MEET OUR SPEAKERS
Mr. Saud A. Minam
ADFIAP Chairman/Chief Executive Officer
Mr. Minam is Chief Executive Officer of the Fiji Development Bank. A highly accomplished professional with 30 years’ experience within the financial sector, he is a thoughtful leader and passionate knowledge sharer within the banking sector. He has grown with changes and technical advancements and is recognized for his ability to negotiate contracts and manage banking agreements with integrity and discretion.
He has extensive experience working with stakeholders to exceed client needs, assessing commercial needs, and acting as the conduit between operational practicalities and technical abilities. He enjoys working collaboratively, leading, and mentoring staff to ensure team effectiveness.
H.E. Dr. Kao Thach
ADFIAP 1st Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer
Agricultural & Rural Development Bank/Cambodia
H.E. Dr. Kao Thach
ADFIAP 1st Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer
H.E. Dr. Thach KAO, currently hold the portfolio of the Royal Government Delegate in charge as the C.E.O. of the Agricultural and Rural Development Bank (ARDB), was nominated to be the C.E.O. of the Rural Development Bank (RDB) on July 4th, 2014 then later transformed to be ARDB and to be member of the RDB’s Board on August 7th, 2014. Currently, he is a member of Supreme National Economic Council (SNEC) with the rank to Secretary of State and labor arbitrator of the Arbitration Council since 2003. He sworn in as Lawyer on October 8th, 2012 and adhered to member of Bar Association of Cambodia on October 10th, 2016.
Before holding ARDB’s portfolio, he was Deputy Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission of Cambodia with the rank and privilege to Undersecretary of State and the Head of Financial Market Division, Financial Industry Department, Ministry of Economy and Finance. Working in law field, he used to be a legal officer in the Ministry of Justice and also in court. He was one of the key persons working toward the establishment of Securities and Exchange Commission of Cambodia and Cambodia Securities Exchange.
Since joining the Ministry of Economy and Finance in 2003, he has undertaken numerous assignments relating to financial sector development in Cambodia. These assignments include member of working groups responsible for drafting Law on Government Securities and Law on Issuance and Trading of Non-government Securities, and member of working group responsible for developing Financial Development Strategy 2006-2015 and 2011-2020. As a representative of the Ministry of Economy and Finance he has been involved in various ASEAN working groups in relation to capital market development such ABMI, ACMF, and Financial Services Liberalization.
He holds Bachelor of Law (LLB-Faculty of Law and Economics) in 1998 and Master of Laws from Bond University (Australia) in 2002, with an emphasis of International Trade Law System, WTO Legal Framework, Alternative Dispute Resolution, and Dispute System Design. On May 11th, 2019 he graduated Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) from EU Business School. His thesis is on “The Rural Development Bank’s Transformation: The Case of Cambodia”. On December 30th, 2021 he graduated Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy from the University of Cambodia. His dissertation on “The role of Securities regulators in Efficient Supervision and Regulations of the Securities Market in Cambodia”.
Concerning the publications, in August 2022, his research paper: “Does the Role of Securities Regulators Matter for The Development of Securities Market in Cambodia? An Exploratory Study” was published by Centre for ASEAN Studies (CAS)–Centre for International Management and Development Antwerp (CIMDA), in Belgium. In 2002, his book on “Dispute Settlement System of the World Trade Organization and Theories and Principle of Dispute System Design” was published by UTPP Press in Cambodia.
Mr. Enrique I. Florencio
Secretary General
Association of Development Financing Institutions in Asia and the Pacific (ADFIAP)
Mr. Enrique I. Florencio
Secretary General
Enrique is a Certified Sustainability Assurance Practitioner (GRI & Accountability 1000) and has extensive experience in sustainability reporting and management workshops. He is currently the Secretary General of the Association of Development Financing Institutions in Asia and the Pacific (ADFIAP).
Enrique has participated both as a Board of Trustee and Member of various national organizations and activities relating to the development and promotion of ICT and CSR in the country. One of which is the Philippine Society of Information Technology Educators, (PSITE) where he has been an active member and trustee for more than a decade.
An active technical member of the Human Capital Development Group of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), and has published a primer on ICT in Education. He has been an active technical member of Sustainability Strategic Consulting since 2006 and has published sustainability reports of known corporations in the country. He has also worked with CSR Asia in some of its CSR projects in the Philippines and Asian Development Bank as project consultant. Enrique has a Graduate Degrees in Business Administration from the De La Salle University and in Educational Technology at the Concordia College Graduate School.
Ms. Mafalda Duarte
Executive Director
Ms. Mafalda Duarte is the Executive Director of the Green Climate Fund (GCF), the world’s largest multilateral climate fund, since August 1, 2023. For decades, Ms. Mafalda has challenged business as usual to drive innovative and pioneering development and climate-responsive investments globally. Before her current role, Ms. Mafalda was CEO of the Climate Investment Funds (CIF), where she steered a multibillion-dollar portfolio of investments pushing the frontiers of clean energy, sustainable land management, and resilience across more than 70 middle and low-income countries. Originally from Portugal, Ms. Mafalda is a proud mother to three daughters and a champion of social inclusion and equity. She decided to focus her international development career on climate action after witnessing climate impacts in countries in Africa and learning about climate science.
