The World Bank Group has appointed Holly Welborn Benner as the new Country Manager for Qatar. This appointment is part of the organization's commitment to supporting Qatar's development priorities in line with its National Vision 2030. The new office in Doha aims to enhance engagement with national priorities efficiently and effectively.
Holly Benner previously served as the Resident Representative for Jordan, where she led programs focused on growth and jobs aligned with Jordan's Economic Modernization Vision. With over two decades of experience, her work spans complex transition and reform challenges, including conflict-recovery efforts in Ukraine and projects in Tajikistan and Kyrgyz Republic.
"As I step into the role of Country Manager for Qatar, I am both honored and excited to contribute to the World Bank Group's mission of fostering sustainable development and economic growth," said Holly W. Benner. "Qatar's dynamic landscape also offers unique opportunities for the World Bank Group to promote Qatar’s knowledge, innovation, and investment in the Middle East region and globally."
The World Bank Group is working alongside Qatar to achieve its National Vision 2030 by strengthening human capital, supporting job creation, diversifying the economy, and driving sustainable growth through various initiatives.
The International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group focused on private sector development in emerging markets, has facilitated $1.84 billion of financing for Qatari companies' expansion into developing countries. Additionally, MIGA issued guarantees worth $225 million to Kasada Hospitality Fund LP for investments across sub-Saharan Africa.
The Doha office will function under a single Country Manager covering multiple branches of the World Bank Group: IBRD, IDA, IFC, and MIGA.