Asian Development Bank Names New Director General for Central and West Asia

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has named Leah Gutierrez as the new Director General of the Central and West Asia Department, effective immediately.

In this role, Gutierrez will spearhead ADB’s strategic initiatives across 11 countries: Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, The Caspian Post reports via Tajik media.

Gutierrez said that it was an honor to assume the role and that she looked forward to continuing their work with developing member countries and stakeholders to promote inclusive growth, regional cooperation, and sustainable development throughout the region.

With over 40 years of professional experience - including 25 years at ADB - Gutierrez previously led the Sectors Department, managing operations in finance, human and social development, and public sector governance. She has also held key leadership positions in the Pacific Department, Strategy, Policy and Partnerships Department, Southeast Asia Department, and ADB’s Office of the Secretary.

A Philippine national, Gutierrez holds a PhD and Master’s degree in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania, US, and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of the Philippines.

Founded in 1966, the Asian Development Bank is a major multilateral development bank dedicated to fostering sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth in the Asia-Pacific region. It works with member countries and partners to tackle complex challenges by leveraging innovative financing and strategic partnerships.