Among donor agencies and Implementing Partners (IPs), there is a widely perceived shortage of qualified senior leaders in Market Systems Development (MSD). This is despite more than a decade of investments dedicated to building capacity in the field of international development from both sides of the industry. In the sixth installment of the Canopy Lab’s Inclusion and Leadership series, we set out, with generous support from Mercy Corps, to understand the structural barriers and biases influencing this phenomenon. Specifically, we asked the question, “What are the key enablers which contribute to the career transition from ‘national’ to ‘international’ senior staff for MSD professionals?”
Maha Elhayek
Senior Consultant
I specialize in market systems development in fragile and conflict-affected settings. Over the past decade, I have advised programs across the MENA region, Africa, and Eastern Europe. My work spans agricultural and industrial sectors, focusing on market systems assessments, program design, and strategies that expand opportunities for marginalized groups and support gender mainstreaming. I enjoy applying systems thinking to uncover structural barriers, co-create locally grounded solutions, and advise on private sector partnerships. I am currently passionate about applying MSD approaches to address climate change challenges.