Nairobi, Kenya, July 6, 2022—IFC today announced the appointment of Henrik Elschner Pedersen as its new Regional Industry Director in Africa for Manufacturing, Agribusiness, and Services. Pedersen, who brings more than 30 years of global investment and development expertise to his new role, will drive IFC's strategy across these sectors to support private sector growth, job creation, and opportunity in Africa.
As Regional Industry Director, Pedersen will be based in Nairobi, Kenya and will lead IFC's investment and advisory teams in Africa, focused on supporting more sustainable and resilient manufacturing, agribusiness and services delivery, which includes health, housing, tourism, and education.
Pedersen, a Danish national, most recently served as IFC's Senior Manager for the Consumer and Social Services sectors in Asia Pacific, and Agribusiness and Forestry sectors in East Asia, where he led the growth of IFC's business and impact. He officially started his new assignment on July 1.
"I welcome Henrik to his new role and know his leadership qualities and deep experience across health, food, housing, manufacturing, and other sectors will help IFC to grow its impact in Africa, speeding the continent's recovery from COVID-19 and helping it tackle new challenges, including from rising inflation and food insecurity," said Sérgio Pimenta, IFC Vice President for Africa.
Pedersen holds a Master of Science in Business Administration and Finance from Aarhus University, School of Business and Social Sciences, in Denmark. During his time at IFC, Pedersen has worked across numerous sectors and regions, including Africa. He has previously been based in Indonesia, Singapore, Washington DC and Hong Kong SAR, China.
"I'm pleased to join IFC's team in Africa. My focus will be on supporting partners to develop resilient healthcare systems, strengthen food security, grow affordable housing, foster tourism recovery and develop the manufacturing sectors in a climate-friendly manner, among other key areas that will create opportunities and jobs," said Pedersen.
IFC currently has an advisory and investment portfolio of more than $3 billion across manufacturing, agribusiness and services in Africa and is continuing to grow its portfolio in key areas including healthcare, affordable housing, and value chain development.
About IFC
IFC—a member of the World Bank Group—is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. We work in more than 100 countries, using our capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2021, IFC committed a record $31.5 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging the power of the private sector to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity as economies grapple with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.
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