Mr. Liduvino Geron
Executive Vice President
EVP Liduvino S. Geron has spent more than two decades in Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK), holding various positions that equipped him with the experience and competence to lead the Bank’s Branch Banking Sector. From a management trainee in 1994, he rose from the ranks and headed various units, including the Bank’s Visayas Branches Group, Lending Program Management Group, Credit Policy Department, Strategic Planning Group, National Development Lending Sector, and most recently, the Branch Banking Sector.
From July 2020 to March 2022, he was appointed as Office-In-Charge of the United Coconut Planters Bank (UCPB), then one of the largest banks in the Philippines, where he played a pivotal role in the successful merger of UCPB and LANDBANK in 2022. EVP Geron earned his degree in Agricultural Engineering from the University of the Philippines – Los Baños and pursued his master’s degree in Systems Agriculture at the University of Western Sydney which he completed in 1992.
Mr. Manolo M. Martinez
Vice President for Product Development & Innovation | Chief Innovation Officer CARD MRI
CARD SME Bank/Philippines
Mr. Manolo M. Martinez
Vice President for Product Development & Innovation | Chief Innovation Officer CARD MRI
A dynamic and forward-thinking executive with over three decades of experience in credit, finance, and retail. Throughout his illustrious career, Mr. Martinez has been at the forefront of driving innovation and leading teams to remarkable success. His proven track record speaks volumes, showcasing his adeptness in identifying new opportunities, developing innovative products and services, and implementing effective business models that yield tangible results.
In his leadership roles at esteemed institutions such as CARD SME Bank and Unionbank of the Philippines, Mr. Martinez has demonstrated an exceptional ability to spearhead strategic initiatives. Whether it’s establishing an innovation center or orchestrating comprehensive marketing campaigns, his visionary leadership has consistently resulted in increased customer engagement and revenue growth. His proficiency in digital strategy development, innovation management, and cross-functional team leadership make him an invaluable asset in driving organizational growth and differentiation.
Mr. Martinez’s commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and driving change within organizations is truly commendable. As Vice President for Product Development & Innovation at CARD SME Bank and concurrently as Chief Innovation Officer of CARD MRI, he has championed the establishment of innovation frameworks and empowered employees to contribute to the creative process, leading to the development of impactful solutions and products. His dedication to continuous learning is evident in his academic background, which includes a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University Of Santo Tomas in the Philippines, and executive courses such as Basic Strategic Management Program from John Gokongwei School of Management (AdMU) and Mastering Design Thinking from MIT Sloan Executive Education. Mr. Martinez’s diverse skill set and unwavering commitment to excellence make him a truly exceptional leader poised to inspire and drive transformative change.
Mr. Nassir Alkasabi
Director General of Corporate Strategy
Nassir Alkasabi is the Director General of Corporate Strategy at the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD). He is a strategy expert with over 15 years of experience in infrastructure development funding. He has a distinguished background in strategy development and implementation, and is adept at designing and executing strategies to optimize opportunities. He is also an exemplary communicator with the passion and drive needed to cultivate and foster professional relationships while maintaining trust.
Nassir has led a number of successful initiatives. In partnership with Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and Willis Towers Watson (WTW), he played a key role in evolving SFD’s organizational structure. He also updated SFD’s core operating model in partnership with BCG. Additionally, he helped to apply and operationalize the corporate strategy to the workplace, in partnership with BCG and Price Waterhouse Coopers (PWC). Furthermore, he designed and operationalized the Project Management Office at SFD. Finally, he led the process to re-engineer the processes of the SFD Operations department, applying global best practice.
Nassir joined the SFD in 2003 as a Technical Consultant. He has since held a number of senior positions, including Regional Manager, Operations Department, Deputy Transformation Department GM, and Acting Corporate Strategy Director. He was appointed to his current role in 2021.
Nassir holds a BSc. in Industrial Engineering from King Abdulaziz University and an MBA Masters of Business Administration from the University of Glasgow. He is also a published author, having written a report for the UNDP on the topic of: “Partnership in Development and South-South Cooperation/Official development Assistance of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia” in 2016. He is also involved in policy making in the GCC region, and co-authored an article on “Saudi Arabia’s Support for International Development” in 2017.
