I am a seasoned policy and research expert with over 10+ years of experience in driving through analytic and in-depth research into policy problems and providing possible policy solutions; effective government engagement: effectively tackling of sector specific Policy needs by advocating for efficient, all-inclusive and enabling policy and regulatory frameworks; mentoring and developing human talent among staff and stakeholders in addressing Policy and research related tasks; and leading the formation of strategic partnerships and alliances with other stakeholders (Public and Private Sectors) to influence relevant policy changes of interest. I have strong strategic thinking skills to rapidly evaluate different programme insights and policy issues, identify their value to an external engagement strategy and provide advice for policy influencing work. In addition, Shimba has strong managerial skills and has led several teams, in ensuring the development of proper policy guiding framework, procedures, and analysis as well as ensuring timely and quality provision of evidenced-based research to support policy advocacy. I also have extensive experience working on agriculture and private sector competitiveness projects in Kenya funded by multiple international donors, including USAID, DFID, and World Bank. He is an expert in developing policy oriented strategic plans; subsequent policy& research work plan and budget to support the strategy; the Making Markets Work for the Poor (M4P) approach, and value chain analysis and development. I currently serve as a Senior Manager Insights (Kenya) at Gatsby Africa, where he helps in identifying potential networks and relationships that are valuable to programmes (Water, Livestock, Aquaculture, Agri-inputs, Commercial Forestry and Textile and Apparel)/GA's sector transformation work; develops and maintains strategic relationships; communicates GA's approach and position to partners on key matters of interest; influencing the design & implementation of a government engagement strategy in-country; and developing insights for internal and external engagement/advocacy work with the government, private sector and other development partners. Previously, Chris worked at Kenya Markets Trust to make KMT’s policy engagement more effective, influential and sustainable on the 5-year, £48,195,635 program to reduce poverty in Kenya.