Paul Lagunes

About Paul Lagunes

I’m a social scientist (PhD, Yale Political Science) and public sector consultant with over 20 years of experience turning complex research into high-impact, evidence-driven solutions. I’ve partnered with institutions like the Department of State, New York City’s Department of Investigation, and the Inter-American Development Bank to deliver strategic insights that shape policies and drive measurable change. My expertise spans geopolitical risk analysis, governance, corruption control, and institutional effectiveness.My work bridges rigorous analysis with practical execution. As Lead Evaluator for the Department of State’s Office of Foreign Assistance, I\'ve conducted in-depth studies, including a detailed country profile for the Office of the Coordinator on Global Anti-Corruption. My groundbreaking study in Peru, featured in my Oxford University Press book, saved the Peruvian treasury millions by tackling corruption in public infrastructure. At Guidehouse, where I serve as a Managing Consultant and Subject Matter Specialist, I’ve supported the U.S. Office of the Chief of Protocol with innovative tools like SharePoint sites and chatbot scripts, and driven thought leadership in Monitoring & Evaluation.I thrive on navigating ambiguity and fostering collaboration across teams. With eight randomized controlled trials under my belt, I blend intellectual rigor with hands-on approaches to deliver actionable insights that mitigate risks and improve outcomes. Beyond my professional achievements, I’m passionate about mentoring emerging leaders, committed to strengthening public life through data-driven policies, and prepared to claw at any challenge.

Experience

1. Managing Consultant

   Guidehouse

   Apr 2022 — Present · Washington, DC, US

   Lead social scientific studies for the Department of State evaluating U.S. foreign assistance impacts on economic growth and anti-corruption efforts in partner countries- Designed and executed a cross-bureau benchmarking study to enhance program design and performance management practices- Lead scoping and delivery of time-sensitive products for the U.S. Office of the Chief of Protocol, earning promotion to Deputy Project Lead after two months on the project- Developed innovative solutions for the Office of the Chief of Protocol, including SharePoint sites to streamline HR processes, analytical reports grounding operations in historical and legal contexts, and advanced tools like a chatbot script and a comprehensive program functionalities list- Facilitated dozens of client sessions to identify needs and align on tailored solutions, driving consensus and delivering bespoke products under aggressive timelines- Produced 200+ pages of research annually, earning consistent client praise for actionable insights.

Education

• Yale University

  M.A., Political Science

  2005 — 2011

• Duke University

  BA (Honors), Political Science, English, Markets and Management

  1999 — 2003

• Yale University

  Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Political Science and Government

  2009 — 2012