The World Bank has appointed Johannes Zutt as the new Vice President for the South Asia Region, effective 1 July. He succeeds Martin Raiser in this role.

Zutt, a Dutch national with a long tenure at the World Bank, will oversee development relations with Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. He will manage a portfolio of $39 billion aimed at supporting job creation, climate resilience, human capital, and private investment.

Previously Country Director for Brazil and several African and South Asian nations, Zutt expressed excitement about returning to the region and contributing to its continued progress. He will be based in New Delhi, which will now serve as the World Bank’s regional hub for South Asia.