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Kevin Murphy
CEO at JE Austin Associates
Kevin Murphy is the President and CEO of J.E. Austin Associates, Inc., a company that has successfully implemented over 650 projects in 127 countries focused on economic growth and poverty reduction. The company's projects are primarily centered on agriculture, private sector development, entrepreneurship, and workforce development.1
Murphy has made significant contributions to international development. He was asked by USAID to develop its methodology for conducting private sector assessments and later introduced national competitiveness initiatives to USAID, which have become a substantial part of USAID's economic growth portfolio. He also served on the World Economic Forum Global Agenda Council on Competitiveness for 5 years, contributing to think-pieces on the Competitiveness of Cities and National Competitiveness Councils.1
Throughout his career, Murphy has worked directly with current and former heads of state as well as business leaders in shaping national economic strategies. His expertise has been applied to various projects, including city competitiveness strategies for both Jerusalem and Medina, the second holiest city in the Islamic world.1
As of 2022, J.E. Austin Associates was implementing 22 projects globally under Murphy's leadership. In addition to his role at J.E. Austin Associates, Murphy is also the Chairman of the Board of Sustainable Development International, a firm focused on addressing climate change. His extensive experience and global perspective are evident in his work, which has taken him to various parts of the world, including remote locations like French Guiana and Suriname.1
Regarding his educational background, Murphy holds an MBA from Harvard Business School, an MPA from Harvard Kennedy School of Government, and a BSFS from Georgetown University School of Foreign Service. He also has a Baccalaureate Speciale in Theology from Universite de Louvain.1
Murphy is also a co-author of the Manual for Action in the Private Sector (MAPS), which has been implemented in over 20 countries. His expertise has led him to work with seven current or former heads of state and numerous ministers on economic policy. His contributions to the field of economic development and competitiveness are widely recognized and have had a significant impact on global economic strategies.2


