MANILA, PHILIPPINES (28 JULY 2025) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has appointed Christine Engstrom as the Director General of its newly established department, Sectors Department 3 (SD3). ADB’s SD3 will oversee the bank’s operations in finance, human and social development, and public sector governance.
"I am honored to lead this exceptional team advancing ADB’s work on development priorities that are crucial for inclusive and sustainable growth in Asia and the Pacific," said Ms. Engstrom. "We will deepen our engagement with ADB’s developing member countries to help them deliver innovative financial solutions, equitable social development, and effective governance reforms."
Ms. Engstrom joined ADB’s Private Sector Operations Department in 2006 as a Senior Structured Finance Specialist. She was promoted to Director in 2013, leading transactions with financial institutions to support local financial sectors and capital markets. Following the implementation of ADB’s New Operating Model in 2023, she was appointed Senior Sector Director for the Finance Sector Office, overseeing policy development, regulatory programs, and technical assistance.
A national of the United States, Ms. Engstrom holds a Master’s degree in International Affairs from the University of Virginia and a Master’s in Business Administration from Georgetown University. She has over 38 years of professional experience, including 19 years at ADB.
The restructuring of ADB’s Sectors Group into three distinct departments in 2022 aimed to enhance managerial oversight, improve efficiency, and ensure stronger leadership across operations. This realignment enables a more balanced distribution of responsibilities, addressing the rapidly evolving needs of member countries.
ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members—50 from the region.
