IFC has appointed Martin Holtmann as the new Country Manager for Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan. Based in Dhaka, Holtmann will focus on developing new opportunities for the private sector and increasing IFC’s impact on the development of the three countries as the region continues to recover from the Covid-19 pandemic.

Holtmann, a German national, joined IFC in 2007. Prior to his appointment, Holtmann was Global Sector Manager for Financial Inclusion, helping IFC to reach millions of micro, small and medium sized enterprises (MSMEs) with traditional and digital financial services and strengthen more than 200 partner institutions through investment and advisory support.

“Martin’s background experience will be invaluable as IFC deepens its work in Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan,” said Hector Gomez Ang, IFC’s Regional Director for South Asia.

“This is a time of new challenges and opportunities and I am confident Martin will be successful in leading IFC’s efforts to strengthen and diversify its work in the three countries in support of a green and resilient recovery.”

Holtmann will notably work to promote IFC’s impact on climate, gender, and green growth, while expanding and diversifying the investment and advisory portfolios, said a press statement issued by IFC.

Some key sectors for future growth opportunities in the region include transport and logistics, clean energy, financial services, tourism, agribusiness, healthcare, housing, and the digital economy, the statement reads.

Commenting on his new role, Holtmann said, "I am very pleased to be working in Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan. These countries have shown remarkable resilience in the face of strong economic headwinds and fiscal pressures, and I look forward to redoubling IFC’s efforts to help create markets and promote sustainable development."