I help organizations navigate the complexities of conducting business in west, central, and southern Africa. That can involve providing support in areas such as navigating regulations, logistics, marketing, finance, negotiating Power Purchase Agreements (PPA), sourcing materials and services, negotiating contracts, business development, international business facilitation, and addressing cultural differences. Positioned at the intersection of strategic initiatives, my consultancy portfolio showcases a 650-hectare development project in Cape Coast, Ghana. This endeavor is aligned with my leadership role in a substantial 200-megawatt energy venture, complemented by a concurrent 50-megawatt energy project. I bring extensive experience in the mining and energies sector, providing consulting services in resource procurement, currier, equipment acquisition, and negotiation of equipment sales. I have a proven track record in locating suitable land for farming, energy projects, and mining operations, with the knowledge and network to facilitate necessary studies and partnerships. Moreover, my strategic partnership with a globally renowned sports entity serves as a testament to the breadth and variety of my endeavors, adding depth to my professional narrative and offering compelling opportunities for future collaborations. With a commitment to driving impactful projects and fostering sustainable growth from inception to completion, I am dedicated to leveraging my expertise to support organizations in achieving their goals in the region. I specialize in taking ideas and nurturing them into fully functional businesses, ensuring they meet their objectives across a diverse range of industries.
Ruwenzori Strategy Group
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ConsultantRuwenzori Strategy Group Sep 2022 - PresentBoulder, Colorado, United StatesProvided market assessments and corporate structuring advice to clients in AfricaDeveloped strategies and plans to implement business visions in African marketSupported clients in operational logistics, data acquisition and analysis, equipment procurement, government relations, concession acquisition, and field program managementLeveraged relationships and in-country experience to support clients' entry into the African marketsHelped clients navigate permitting, licensing, compliance, and other regulatory requirements in AfricaAssisted clients in identifying business opportunities and growth strategies in African markets
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DirectorCape Coast Marina City Aug 2015 - Apr 2022London, United KingdomDirected the development of a 650-hectare mixed-use project, encompassing residential, commercial, and recreational facilities.Led the utility-scale development of two major solar energy projects: a 200MW solar farm and a 50MW solar farm.Managed the entire lifecycle of these projects, from conceptualization through to completion, acquiring comprehensive knowledge in establishing, managing, and expanding energy companies in Ghana.Successfully navigated complex regulatory environments, secured necessary approvals, and engaged with diverse stakeholders to bring large-scale infrastructure projects to fruition in West Africa.
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Managing DirectorGhana Ocean Racing Aug 2012 - Apr 2020Alicante, Valencian Community, SpainI led Ghana Ocean Racing, the first African international open-ocean sailing team. In this role, I was responsible for strategic planning, international engagement, and overseeing all aspects of the team’s operations. My key achievements include:Strategic Leadership: I developed and implemented the vision for Ghana Ocean Racing, positioning the team as a pioneering force in African sports and establishing ocean racing as a recognized sport in Ghana. My work involved introducing ocean racing to the Ghanaian public and engaging key stakeholders to support the sport’s development.International Engagement: Under my leadership, Ghana Ocean Racing gained significant international exposure. The team successfully passed the rigorous qualification process for the Barcelona World Race. Additionally, we participated in a mini transatlantic race in Antigua, further solidifying our presence in the global sailing community. The team also engaged with the international sailing community as guests aboard the EU-Gazprom boat in Valencia, Spain.Marketing and Media Strategy: I led all marketing and media efforts, expanding the team’s online presence from zero to over 500,000 followers on social media. I orchestrated comprehensive media campaigns that included high-profile interviews and features, generating millions of impressions worldwide. Our strategic media outreach included appearances on Ghana’s TV3 and various international platforms, significantly enhancing the team’s global profile.Government Relations: I worked closely with Ghana’s Sports Ministry and other governmental bodies to secure official recognition and support for the team. This collaboration was essential in establishing ocean racing as a respected sport within Ghana, ensuring its sustainability and growth.http://vimeo.com/62208842Facebook.com/GhanaOceanRacing
