Ben Taylor, PhD

Ben Taylor, PhD is the CEO of Agora Global Ltd, a company focused on sustainable development solutions.23 He is an expert in systemic approaches to development and has played a leading role in conceptualizing and implementing market systems development (MSD) programs.3

Professional Background

Dr. Taylor has extensive experience in private sector development, particularly in applying market systems development approaches to various contexts such as education, water, post-conflict states, resilience, fragility, and basic services.1 He specializes in sub-Saharan Africa, with a particular focus on Ethiopia, where he has worked for over 15 years.1

Expertise and Contributions

Ben Taylor is known for:

• Assisting in the development of new concepts in private sector development, including the Making Markets Work for the Poor approach and systemic change1
• Implementing MSD programs in challenging environments like Lebanon, Syria, and Afghanistan4
• Contributing to academic and practical discussions through various publications and resources on systemic change, market systems, and development approaches1

Professional Associations

Dr. Taylor has worked with a wide range of organizations, including:

• Public and private funders such as DFID, USAID, SIDA, SDC, and the World Bank
• Humanitarian NGOs like GOAL and Mercy Corps
• Gatsby Africa1

He also holds academic positions, including:

• Board memberships for several journals
• Guest lectureships
• Senior Research Fellowship at the University of Durham
• Membership on the Markets in Crisis Advisory Board1

Ben Taylor's work focuses on innovative and sustainable solutions for both public and private sector clients, with a particular emphasis on systemic development approaches.