In this role, she spearheads the World Bank’s work on the world’s most pressing development challenges—from poverty and climate change to food insecurity, debt, inequality, pandemics, and conflict— overseeing an active portfolio worth $340 billion in programs across client countries.
With 30 years of expertise in international development, public policy, and public-private sector partnerships, Ms. Bjerde drives the World Bank’s operational complex for faster impact. Under her leadership, the World Bank achieved record levels of climate-related project financing and initiated bold and ambitious programs, including bringing clean electricity to 300 million Africans by 2030.
Ms. Bjerde also leads efforts to improve the World Bank's operational efficiency and effectiveness. Her focus is on achieving speed, scale, quality, and impact by mobilizing staff in more than 130 offices to foster a culture of innovation and accountability. She was instrumental in creating more synergies across the World Bank Group when, in 2024, the World Bank Group introduced joint country representatives to better integrate public and private sector solutions for its clients.
A collaborative leader, she has a track record of building strong partnerships with key stakeholders, including multilateral organizations, donors, civil society, and the private sector.
“In a world in turmoil, speed, scale, and impact spell success. In fact, we have no choice. Because making the kind of progress the world needs collective action and a sense of urgency.”
Before taking on this role, Ms. Bjerde served as Vice President for Europe and Central Asia, steering the region through a series of overlapping shocks and mobilizing record support for Ukraine through fast-track financing and innovative solutions. Prior to this, she was the Director of Strategy and Operations for the Middle East and North Africa.
From 2015 to 2018, she oversaw the World Bank’s lending and analytical work for the Sustainable Development Global Practice. A recognized expert in sustainable energy infrastructure, including in Africa and the Middle East, where she led large-scale energy transition and policy programs, she also contributed to empowering women in the energy sector in developing countries and at the World Bank.
A passionate advocate for gender equality, Ms. Bjerde stands out as a leading global development voice. She was named "International Leader of the Year" by Dagens Industri in 2024 and one of Sweden's most influential women. She is also the host of Talking Development, a video series featuring engaging conversations with global leaders.
Before joining the World Bank in 1997, she was a Senior Strategy Consultant for Gemini Consulting in London.
She holds a master’s in business and economics from the University of Stockholm.