Hüseyin Özhan Appointed as EBRD's Acting Managing Director for Central Asia

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has named Hüseyin Özhan, a Turkish national, as its acting Managing Director for Central Asia, effective June 1, 2024. Özhan will be stationed in Almaty, Kazakhstan, where he will oversee the Bank's operations in six countries: Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.

Özhan succeeds Zsuzsanna Hargitai, who has been appointed Managing Director, SME Finance and Development at the EBRD's headquarters in London. As the acting Managing Director, Özhan will continue to serve as the EBRD Director for Kazakhstan, managing the Bank's largest and longest-running banking operation in Central Asia.

Hüseyin Özhan brings a wealth of experience and a robust educational background to his new role. He holds a BA in Economics and Mathematics from Macalester College in Minnesota, USA, an MA in International Trade Finance, and is a PhD candidate from Yeditepe University in Türkiye.

The EBRD has been significantly involved in Central Asia, with investments totaling €19.5 billion through nearly 1,100 projects. These investments span various sectors, aiming to bolster economic development and integration within the region.

The appointment of Hüseyin Özhan as the EBRD's acting Managing Director for Central Asia has significant implications for the region's economic development and integration. His leadership will influence the Bank's investments and initiatives, potentially shaping the economic trajectory of the six countries under his purview.

Özhan's appointment comes at a pivotal time for Central Asia, as the region continues to navigate economic challenges and opportunities. His dual role as the EBRD Director for Kazakhstan and acting Managing Director for Central Asia positions him to leverage his extensive experience to drive growth and stability across the six countries under his purview.

In summary, Hüseyin Özhan's new role as the acting Managing Director for Central Asia at the EBRD marks a significant step in the Bank's ongoing efforts to support economic development in the region. With his extensive background and strategic position in Almaty, Özhan is well-placed to lead the EBRD's initiatives across Central Asia.

Key Takeaways

• Hüseyin Özhan named EBRD's acting Managing Director for Central Asia.
• Özhan will oversee operations in 6 countries from Almaty, Kazakhstan.
• He succeeds Zsuzsanna Hargitai and remains EBRD Director for Kazakhstan.
• EBRD has invested €19.5 billion in nearly 1,100 projects in Central Asia.
• Özhan's leadership will shape economic development in the region.