Ms. Lindsay Timarong, AIFA®, GFS®
President & Chief Executive Officer
Pacific Islands Development Bank/Guam
Ms. Lindsay Timarong, AIFA®, GFS®
President & Chief Executive Officer
Lindsay is the President & Chief Executive Officer for Pacific Islands Development Bank (PIDB), a regional development finance institution headquartered in Guam and established in 1989 to advance the economic and social development of Pacific Island nations and territories. By virtue of her position as President & Chief Executive Officer, Lindsay serves as Chairperson of the PIDB Board of Directors, and is accountable to the governments of the Marshall Islands, Palau, CNMI, Guam, the four State Governments that comprise the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Kwajalein Atoll Development Authority—the shareholders of PIDB. Prior to joining the PIDB management team, Lindsay served for over a decade as Senior Bank Examiner for the Palau Financial Institutions Commission, an autonomous national agency responsible for the licensing and supervision of financial institutions. She is also a Consultant and Founder of HeartKey Synergies, a business and financial consulting firm in Palau.
Lindsay currently serves as Chairperson for the Republic of Palau Compact of Free Association (COFA) Trust Fund Board of Trustees, having been appointed by reknowned Palau former President Tommy E. Remengesau, Jr. in October 2015, and reappointed by current President, His Excellency Surangel Whipps, Jr., in 2021. She recently served on the Palau Compact Review Advisory Committee under Palau’s Chief Compact Negotiator and Minister of Finance. She has also served in various capacities on other boards and committees for the Republic of Palau at the national, state and community levels.
Lindsay serves as Adjunct Faculty Instructor for New Zealand based fi360 Pacific. fi360 Pacific (www.fi360.co.nz) was established in order to bring U.S.-based fi360 Inc. fiduciary education programs to the Asia Pacific more effectively, and to adapt such trainings to local legal frameworks and practical application when required. fi360 (www.fi360.com) is the globally recognized leader in fiduciary education.
Lindsay earned a Master’s degree in Economics from the University of Hawaii-Manoa and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Washington State University. She is U.S. FDIC trained and is a qualified Examiner-In-Charge. In addition, she holds the distinguished Accredited Investment Fiduciary Analyst® (AIFA®) designation. She was awarded the AIFA® designation in 2017 from the U.S. Center for Fiduciary Studies™, the standards-setting body for fiduciary education and training worldwide. She earned the Global Fiduciary Strategist® designation in November 2022.
Eng. Mohammed Al Ghassani
Chairman of the Board
Eng. Mohammed Al Ghassani was appointed Chairman, Development Bank, Oman in June 2022. He has over 32 years of experience in senior public and private sector positions.
In 2015, Mohammed was elected to the Majlis A’ Shura (the Lower House of Oman’s Parliament), In 2023, he was appointed to the Majlis A’Dawla (Upper House of Oman’s Parliament) by His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.
He sits on several Government Advisory Committees and is a member of a number of Boards.
Mohammed holds a BSc in Electronic Engineering from the University of Bolton, an MBA from the University of Lincoln and a Senior Executive Management Certificate from Harvard Business School.
Mr. Edwin Syahruzad
President/Director
Indonesian Citizen, based in Indonesia. Edwin Syahruzad obtained his Bachelor of Economics from University of Indonesia in 1993.
Previously he served as Financing & Investment Director (2014-2019) and Executive Vice President/Head of Financing & Investment Division (2009-2014) at PT Sarana Multi Infrastruktur (Persero) (“PT SMI”). Before joining PT SMI, he served for 10 years in several positions at PT Danareksa (Persero) and culminating in the position of Director at PT Danareksa Sekuritas. In addition, he had worked as Analyst at PT Penthasena Securities (1996-1999), PT Amstel Securities Indonesia (1995-1996), The Industrial Bank of Japan, Jakarta Branch (1993-1995) and as Audit Committee Member at PT Timah (Persero) Tbk. (2011-2012).
He was appointed as President Director of PT SMI since August 13th, 2019 pursuant to the Minister of Finance Decree No. 651/KMK.06/2019. Previously he was appointed as Director of PT SMI since August 19th, 2014 pursuant to Minister of Finance Decree No. 389/KMK.06/2014. As President Director, he is in charge of overseeing the overall operations of the Company, including the development of the Company’s long-term strategy, and ensuring compliance with good corporate governance in all of the Company’s operations.
Mr. Rajan Ashok Uttamchandani
Chairman of the Board & Chief Executive Officer
Esquire Financing, Inc./Philippines
Mr. Rajan Ashok Uttamchandani
Chairman of the Board & Chief Executive Officer
Rajan, who joined the financial industry at a very young age, working with his Father at Esquire international during his time in High School; is now the President and CEO of Esquire International Financing Inc., as well as the Chairman, and CEO of Esquire Financing Inc.
Rajan, spearheaded the launch of Esquire Financing Inc., just after graduating from Bentley College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Corporate Finance and Accounting. Following this Rajan, continued to learn, and grow his knowledge in Business and Finance. Starting with earning a Master’s in Entrepreneurship from the Asian Institute of Management, after which he finished the Key Executives Program and the President Management Program at Harvard Business School. He also completed the YPO Innovation Programme at Stanford Business school in the United States and the YPO scaling up programme at London Business School.
