Ian Duncan Kola
Quality Assurance Manager
Nairobi
Summary
Quality Assurance Manager with experience leading large operational teams within international research projects across Africa. Demonstrated success implementing scalable quality assurance frameworks, optimizing workflows, and translating complex data into operational strategy. Recognized for building high-performing teams, strengthening cross-border collaboration, and maintaining gold-standard data quality benchmarks within multi-country programs.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
2
2
Languages
Work History
Quality Assurance Manager
FamilySearch International – Africa Oral Genealogy Project
Kisumu
01.2022 - Current
- Led and supervised a Quality Assurance team of 40+ staff responsible for verification and integrity of genealogical interviews collected across African field operations.
- Designed and deployed monitoring and reporting systems using Excel and Airtable, improving operational oversight and enabling real-time performance tracking.
- Partnered with Operations Managers to implement performance frameworks that strengthened cross-team coordination and improved productivity.
- Directed quality assurance initiatives that contributed to the project receiving the Gold Award for Quality.
Research Assistant
Sprout Insure
Nairobi
03.2021 - 04.2021
- Conducted international research initiatives covering Africa, North America, and Asia focusing on agriculture, weather data, and insurance technology.
- Collected primary agricultural and insurance data from 30+ smallholder farmers in Machakos County and Kirinyaga County, focusing on crop production, climate risk, and insurance accessibility.
- Analyzed 100+ crop and climate data points supporting global research on agricultural micro-insurance across three continents.
Education
BSc - Communication & Public Relations
Moi University
Eldoret, Kenya12.2022
Skills
Data collection
Teamwork and collaboration
Microsoft office
Research paper writing
Data analysis
Research and analysis
Certification
Udemy Project Management - Distinction - 3 months
Timeline
Udemy Project Management - Distinction - 3 months
07-2025
Quality Assurance Manager
FamilySearch International – Africa Oral Genealogy Project
01.2022 - Current
Research Assistant
Sprout Insure
03.2021 - 04.2021
BSc - Communication & Public Relations
Moi University
Leadership Impact
- Supervised and mentored 40+ QA staff across African field operations.
- Supported operational programs spanning multiple African countries.
- Coordinated humanitarian food distribution supporting 500+ families during COVID-19.