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Interim Executive DirectorTake Back Our Routes Nov 2013 - Apr 2015Cape Coast, Ghana; Denver, Colorado; Paris, France; Raleigh, North CarolinaEstablished a nonprofit foundation dedicated to empowering Africa through marine sports and promoting ocean conservation. Responsibilities and achievements include:Foundation Creation: Co-founded the Take Back Our Routes foundation, focusing on the symbolic and historical significance of Africa’s marine routes.Collaborations: Collaborated with Ghana Ocean Racing and other stakeholders to advance the foundation’s mission, leveraging the nonprofit’s platform for broader environmental and social impact.Revitalization: In later years, revitalized the foundation to support environmental remediation efforts as part of the Cape Coast Marina City project.http://vimeo.com/84420258Facebook.com/TakeBackOurRoutes
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CounselorHarm Reduction Therapy Institute Aug 2007 - Aug 2013Boulder, Colorado, United StatesCertified Addiction Counselor (CAC) Training and Professional Practice2007-2008: CAC I Certification and Psychotherapist TrainingI completed 112 hours of specialized education, covering essential topics such as Addiction Counseling Skills, Client Record Management, Principles of Addiction Treatment, Ethics and Jurisprudence, Culturally Informed Treatment, Infectious Diseases in Addiction Treatment, and Pharmacology. This foundational training was complemented by 1,000 hours of clinically supervised work at the Harm Reduction Therapy Institute, where I provided therapy under strict supervision, focusing on harm reduction strategies while upholding the highest ethical standards.2008-2010: CAC II CertificationBuilding on my initial certification, I undertook an additional 126 hours of advanced training, including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Group Counseling Skills, Clinical Assessment and Treatment Planning, Advanced Pharmacology, Co-Occurring Disorders, and Trauma-Informed Care. During this period, I accumulated 2,000 more hours of supervised clinical experience, bringing my total to 3,000 hours. This rigorous training culminated in passing both the NCAC II Exam and the Jurisprudence Exam, affirming my advanced competence in the field.2010-2012: CAC III - Certified Addiction Counselor and Licensed TherapistI achieved the prestigious CAC III certification, the highest level, after completing 56 hours of intensive, specialized training in Clinical Supervision, Advanced Motivational Interviewing, and Professional Practice. This certification required an additional 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, culminating in a total of 5,000 hours. Recognized by the Colorado Office of Behavioral Health (OBH), I became both a Certified Addiction Counselor Level III and a Licensed Therapist. Passing the NCAC II Exam solidified my standing as a top-tier professional in addiction counseling and psychotherapy
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Administrative Assistant Office ManagerLawfirm May 2007 - Apr 2008Boulder, Colorado, United StatesSupported a leading legal firm with client outreach and business development. Key contributions included:Business Development: Played a central role in expanding the firm’s client base by identifying potential clients, conducting outreach, and managing initial consultations.Client Acquisition: Facilitated the acquisition of new clients by managing leads, scheduling consultations, and ensuring smooth communication.Operational Support: Contributed to the day-to-day operations of the firm, streamlining processes, and improving client communication. -
Sales RepresentativeRenewable Choice Energy Apr 2006 - Sep 2006Boulder, Colorado, United StatesSales and Client Engagement:Conducted sales meetings with residential and business clients, educating them on renewable energy offsets and the benefits of wind energy. Assisted clients in purchasing wind energy credits and participating in wind farm investments.Educational and Market Research:Gained a comprehensive understanding of the U.S. energy grid, renewable energy sources, and the competitiveness within the renewable energy market.Business Development:Contributed to Renewable Choice Energy’s efforts to establish its niche in the renewable energy sector by providing insights from direct client interactions, helping the company refine its strategy and grow its customer base. -
EquestrianYumeewarra Farm Jul 2004 - Jun 2005Apex, North Carolina, United StatesWorked intensively at a premier equestrian facility, specializing in the training and preparation of show horses for competition. Responsibilities included:Training and Riding: Daily training and exercise of show horses, focusing on hunters and jumpers to ensure their optimal performance in competitions.Health and Fitness Management: Managed the physical conditioning of horses, ensuring their fitness and readiness for events through tailored exercise routines.Competition Preparation: Worked closely with horse owners and trainers to develop competitive strategies, resulting in successful showings at regional and national events.
James Ragland Darden Education Details
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Colorado School For Family TherapyCounseling Psychology
Frequently Asked Questions about James Ragland Darden
What company does James Ragland Darden work for?
James Ragland Darden works for Ruwenzori Strategy Group
What is James Ragland Darden's role at the current company?
James Ragland Darden's current role is Strategy Consultant | Energy Development Expert | Startup | African Business Development | Due diligence analysis | sports.
What schools did James Ragland Darden attend?
James Ragland Darden attended Colorado School For Family Therapy, North Carolina State University, University Of Colorado At Boulder.
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