On July 28, 2025, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) named Leah Gutierrez as Director General of its Central and West Asia Department, effective immediately. In this role, she will direct ADB’s strategic agenda across 11 countries including Pakistan, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, and others.
Leah Gutierrez Experience
Gutierrez brings over 40 years of professional experience, with 25 years at ADB, including serving as Director General of Sectors Department 3—covering finance, human development, public sector management, and governance. She has also held senior positions in the Pacific Department, Southeast Asia Department, Strategy & Partnerships, and other regional offices.
Her appointment reinforces ADB’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s development initiatives. In June 2025, ADB approved a $1 billion multi‑tranche financing facility and an $800 million fiscal sustainability program to assist with economic stabilization and reforms.
Gutierrez holds a PhD and Master’s in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor in Business Economics from the University of the Philippines. She emphasized her commitment to inclusive growth, regional cooperation, and sustainable development, pledging to work closely with member countries and stakeholders across Central and West Asia.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 28th, 2025
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