Dhaka: Jean Pesme will assume office tomorrow as the new World Bank Division Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan. Pesme brings a wide range of development experience to the job, including a track record in promoting economic growth and development, and making financial systems more resilient and inclusive.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Pesme, a French national and engineer by training, joined the World Bank in 2003 as a Senior Infrastructure Specialist. He has since held leadership positions within the World Bank Group, including its private sector arm, IFC, as noted in a World Bank press release. Pesme has extensive experience working on financial sector issues, notably in the Middle East and North Africa.
Before taking this assignment, Pesme served as the Global Director, Finance and led the World Bank’s work to promote the development of sound, stable, sustainable, and inclusive financial systems. He also led the World Bank’s Financial Stability and Integrity global team, which assists countries in building and restoring robust and resilient financial systems operating with integrity, transparency, and in compliance with international standards.
Pesme expressed his enthusiasm for working in Bangladesh, highlighting the country’s unique development experiences and its innovation and resilience in addressing development and economic challenges. He stated his commitment to working closely with the government and people of Bangladesh to maintain robust and inclusive development and growth.
In his role as the World Bank Division Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan, Pesme will lead the strategic and policy dialogue to shape World Bank engagement in the two countries, supporting them to achieve their respective development goals. He will ensure that the country and regional programs are aligned with the World Bank Group’s vision and mission, emphasizing selectivity, speed, scale, impact, and partnerships.
The World Bank has been a key development partner for Bangladesh since its independence. The organization has committed over $46 billion in grants, interest-free, and concessional credits to Bangladesh. Currently, Bangladesh has the largest IDA program of the World Bank with an ongoing commitment of $15.4 billion.