IFC Picks Sarvesh Suri To Run Operations In Asia And The Pacific
Sarvesh Suri has been named regional vice president for Asia Pacific operations by the International Finance Corporation. He brings more than 25 years of experience in global investment, infrastructure, and development finance. He will oversee investment and advisory activities across markets ranging from India to the Pacific Islands.
Suri will be based in Singapore while leading one of IFC’s most diverse regional portfolios. The role places him at the center of private sector development in emerging and frontier economies. His appointment follows a broader strategic leadership reshuffle within the World Bank Group.
Source: finews.asia
Leadership Transition Reflects Broader IFC Global Strategy
Suri succeeds Riccardo Puliti, who has relocated to Dubai to lead IFC’s Middle East and Central Asia operations. The transition reflects IFC’s effort to align senior leadership with evolving regional investment priorities. Asia Pacific remains central to IFC’s long-term global growth strategy.
The leadership change ensures continuity while introducing fresh direction in 2 major growth regions. IFC regularly rotates senior executives to strengthen global coordination and regional responsiveness. This structure supports balanced oversight of worldwide investment pipelines.
Focus On Getting Private Money To Work For Development
Suri said his mandate centers on mobilizing private capital in priority sectors and emerging markets. He emphasized innovative financing structures, equity investments, and stronger local capital markets. Supporting small and medium sized enterprises was identified as a key driver of job creation.
Private sector mobilization is increasingly critical as public development resources become more constrained. IFC aims to crowd in private investment to unlock sustainable long-term growth. This approach aligns with its mission to reduce poverty and promote shared prosperity.
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IFC Development Mandate And Sectoral Priorities
IFC advances development by enabling private investment while setting environmental, social, and governance standards. Its work spans renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, and sustainable building projects. Inclusive finance remains a core pillar of its regional strategy.
These priorities support climate objectives and long-term economic resilience in emerging markets. IFC mitigates risk by pairing advisory services with direct investment. This dual approach strengthens institutional capacity and builds market confidence.
Support Structure Makes Regional Oversight Stronger
Suri will be supported by 2 division directors overseeing key subregions. Keiko Miwa, based in Jakarta, will manage the Pacific Islands and South West Asia. Beginning in February, Arnaud Dupoizat will lead East Asia operations from Hong Kong.
This structure improves decision making speed and operational efficiency across diverse markets. It reflects IFC’s emphasis on regional expertise and proximity to clients. The model enables faster execution across varying economic environments.
Track Record In Infrastructure And Global Finance
Suri most recently served as regional industry director for infrastructure and natural resources at IFC in Johannesburg. He played a central role in launching Mission 300, an initiative aimed at expanding access to essential services. The program focused on strengthening infrastructure in underserved communities.
Previously, he spent 6 years at the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency overseeing political risk insurance. That role facilitated cross-border investment in developing economies. His experience spans risk mitigation, financing, and complex investment structuring.
Deep Institutional Experience Within World Bank Group
Before joining MIGA, Suri spent more than 15 years at IFC in senior leadership roles. He previously served as senior regional manager in Jakarta, overseeing Southeast Asia operations. This background provides extensive institutional and regional expertise.
His long field experience positions him well to manage complex development finance challenges. The appointment signals IFC’s continued focus on experienced leadership in high-impact regions. As Asia Pacific demand grows, Suri’s role will shape future investment outcomes.
