respective recommendations to accelerate Georgia’s progress towards SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy). The paper examines official government documents, action plans, policies, and studies by Georgian think tanks, international donors, and regional non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Stakeholders from the Guria region were interviewed and surveyed. In addition, acquired official quantitative data was compared to nationalized SDG 6 & 7 indicator targets. The analysis served as the basis for the identification of challenges and development of recommendations to achieve Sustainable Development Goals.

-Assessment of the Potential of Non-Timber Forest Products for Nature-Positive Recovery in Georgia.

The goal of the study was to evaluate the non-timber forest products' potential for commercial application in the Guria region of Georgia. The study included analysis of export potential, qualitative and quantitative data analysis, Georgian market assessment, value chain study, etc.

-The Assessment of Water, Sanitary, and Hygienic Conditions in Georgia.

The assessment's major objective was to assess the condition of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) in schools and kindergartens in ten Georgian regions. The assessment utilized the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) methodology for global assessment and monitoring of water, sanitation, and hygiene conditions in schools, which includes two main methods: a) face-to-face interviews with school principals and administrators and b) observation of infrastructure and student hygienic behavior.

-Needs assessment for the Forest Product Producer’s Association.

The assessment investigates the challenges and requirements in Georgia's forest products (non-timber) industry. The study analyzes the NTFP sector's financial, legal, and market conditions and makes recommendations for improvement.

-The strategy document for the Forest Product Producer's Association (2021 -2025).

The “Georgian Forest Products “Association’s strategy is an action plan for the organization's growth and sustainability over the course of the following four years. The Association "Georgian Forest Products" was established with the purpose of promoting the commercial use of forest products in a sustainable manner. The strategy outlines objectives, which will be achieved by encouraging private, cooperative, sectoral, state, and public interest-driven collaboration amongst people and organizations involved in the procurement, cultivation, manufacture, and sale of raw materials.

-Processes and Pathways to Environmental Conflicts

The objective of the study was to understand the drivers of increased conflict at the local and regional levels in Georgia by researching the most common processes and pathways leading to the conflicts, which arise from mining, roads construction and other large scale projects that are regulated by the Environmental Assessment Code of Georgia.

Contact this candidate