The International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, has appointed Amena Arif, a seasoned Pakistani banker, as its new Country Manager for the Philippines. This appointment marks a significant milestone, as she takes on a key leadership role in driving private sector investment, promoting financial inclusion, and addressing climate change challenges in the Southeast Asian nation.
Extensive Global Banking Experience
Amena Arif brings over two decades of experience in banking and financial services, having held pivotal roles across South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. She joined IFC in 2012, following a successful career in international commercial banking, where she led debt and equity investment transactions in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Lebanon.
Before her new role, Amena served as IFC’s Country Manager for East Africa, where she was responsible for spearheading private sector-led economic growth in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Somalia, and South Sudan. Prior to that, she held a similar role in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, focusing on infrastructure development, access to finance, and digital transformation.
Vision for the Philippines
Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Amena stated:
“I am excited to be back in Asia and look forward to working closely with our public and private sector partners towards sustainable and inclusive growth. IFC is committed to unlocking capital that will create jobs, help businesses mitigate climate change, support small enterprises, and ensure digital services reach underserved communities.”
Academic and Leadership Background
Amena Arif holds an MBA from the Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), one of Pakistan’s premier business institutions. She replaces Jean-Marc Arbogast, who has transitioned to his new role as the World Bank Group Country Manager in Chile.
About IFC
As the largest global development institution focused on private sector growth in emerging markets, IFC operates in over 100 countries. It leverages capital, expertise, and partnerships to create sustainable economic opportunities worldwide. In fiscal year 2024, IFC committed a record $56 billion in investments to private companies and financial institutions, reinforcing its mission to eradicate poverty and drive long-term prosperity.
Amena Arif’s appointment underscores IFC’s commitment to strengthening its presence in the Philippines, fostering economic resilience, and advancing sustainable development initiatives.
