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Mail: mail@wissamsawaya.com     ---     Mob. Num: +961 3 210 381   

I hold a Master’s degree in Business Management, equipping me with strong knowledge and skills across business growth and strategy. As the author of Ink to Rethink and a contributor to Developing Entrepreneurial Mindsets, Ideas and Opportunities, I bring a deep understanding of entrepreneurship and practical business thinking.

My diverse background spans education, consulting, and business development. I’ve helped individuals and organizations identify opportunities, overcome challenges, and achieve sustainable growth. Through strategic thinking and hands-on experience, I aim to make a lasting impact.

Currently, I focus on business development, teaching, and consulting—helping others thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape. I value integrity, teamwork, and smart planning, and I’m committed to ongoing learning, staying current with trends and technologies to drive innovation and success.



  • 1- Business Consultant
      Founder & Co-owner of "MindTheCracks" Consultancy  

    1. Specialising in entrepreneurship concept development, soft skills training, and strategic planning.
    2. Conducted numerous business assessments and growth strategies for startups and SMEs.
    3. Provided cross-functional advisory across finance, marketing, management, and HR.


      2- Business Instructor – Various Lebanese Universities
  •     2004 – Present 

    1. Over two decades of teaching experience at several prominent universities in Lebanon.
    2. Courses delivered include: Entrepreneurship, Strategic Management, Marketing, Business Planning, Organisational Behaviour, and Financial Management.
    3. Known for combining academic theory with practical business insights to enhance student learning.
    4. Actively contributed to curriculum development and student mentorship programs.


  3- SME Marketing Manager - BLOM Bank 
     June 2014 – June 2021 | Nov 2024 - Present  


    1. Currently leading SME marketing initiatives with a focus on growth strategy, customer acquisition, and product development (rejoined in 2024 after a prior 7-year tenure).
    2. Spearheading campaigns and partnerships to boost financial inclusion and SME access to capital.


   4- Business Development & Implementation Manager DAI/ USAID (TIF)  
     June 2021 – Oct 2024  

Led initiatives under the USAID Lebanon Trade and Investment Facilitation (TIF) project to boost Lebanon's export competitiveness across multiple sectors:

Key Responsibilities:

  1. Designed and implemented sector-specific export strategies and action plans.
  2. Monitored KPIs and expanded market access for Lebanese products.
  3. Oversaw flagship initiatives such as:

    1. Establishment of Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) for tourism.
    2. Support to 15 Lebanese wineries to enter U.S. markets.
    3. Rollout of a comprehensive full value chain development project.
    4. Development of job platforms and cluster initiatives in the wood sector.
    5. Capacity building for MSMEs to improve export readiness.
    6. Implementation of energy audits for 17 industrial firms to reduce production costs.


Strategic Contributions:

  1. Circular economy frameworks.
  2. Food security strategy design.
  3. Import substitution strategy formulation.
  4. International market access planning and cluster development.



   5- Credit Officer - SGBL Bank
      July 2008 – June 2014
 

   6- Credit Officer - IBL Bank  
     January 2004 – March 2008


Training Certificates Received

2020: Advanced Communication Skills  
MEIRC Training & Consulting

  
July 2019: Banking Ethics  
ESA – Beirut (BDL Requirement Test)  


November 2016: Collaborative Systems & Relationships  
Beyond Consulting  


April 2015: Lebanese Financial Regulation Certificate  

ESA – Beirut (BDL Requirement Test)  


December 2012: Introduction to Securities & Investment  
CSI - Chartered Institute for Securities & Investments (BDL Requirement Test)  


May 2011: Effective Training Session in Communication  
Management Training Center - Beirut  


November 2006: Sales Techniques (Selling Banking Products)  
Beyond Consulting  


December 2006: Money Laundering System Fight  
Banks Association Committee


Services

With over 21 years of professional experience spanning the banking and education sectors, I have developed a comprehensive and well-rounded skill set in areas such as financial management, strategic planning, and client engagement. 
My extensive career in the banking industry has not only sharpened my analytical and decision-making abilities but also provided me with a deep understanding of economic patterns, evolving market behaviours, and effective risk mitigation techniques. These insights have proven essential in navigating the complexities of today’s fast-paced financial landscape.

In addition to my accomplishments in banking, I have successfully transitioned into the field of business consulting, and collaborated with a wide range of clients, including large corporations as well as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), offering tailored advice and strategic direction.

My ability to assess business challenges and craft customised solutions has enabled many organisations to enhance performance, improve operational efficiency, and maintain a competitive edge in their respective industries.

Through my combined experience in finance, education, and consulting, I continued to be a trusted adviser and strategic partner, committed to driving sustainable business growth and long-term success for the clients and institutions he serves.

Areas of Expertise / What We Can Offer You:
1. Workshops & Soft Training
2. Marketing Services
3. Logistics & Supply Chain
4. R & D
5. Administration
6. Complete Business Solution
7. Facilities Management
8. Finance Advisory
9. HR Assessment and Re-engineering
10. Implementation

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PROJECTS

50

PARTnerS

My Partners