Ottavia Barone Criss
About Ottavia Barone Criss
Ottavia Barone Criss is a Business Development Capture Manager at Bixal, with a focus on economic development and governance in the MENA region. She has extensive experience in business development and international relations, having worked with various organizations including Palladium and DAI.
Work at Bixal
Ottavia Barone Criss has served as a Business Development Capture Manager at Bixal since 2021. In this role, she leads business strategy and capture efforts, focusing on designing and delivering human-centered strategies and transformative technologies for both international and U.S. federal clients. Her work involves collaborating with various stakeholders to enhance business opportunities and drive growth within the organization.
Previous Experience at Palladium
Prior to her current position, Ottavia worked at Palladium: Make It Possible for two years as a Senior Associate in the Economic Growth and Governance Practice from 2018 to 2020. She then transitioned to the role of Business Development Manager in the same practice for one year from 2020 to 2021. During her tenure, she contributed to initiatives aimed at promoting economic growth and effective governance.
Educational Background
Ottavia Barone Criss holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Affairs from the University of Wales and a Bachelor of Arts in International Affairs from John Cabot University, both completed between 2006 and 2009. She furthered her education by obtaining a Master of Arts in International Development from the American University School of International Service from 2011 to 2013. In 2021, she also earned a Certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace from the University of South Florida Muma College of Business.
Regional Focus and Expertise
Ottavia has a particular regional focus on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Her expertise includes economic and private sector development, effective governance, and digital transformation. She has experience working with international donors such as USAID, the World Bank, the United Nations, and the Department of State, contributing to various projects aimed at enhancing development outcomes in these regions.
Early Career and Internships
Ottavia began her career with various internships and positions that laid the foundation for her professional journey. She worked as a Communications Intern at the Guarini Institute for Public Affairs in 2008 and served as a Public Advocacy and Government Relations Assistant at The Abraham Fund Initiatives in 2011. Additionally, she was a JFCA Assistant Editor at FAO in 2009, gaining valuable experience in communications and public affairs.