Not only is he an entrepreneur who assists in growing small and medium enterprises in the Philippines, through finance and strategic consultancy. He is also a philanthropist, working closely with Gawad Kalinga, as well as launched Help Foundation, and is an activ e member of the Rotary Club of the Philippines.
Mr. Aishamuddin bin Zulkefli
Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Planning & Development)
TEKUN Nasional/Malaysia
Mr. Aishamuddin bin Zulkefli
Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Planning & Development)
MR. AISHAM, a Senior Management with over 20 years of progressive experience specialized in finance, accounts, corporate management & business development and currently served as the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of TEKUN Nasional, a government owned financial institution under the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, Malaysia since May 2017 where he was responsible for the group strategic management, entrepreneurs development, ar-rahnu operations, shariah compliance, organizational system & method, research and innovation.
Mr. Aisham started his career as Auditor with KPMG Peat Marwick, Kuala Lumpur in 1992. He has held various management positions in companies and government’s agencies from 1993 to 2017 include as Accountant, Chief Financial Officer and Company Secretary.
He is a Chartered Accountant member with the Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA). He holds a Master of Business Administration (Leadership) from Universiti Tun Abdul Razak / UNIRAZAK, Kuala Lumpur and a Bachelor of Accountancy from Universiti Putra Malaysia / UPM, Serdang. He has attended and participated in various forums and conferences at the national, regional and international levels.
Ms. Alexandra Matveeva
Executive Deputy Chairman of the Board
International Bank for Economic Cooperation (IBEC)/Russian Federation
Ms. Alexandra Matveeva
Executive Deputy Chairman of the Board
Ms. Alexandra Matveeva is Executive Deputy Chairman of the Board of the International Bank for Economic Cooperation, Russian Federation. She oversees the bank’s business with corporate clients and financial institutions, with the key focus on sustainable trade finance, including credit assessment process. Prior to her current responsibility, she was the Head of Client Relations Department, Trade Finance & Syndications where she implemented several projects to finance clients in IBEC member countries (Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Romania, Vietnam, Mongolia, Russia, Poland) and to support exports from IBEC member countries to third countries (Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Belarus, Armenia) with partner banks. The Loan & Documentary Portfolio grew by more than 20 times between 2018 and 2021, and included direct lending, syndicated financing, letters of credit, guarantees, IRUs, supply chain finance, forfeiting, and tied finance transactions. New products were introduced, including cash management services.
Under her leadership, the Bank has built a significant portfolio of sustainable financing aligned with SDGs, which in 2023 exceeded 60% of the total IBEC project portfolio. One of the most notable projects is the loan to support the Green Loan Program of the Trade and Development Bank of Mongolia for SMEs aimed at the implementation of UN SDGs. Also, the Bank implemented green forfaiting deals supporting import of renewable energy equipment for solar power plants in Vietnam. IBEC pays a lot of attention to the healthcare sector and supports supplies of pharmaceuticals and medicines for treatment in oncology, hematology, neurology, cardiology. IBEC also supports infrastructure development in its member states, including railways and logistics centers.
Prior to IBEC Alexandra Matveeva was the Head of Trade Finance in Russian Offices of Deutsche Bank (May 2014 – March 2018) and BNP Paribas (February 2007 – May 2014), and a number of Russian banks (before 2007).
IBEC is a UN-registered intergovernmental development financial institution whose purpose is to promote the development of the economies of the Bank’s member countries, foreign economic relations between economic entities of the member countries, as well as the expansion of their foreign trade relations with counterparties from other countries.
The main directions of the Bank’s activities are to support export-oriented companies of the member countries, assist them in entering new markets and participating in sustainable development projects in accordance with the 2030 Agenda.
Mr. Akihiro Suzuki
General Manager, Global Business Planning & Coordination Department
Development Bank of Japan, Inc (DBJ)
Mr. Akihiro Suzuki
General Manager, Global Business Planning & Coordination Department
Akihiro Suzuki currently serves as General Manager, Head of Global Business Planning Office, Business Planning & Coordination Department and Head of Sustainability Management Office, Corporate Planning & Coordination Department at Development Bank of Japan Inc. He is responsible for DBJ’s overall international businesses, including monitoring overseas loan and investment exposure and overseeing international subsidiaries in the UK, US, Singapore, and China. He is also responsible for DBJ’s sustainability management, including enhancing DBJ’s disclosures in line with the Task Force on Climate Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) framework, handling the internal executive meetings about sustainability (Sustainability Committee), maintaining relationships with competent authorities such as the Ministry of the Environment and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, monitoring international trends and initiatives as to sustainability (e.g., the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero [GFANZ]), and attending COP and other international conferences related to sustainability. He has a strong professional background for over 20 years as a banker, including cross-border corporate finance transactions, complex project finance transactions (for offshore vessels, real estate, etc.) and equity co-investment transactions (for M&A) with DBJ’s clients. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Tokyo (Tokyo, Japan) and Master of Business Administration from INSEAD (Fontainebleau, France).
