Our Team
Dr. M. Essis
Chief Executive Officer
Dr. Meledje is a seasoned nonprofit finance and compliance leader with extensive experience strengthening fiscal systems, audit readiness, and organizational accountability. He holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a Master’s in Global Finance from the City University of New York (CUNY), along with a Doctorate in Management from the Virginia University of Lynchburg. He has served in key leadership roles—including Accounting Manager, Finance Manager for Grants, and Country Director—where he built strong financial infrastructures and guided organizations through complex regulatory environments. Bilingual in English and French, Dr. Essis is committed to advancing best practices, ensuring compliance, and supporting mission-driven organizations with transparent, sustainable financial management.
Yaya Diarrassouba
Vice President of Financial Management
Yaya is an accomplished financial professional with deep expertise in accounting operations, fiscal oversight, and nonprofit financial management. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Finance and Economics from CUNY Lehman College and a master’s degree in accounting from
Brooklyn College. Before joining Ivory Consultant Group, Yaya served as Assistant Controller, Senior Accountant,
and Assistant Director of Finance, gaining extensive experience in financial reporting, internal
controls, and grant compliance. He is passionate about implementing best practices and strengthening financial systems that promote transparency, efficiency, and long-term organizational stability.
Serge Kanga
Controller
Serge is a dedicated accounting and financial operations professional with strong expertise in managing organizational finances, maintaining internal controls, and supporting audit-ready systems. He holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Finance from Pace University and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from St. Francis, providing a strong academic foundation for his leadership in financial operations. As Controller, Serge oversees day-to-day accounting functions, ensures accuracy in financial reporting, and strengthens the organization’s fiscal infrastructure. He is known for his disciplined approach, attention to detail, and commitment to maintaining high standards of financial integrity. Serge plays a key role in supporting compliance, improving workflow efficiency, and ensuring that financial practices align with organizational goals and regulatory expectations.
Daniel Adoe
Senior Grant Manager
Daniel has more than 15 years of experience in grant management, overseeing complex
portfolios across city, state, and federal funding streams. His expertise includes grant compliance, fiscal reporting, contract oversight, and program monitoring. Daniel is known for his meticulous attention to detail, strong command of regulatory requirements, and ability to guide organizations through the full grant lifecycle. His leadership ensures that funded programs operate with accuracy, accountability, and alignment with organizational mission and funder expectations.
Lindsay Baldwin
Grant Manager
Lindsay is a skilled grant management professional with extensive experience working with city, state, and federal funders. She holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from St. Francis College and an MBA, giving her a strong foundation in financial analysis, compliance, and organizational stewardship. Lindsay excels in grant administration, reporting, and fiscal oversight, and is known for her ability to translate complex funder requirements into clear, actionable processes. Her
commitment to best practices and collaborative approach makes her a valuable asset to the organizations she supports.
