Bob Jones to take over as new director of African operations at WYG

Bob Jones has joined UK-based management consultancy WYG as the director for its operations in Africa. Jones has nearly two decades of experience in the professional services industry, including a five-year spell as Director at Big Four accounting and advisory firm PwC’s Nairobi Office.

Management consulting firm WYG is looking to expand its operations across Africa. The UK-based firm offers services in the broad areas of value creation & protection, and risk management. The firm is active in a number of domains, with heavy emphasis on infrastructure and the built environment, and project management therein.

The firm’s decision to bolster its operations in Africa through the appointment of Bob Jones comes as no surprise, therefore, given that the continent is currently experiencing a flurry of development activity. A gap in infrastructure funding in the region has brought about a spike in the number of projects being initiated in several countries, particularly in the energy sector.

Jones holds a Masters in Development Economics, and has held a number of prestigious positions throughout his career, starting with the role of Economic Advisor to the UK Home Office, followed by a stint as a Policy Advisor to the HM Treasury in the UK. His career in the government sector came to an end in 2009, when he completed a seven-year spell at the UK’s Department for International Development, where he ended up as a Senior Economic Advisor.

In the private sector, Jones’ career is equally impressive, starting with a two-year spell as a Manager at Big Four accounting and advisory firm Deloitte, followed by another two years at Atos International as an Executive Consultant. Since 2013, Jones has been a Director and Manager of the Strategy & Practice division at PwC in Nairobi, Kenya.

Jones will remain in Nairobi as he embarks on his new role as Africa Director at WYG. In his new position, Jones is expected to assist with international development at WYG Africa, with a special emphasis on projects in the infrastructure & development, climate resilience, and governance domains.

Commenting on his new role, Jones said, “It is a fantastic time to be in Africa, as the continent continues to grow its diverse economies and societies. WYG is a long-term partner in Africa’s growth narrative and I look forward to working to expand our capabilities across the continent.”

WYG’s Managing Director of the International Development division, Jesper Damgaard added, “Freddy’s appointment is an important move for WYG as we take steps to further enhance our growing capabilities and expertise in Africa. His extensive knowledge of the African market and global experience with international development and donor-funded projects make him a valuable addition to the team.”