V. Bruce J. Tolentino, Ph.D.
Private Sector Member, The Monetary Board
Dr. Tolentino has over 35 years of progressively senior-level experience in international development, governance, development finance and planning of socio-economic projects in Asia, Africa, and Central America. He also has direct experience in the management of international, large-scale governance and rural and agricultural programs.
Before joining the Monetary Board at Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Dr. Tolentino’s most recent posts include Deputy Director-General and Secretary to the Board of Trustees at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and Chief Economist and Director of Economic Reform and Development Programs and Country Representative for Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka at The Asia Foundation
Ms. Tshering Om
Chief Executive Officer
A banking professional with extensive experience spanning over two decades in various leadership roles within the finance sector. Equipped with a Master of Business Administration from the University of Canberra and a Bachelor of Commerce from St. Josephs College, Darjeeling, India, complemented by a solid track record of academic excellence. Currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Bhutan Development Bank Limited (BDBL), adept at steering organizations towards sustainable growth and profitability. Demonstrated expertise in investment management, credit assessment, risk mitigation, and strategic decision-making. Known for fostering a culture of integrity, responsibility, and innovation to achieve corporate objectives.
Ms. Carolyn Olfindo
Senior Vice President
SVP Carolyn I. Olfindo is the Officer-in-Charge of DBP’s Development and Resiliency Sector whose function is to achieve the development mandate of DBP through expanding the reach of banking to underserved areas and providing financing for the countryside where investments are required for strong and inclusive development. To take on a more focused approach on sustainable development while reaching out to people that have been locked out of the conventional banking system due to low income, location in far flung and/or disaster-prone areas and lack of economic opportunities. Likewise, to give the Bank the opportunity to build possibilities thru the provision of innovative and unconventional ways of financing progress.
She oversees the crafting of the Bank’s development programs in Infrastructure, Logistics and Tourism, Environment & Climate Change, Energy, Water and Sanitation, and for the SME Sector, as well as supervising the Special Assets Group which contributes to the improvement of the Bank’s portfolio thru the implementation of appropriate remedial measures of problem accounts and effective disposal of the Bank’s Real and Other Properties Acquired (ROPAs).
SVP Olfindo holds a Masters Degree in Business Administration (MBA) from the College of Holy Spirit Manila, and a Diploma in Business Administration and Development from the Concordia International College in Vancouver, British Columbia. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Business from the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) where she was conferred the College Distinguished Alumni during the 2017 UPLB Alumni Homecoming. She also completed the Leadership Development Program (LDP) in Ateneo Graduate School of Studies and Leadership Development (LEAD) by John Clements Leadership Institute (JCLI).
Mr. Sergey Vasiliev
Advisor to the Chairman of the Board of Directors
Eurasian Development Bank (EDB)
Mr. Sergey Vasiliev
Advisor to the Chairman of the Board of Directors
Sergey Vasiliev is Advisor to the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Eurasian Development Bank (EDB). Prior to this, he was Deputy Chairman of the Management Board of EDB since 2020.
His past affiliations include: Head the Working Centre for Economic Reforms under the Government of the Russian Federation from 1991-1994; Deputy Minister of Economy of the Russian Federation, 1994-1997; First Deputy Head of the Central Office of the Government of the Russian Federation, 1997-1998; Chairman of the Management Board of the International Investment Bank, 1998-1999; President of the Leontief International Centre for Social and Economic Research, 1999-2001. He was a member of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation; Chairman of the Committee for Financial Markets and Monetary Circulation; and representative of the Federation Council on the National Banking Council, from 2001-2007. He was Deputy Chairman of State Development Corporation VEB.RF, 2007-2019.
Mr. Vasiliev holds a degree in Economic Cybernetics from the Leningrad Institute of Finance and Economics. He is a Professor and Doctor of Economics.
The Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) is an international financial institution founded by Russia and Kazakhstan in January 2006 with the mission to facilitate the development of market economies, sustainable economic growth, and the expansion of mutual trade and other economic ties in its member states. The EDB’s charter capital totals US $7 billion. The member states of the Bank are the Republic of Armenia, the Republic of Belarus, the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Russian Federation, and the Republic of Tajikistan.
Mr. Robert Bastillo
Chief Executive Officer
Mr. Robert Bastillo assumed the post of President and Chief Executive Officer of the Small Business Corporation or SB Corp (formerly the Small Business Guarantee and Finance Corporation), an attached agency of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in September 2022. Previous to that, he served as Vice President for the Innovation and Advocacy Group for the Corporation from September 2021 up to his appointment as President/CEO.
Prior to joining the SB Corp, Mr. Bastillo was one of the country’s established management experts, with more than 25 years of experience in management consultancy work in the business, government, non-government, grassroots and international development sectors in the Philippines and other countries.
