Veteran ADB Official to Lead Key Initiatives Across 11 Countries
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has announced the appointment of Leah Gutierrez as the new Director General for its Central and West Asia Department, which includes oversight of ADB’s extensive engagement with Pakistan and 10 other countries in the region. Gutierrez officially assumed the role on Monday, according to a statement issued by ADB.
With this position, Gutierrez will be responsible for implementing the bank’s strategic vision across a region that includes Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkiye, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.
Gutierrez, a seasoned development professional with more than four decades of experience — including 25 years at ADB — expressed her commitment to regional cooperation and inclusive progress. “I am honoured to serve in this position and will continue to engage with developing member countries and stakeholders to promote inclusive growth, regional cooperation, and sustainable development across the region,” she said in the official statement.
Strong Track Record in Finance and Policy Leadership
Prior to this appointment, Gutierrez served as the Director General of ADB’s Sectors Department 3, where she led initiatives focused on finance, public sector management, governance, and social development. She also previously headed ADB’s Pacific Department and has held several leadership roles in departments related to strategy, policy, and partnerships.
Gutierrez’s appointment comes at a crucial time for Pakistan. The ADB remains one of the country’s largest multilateral financiers. In June, Pakistan signed a $1 billion multi-tranche facility with ADB for development projects. The same month, the bank approved an $800 million programme to boost fiscal sustainability and public financial management.
ADB continues to assist Pakistan in areas including climate policy, digital transformation, and infrastructure development, marking Gutierrez’s role as vital in deepening the bank’s impact in the region.
