Johannes Zutt Named New World Bank Vice President for South Asia

 June 30, Kathmandu – The World Bank has named Johannes Zutt as its new Vice President for the South Asia Region, replacing Martin Raiser. He will officially take on the role starting July 1, 2025.

In this position, Zutt will oversee the World Bank’s work in Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. He will manage a portfolio of projects, financial support, and technical assistance worth $39 billion.

Under his leadership, the World Bank aims to continue its focus on key challenges in the region, such as job creation, climate resilience, disaster preparedness, improving human capital, and encouraging private investment.

Originally from the Netherlands, Zutt joined the World Bank in 1999 and has held various senior roles over the years. Most recently, he served as the Country Director for Brazil. He has also held leadership positions overseeing the Bank’s operations in Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Türkiye, and several African countries.

“I’m impressed by the progress South Asia has made in the past decade since I last worked here,” Zutt said. “I’m excited to return and work with the region’s people and cultures once again.”

Zutt holds a B.A. and M.A. in Philosophy from the University of Toronto, a law degree from Harvard University, and a PhD in Philosophy from the University of Oxford.

He will be based in New Delhi, India, which is being established as the World Bank’s new regional hub for South Asia as part of its plan to decentralize and better serve its partner countries.

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