As a consultant, Mr. Bastillo provided services in multiple competencies in a wide range of thematic areas. He assisted more than 170 local and international organizations, programs and companies in the past 25 years, mostly as leader of a consulting team or as the chief consultant.
Mr. Bastillo was an Associate Professor at the Asian Institute of Management from 1993 to 2000, where he was the Director of the Master in Development Management Program in 1995-1996. He obtained his Master in Business Management (MBA) degree from the same institute in 1988. He also spent more than 15 years as an entrepreneur/business executive. His last post as executive prior to joining SB Corp was as CEO and Chief Finance Officer of Negosyong Pinoy (Venture South) Finance Corp., a foreign owned financing company specialized in the ‘missing middle” – graduating microenterprises, small, growing businesses, and medium sized companies.
Mr. Bastillo graduated from the University of the Philippines at Los Banosin with a BS in Agricultural Economics, Cum Laude.
Mr. Muhammad Azraini Abdul Hamid
Group Head, Group Private Equity & Strategic Investments
Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Bhd.
Mr. Muhammad Azraini Abdul Hamid
Group Head, Group Private Equity & Strategic Investments
Muhammad Azraini Abdul Hamid is Group Head, Private Equity and Strategic Investments for Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Berhad. He is an experienced private equity practitioner having served several funds during the tenure of his career. Under his current position, he was tasked to establish the strategy and framework for the private equity business of the Bank to provide impact capital. Prior to this role, he was leading the Operations of Bank Pembangunan.
In the course of his career, he was instrumental in the turnaround of a shipping venture fund and was the pioneer team member which established a Malaysian-focused Renewable Energy Fund. As a practitioner, he was involved in numerous originations and exits. This includes investments in healthcare, education, FMCG and manufacturing.
Mr. Hamid holds an MBA from the Alliance Manchester Business School and a Bachelor of Science in Management from Golden Gate University, San Francisco, California, USA.
Shri Goverdhan Singh Rawat
Deputy Managing Director
National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD)/India
Shri Goverdhan Singh Rawat
Deputy Managing Director
Shri Goverdhan S. Rawat is Deputy Managing Director of the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mumbai (NABARD) since November 2023. Prior to this appointment, he was Chief General Manager, of NABARD’s Regional office in Pune, Maharashtra. He has more than three decades of experience in working with the apex development bank in Project Appraisal, Infrastructure Financing, District Credit Planning, Rural Development, Consulting Services, Board Secretaries and HR.
He served NABARD in different capacities in Jammu & Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Maharashtra and the Head Office located in Mumbai. He had a stint as Faculty Member in Bankers Institute of Rural Development (BIRD) and National Bank Staff College in Lucknow, India. Furthermore, he has served as Nominee Director on the Boards of Pithoragarh Khetriya Gramin Bank, AFC India Limited and NABSAMRUDDHI Finance Limited, a subsidiary of NABARD.
Shri Rawat is a graduate in Agriculture & Animal Husbandry, CAIIB, and Post Graduate Diploma in Banking and Finance. He also holds an MBA degree in Leadership and Strategy.
Dr. Seyed Ali Heidari
Deputy Managing Director, Financial and International Affairs
Bank of Industry and Mine/Iran
Dr. Seyed Ali Heidari
Deputy Managing Director, Financial and International Affairs
Dr. SEYED ALI HEIDARI is a member of the Executive Board & Financial & International Deputy in BANK OF INDUSTRY & MINE (BIM.IR). Prior to this, he served in different capacities like, Financial Affairs Manager, Chief of Credit Assessment Dept., Financial Expert of Appraisal Department of the BIM.
Some of his notable accomplishments during his stint with the BIM include:
- He has done several feasibility study reports of investment projects that led to assist in the establishment or development of feasible and entrepreneurial economic projects in different regions of country.
- Guiding a lot of client’s validation reports leading to the establishment of several new cooperation models for the inclusive manufacturing and mining units for the use of bank credit services including working capital, LCs and guarantees.
- Designed the integrated economic projects risk assessment of BIM for the bank’s credit agents as one of the important and effective parts of feasibility study reports for investment projects.
- Secretary of the Asset-Liability Committee (ALCO) for optimal management of resources and liquidity of the bank.
Dr. Heidari has the following expertise in the field of writing, research and academic activities over the years: He was selected as Chief Research of the Bank of Industry & Mine by the Monetary & Banking Research Institute of Central Bank of Iran; University lecturer on banking & monetary subjects; Lecturer of feasibility study reports and principles in cooperation with training departments of different Iranian banks and other financial institutions; teach COMFAR software in Iranian banks and different organizations. Dr. Heidari recently published the following papers: (1) Extraction of clients financial behavioral model in Iranian developmental banks using multi-group modeling technique”; (2) “Role of developmental banks in water fresher projects financing in country”; (3) “Small and medium industries banking mechanism and its modeling in Iran”; (4) “A review on successful methods of developmental banking in developed and developing countries”.
