Starting July 1, 2025, Jason Pellmar takes on the role of World Bank Group Country Manager for Bulgaria. This position aims to consolidate leadership at the country level to support both public and private sector priorities in Bulgaria. The role will serve as a central point of contact for accessing the full range of World Bank Group products and services.
“It is a privilege to serve as World Bank Group Country Manager in Bulgaria – a country that has undergone a significant transformation from a highly centralized, planned economy to an open, market-based economy securely anchored in the EU. Now the country’s evolving development opportunities and challenges require mobilization of investments both public and private to deliver on the aspirations of Bulgarians for high EU living standards,” said Jason Pellmar.
The World Bank Group's work in Bulgaria focuses on enhancing competitiveness and social inclusion while fostering sustainable economic growth. In September 2024, it announced its new Country Partnership Framework with Bulgaria for fiscal years 2025 to 2029. This framework aims to align efforts across the entire organization to support government initiatives addressing development challenges such as strengthening institutions and improving productivity, skills, employability, and public spending efficiency.
Jason Pellmar is a U.S. national who previously worked with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), part of the World Bank Group, as Regional Industry Manager for Infrastructure in India, Bhutan, and Maldives. His experience includes mobilizing private sector investment and advancing reforms across various industries globally. Before joining IFC, he managed energy assets at GE Energy Financial Services.
This joint country representation initiative is part of broader efforts by the World Bank Group to strengthen its global presence. Over 40 offices worldwide are transitioning to this unified management structure.
The World Bank Group's mission is "to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet." It operates in over 100 countries providing financing, advice, and solutions aimed at job creation, economic growth enhancement, and tackling global development challenges.