Kieran Holmes is an accomplished development consultant renowned for his adept leadership, tax policy expertise, and tax administration acumen, which he has honed over a remarkable four-decade career. He has consistently delivered impressive and immediate results, even in the most demanding environments.

Born in the UK and raised in Ireland, Kieran earned his degree in economics from Trinity College, Dublin in 1977. He commenced his career with the Irish Revenue Commissioners, where he immersed himself in tax and accounting studies, eventually attaining the position of a higher-grade Inspector of Taxes.

In 1984, at the age of 31, Kieran embarked on an international journey with his family, assuming leadership of the tax administration in Kiribati, situated in the Central Pacific. His tenure witnessed a striking 400% sustained increase in revenue over six years, a testament to his transformative leadership.

The 1990s saw Kieran's expertise sought after in Africa, where he played pivotal roles in Lesotho and later in Eswatini (formerly Swaziland). In both countries, he spearheaded the development of new tax legislation, enhanced tax administration efficiency, and facilitated negotiations for double taxation agreements, fostering improved business environments.

Subsequently, Kieran dedicated himself to supporting post-conflict and challenging environments, serving for four years in Yemen and eight years in Rwanda. He also provided critical remote assistance in establishing Botswana's new revenue authority and in supporting Ghana’s plans for a similar institution.

Assuming the role of the inaugural Commissioner General, Kieran led the newly established Office Burundais des Recettes from June 2010 to 2014, overseeing comprehensive tax reform efforts in Burundi before passing the leadership to his deputy.

His expertise then took him to South Sudan, Jordan, and Ethiopia and he assisted Burkina Faso with a high-level tax reform strategy before spending a brief period in the United Kingdom. Since January 2020, Kieran has served as the Chief of Party for USAID’s Domestic Revenue Mobilization for Development project in Uganda.

Kieran is distinguished by his unwavering commitment to development work, leveraging his personal and professional skills to significantly bolster the capacities of the states in which he operates. A natural leader, he provides visionary and strategic leadership, particularly in countries grappling with significant economic challenges, often in the aftermath of conflict.