Mr. Sergey Storchak
Senior Banker
Mr. Sergey Storchak is a Senior Banker at the Russian State Development Corporation VEB.RF in charge of engagement with international organizations, as well as global, regional and national development banks. Prior to joining VEB, he had a 15-year career as Deputy Minister of Finance, responsible for developing state policy in the area of public debt, management of state financial assets, cooperation with the International Monetary Fund, Multilateral Development Banks, G20 and other international forums.
Previously he held positions as Deputy Chairman of VEB.RF; Director of Division of the Foreign Credit and External Debt Department at the Ministry of Finance; Second Secretary of the USSR Permanent Mission to the UN Office and other International Organizations in Geneva at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Mr. Storchak graduated from the Moscow State Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the USSR, specializing in international economic relations. He holds a Ph.D. in Economics (“Candidate in Economics”).
H.E. Mr. Suon Sophal
Deputy Secretary General, Cambodia Investment Board
The Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC)
H.E. Mr. Suon Sophal
Deputy Secretary General, Cambodia Investment Board
Mr. Adama Mariko
Deputy Director
Mobilization, Partnerships and Communication Finance in Common Secretary General Agence Française de Développement (AFD)
Mr. Adama Mariko
Deputy Director
Appointed Deputy Director for Mobilization, Partnerships and Communication of AFD, Adama Mariko joined Finance in Common as Secretary General of the global movement, in mid-2021. Previously, Adama, as member of AFD’s Management Board was in charge of Financial Strategy, Performance and capital planning.
After a first experience in investment banking, Adama joined AFD Group in 2009 to serve the general interest and international cooperation. He has worked on field operations in West Africa, and in the Indian Ocean where he served as deputy director in AFD branch in La Réunion. He also served at the Paris headquarter in both the Finance and Risk departments.
Adama graduated in Finance from Paris-Dauphine and holds a Master in Public Administration from Ecole Nationale d’Administration (ENA).
Mr. Tarun Sharma
Deputy Managing Director
Mr. Tarun Sharma took charge as the Deputy Managing Director (DMD) of India Exim Bank on April 18, 2023. Prior to this, he was the Chief Financial Officer of the Bank and also led the Bank’s technology initiatives. He has over two decades of global experience in trade, competitiveness, industry and infrastructure development and policy, and recently conceptualised and developed a new trade facilitation initiative, viz., Trade Assistance Programme (TAP), which provides support through credit enhancement to trade instruments to enhance the capacity of commercial banks to support cross-border trade transactions. Mr. Sharma is the Chair of the BRICS Financial Services Working Group, India Chapter since March 2022, and has earlier led the Task Force on SME cooperation.
Prior to being the CFO, Mr. Sharma was heading the Bank’s New Delhi Office, with responsibilities covering structuring finance for enhancing capability of Indian companies; recovery and debt resolution; supporting socio-economic development projects in partner countries; handling government affairs and contributing to policy formulation. During this time, he was also responsible for launching a new initiative ‘Ubharte Sitaare Programme’ to identify and support enterprises that have latent potential by way of technology, product or process, through a mix of debt, equity and technical assistance. Mr. Sharma also established and managed a programme to support strategic projects globally under a concessional financing scheme of the Government.
Mr. Sharma has worked in various functional groups across the Bank, and has also served as the Bank’s Resident Representative (Americas) based in Washington DC, followed by a stint as a consultant with the World Bank’s Capacity Development and Partnerships Unit.
Mr. Sharma has authored a book ‘Project Exports: Connecting Continents with Indian Expertise’, exploring the instrumental role that project exports are capable of playing in India’s quest for a sustainable rapid economic growth. Mr. Sharma has a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Pune, followed by a postgraduate programme in management studies from Mumbai. He has also completed advanced executive management programmes from Cornell University in the U.S. and the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore.
H.E. Prof Dr. Sok Siphana
Senior Minister in charge of Special Missions (Multilateral Trade and Economic Affairs) and Chairman of the Trade Policy Advisory Board, Cambodia
H.E. Prof Dr. Sok Siphana
Senior Minister in charge of Special Missions (Multilateral Trade and Economic Affairs) and Chairman of the Trade Policy Advisory Board, Cambodia
Mr. Niklas Kesseler
Consultant
Momentus Global (Canada) (formerly International Financial Consulting Ltd.)
Mr. Niklas Kesseler
Consultant
“Niklas Kesseler is a senior consultant at Momentus Global, where he leads the company’s efforts on the United Nations’ Integrated National Financing Strategies (INFS), an initiative aimed at supporting countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through his leadership, Niklas has effectively guided the implementation of INFS with three governments in Sub-Saharan Africa, strategically enhancing their approaches to sustainable development.
