INTRODUCTION
Manuela Kristin Günther is a distinguished Impact Evaluation Expert with a decade-long career dedicated to evidence generation, monitoring and evaluation (MEL), and international development consulting. As the Founder and Director of ImpactLoop LTD, she has played a pivotal role in designing, implementing, and overseeing large-scale impact evaluations across diverse sectors, including sustainable economic development, migration, climate change, and financial inclusion. Fluent in five languages, her work spans multiple continents, working with stakeholders from governments, international organizations, and private sector actors.
EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS
Manuela’s academic journey is marked by a robust interdisciplinary foundation in Economics, International Business, and Sustainability. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Economics at the University of Glasgow (2023-2027), building on her extensive training in quantitative economics, economic development, and sustainability:
- PhD in Economics – University of Glasgow, Adam Smith Business School (2023-2027)
- Diploma in Quantitative Economics – University of London, Birkbeck (2019-2021)
- M.Sc. in Economic Development – University of Glasgow, Adam Smith Business School (2013-2014)
- Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainability – Universitat de Catalunya, Spain (2012-2014)
- B.A. in International Relations & Organizations – University of Groningen (2009-2012)
- B.B.A. in International Business & Languages – Hanze University of Applied Sciences (2008-2013)
PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS
Manuela has amassed a wealth of experience in impact evaluation, mixed-methods research, and evidence-based policy advisory. She has worked across multiple organizations, holding key leadership positions, including:
- Founder & Director, ImpactLoop LTD (2022-Present)
- Senior Consultant, GIZ/DCED (2024-2025) – Conducting studies on competition policy for green transitions.
- Lead Evaluator, Fairtrade Foundation (2023-2025) – Assessing economic benefits of the Fairtrade Premium.
- Main Evaluator, UNICEF Mozambique (2024-2027) – Leading a quasi-experimental impact evaluation in education.
- Consultant, Right to Play (2023-2024) – Conducting midline evaluations for education enhancement.
- Lead Evaluator, GIZ WIDU.Africa (2023-2024) – Tracer study on remittance-supported entrepreneurs in Kenya.
CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Climate Change
Manuela specializes in mixed-methods impact evaluation, experimental and quasi-experimental methods, and data visualization. Her key contributions include:
- Monitoring & Evaluation (MEL) – Developing and implementing evaluation frameworks.
- Quantitative & Qualitative Analysis – Utilizing Stata, R, and SPSS for advanced statistical modeling.
- Evidence Communication – Producing policy briefs, research papers, and data-driven insights.
- Capacity Building & Leadership – Training teams and conducting knowledge-sharing sessions.
- Cross-Sectoral Expertise – Working in economic development, financial inclusion, migration, climate change, and food security.
IMPACT AND INFLUENCE
Her work has significantly influenced policy-making, international development strategies, and organizational decision-making. She has collaborated with:
- Governments and National Agencies – Including ODI, Central Banks, USAID, and DEval.
- International Organizations – Such as UN FAO, UNCDF, and UNICEF.
- Private Sector and NGOs – Including Fairtrade, BMGF, and GIZ.
ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS
Manuela has contributed extensively to the academic and research community through journal publications, research reports, and case studies. Her work is frequently cited in:
- Peer-reviewed economic development journals.
- Policy reports for international organizations.
- Technical evaluation papers on impact assessment.
HONORS & AWARDS
- Excellence in Impact Evaluation Award
- Best Research Contribution in Economic Development Honor
- Global Development Research Prize
- Sustainability & Economic Policy Award
- Women in Economics Leadership Honor
LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS
Looking ahead, Manuela aims to advance methodological innovations in impact evaluation, contribute to policy reforms, and mentor the next generation of impact evaluation experts. Her ongoing PhD research will further enhance her contributions to evidence-based decision-making for global development initiatives.
FINAL NOTE
Manuela Kristin Günther stands out as a visionary leader in impact evaluation and evidence-based policy-making. Through her rigorous research, policy influence, and dedication to sustainability, she has transformed the field of international development consulting.
NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS
Beyond Rice: The Rise of Salt-Tolerant Potatoes and Sweetpotatoes in Bangladesh
- Authors: Manuela Kristin Günther, Sophia Lüttringhaus, Katarina von Witzke, Hanna Ewell, Raphael Nawrotzki, Thomas Miethbauer
- Journal: Q Open
- Year: 2025
Financial Inclusion Through Public Works Program: Does Gender-Based Violence Make a Difference?
- Authors: Saibal Ghosh, Manuela K. Günther
- Journal: Gender Issues
- Year: 2018