Niklas also spearheaded the technical development of Momentus Global’s Health Diagnostic Tool (HDT). This innovative tool assesses and benchmarks the health of national development banks (NDBs), affirming their essential role as catalysts for change. The HDT focuses on increasing the efficiency, effectiveness, and impact of NDBs, ensuring they contribute significantly to national and regional development goals.
Niklas is also a co-author of the report “An Integrated Investment Framework: For Climate Adaptive and Water Resilient Food Systems,” in partnership with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and NDC Partnerships. The publication, presented at COP28 in Dubai, highlights the intersection of finance and sustainable food systems, directly supporting the SDGs by promoting resilience and adaptive capacity in agricultural practices.
Previously at the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Niklas led the Connect Americas Buyer Seller Program, which significantly boosted export and trade capacities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Latin America and the Caribbean. His efforts there further underscored his capability in fostering economic growth and integration in emerging markets.
Holding a bachelor’s degree in Philosophy, Political Science, and Economics (PPE) and a master’s degree in Development Economics from the London School of Economics, Niklas’s broad academic background complements his practical expertise. His profound understanding of both financial mechanisms and sustainable development challenges makes him a valued leader and innovator in the field of development finance.”
Mr. Prakash Kumar
Deputy Managing Director
Mr. Prakash Kumar took charge as Deputy Managing Director of SIDBI on November 07, 2023. Prior to this, he was the Chief General Manager in SIDBI and headed several important Verticals, viz., NBFC and Microfinance Vertical, Direct Credit Vertical, Risk Management Vertical, Treasury and Resource Management Vertical etc. He has also led the prestigious Poorest State Inclusive Growth (PSIG) Project implemented by SIDBI with support from DFID, UK.
He has more than 28 years of experience in SIDBI, in varied areas such as SME Financing, Microfinance, Risk Management, Treasury, NPA Management, Business Process Re-engineering etc. He has been invited as a speaker in several conferences and seminars concerning MSME financing & development related areas, both in India and abroad. He is a B.Tech in Chemical Engineering from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi and Masters in Financial Management from NMIMS, Mumbai.
Ms. Jane Manucdoc
Executive Director
Ms. Jane Manucdoc, Executive Director, of Alalay Sa Kaunlaran Microfinance Social Development Inc., and simultaneously serving as Board Treasurer for both the Microfinance Council of the Philippines (MCPI) and Microfinance Information Data Sharing Inc. (MIDAS). She is an experienced microfinance practitioner in the Philippines with a demonstrated history in working with development organizations dealing with microloans, micro insurance, capacity building programs, and social impact initiatives.
Mr. Wouter De Bruycker
CEO Infivex IT Solutions Inc.
Co-founder & CEO of The Nest Wouter De Bruycker, Co-founder & CEO of The Nest, a Belgium-based company supporting startups and entrepreneurs, believes in the innovative potential of ideas. The Nest acknowledges startup challenges and offers essential resources and guidance. Wouter’s background in business development, finance, and leadership, including CEO roles and successful businesses, provides invaluable expertise. His commitment to connection and inspiration drives The Nest’s growth and innovation. Additionally, he serves as the CEO of Infivex IT Solutions Inc., partnering with ADFIAP for its open finance initiative.
Session 1: Redefining Agriculture for a Climate-Smart and Sustainable Future
H.E. Dr. Kao Thach
ADFIAP 1st Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer
Agricultural & Rural Development Bank/Cambodia
H.E. Dr. Kao Thach
ADFIAP 1st Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer
H.E. Dr. Thach KAO, currently hold the portfolio of the Royal Government Delegate in charge as the C.E.O. of the Agricultural and Rural Development Bank (ARDB), was nominated to be the C.E.O. of the Rural Development Bank (RDB) on July 4th, 2014 then later transformed to be ARDB and to be member of the RDB’s Board on August 7th, 2014. Currently, he is a member of Supreme National Economic Council (SNEC) with the rank to Secretary of State and labor arbitrator of the Arbitration Council since 2003. He sworn in as Lawyer on October 8th, 2012 and adhered to member of Bar Association of Cambodia on October 10th, 2016.
Before holding ARDB’s portfolio, he was Deputy Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission of Cambodia with the rank and privilege to Undersecretary of State and the Head of Financial Market Division, Financial Industry Department, Ministry of Economy and Finance. Working in law field, he used to be a legal officer in the Ministry of Justice and also in court. He was one of the key persons working toward the establishment of Securities and Exchange Commission of Cambodia and Cambodia Securities Exchange.
Since joining the Ministry of Economy and Finance in 2003, he has undertaken numerous assignments relating to financial sector development in Cambodia. These assignments include member of working groups responsible for drafting Law on Government Securities and Law on Issuance and Trading of Non-government Securities, and member of working group responsible for developing Financial Development Strategy 2006-2015 and 2011-2020. As a representative of the Ministry of Economy and Finance he has been involved in various ASEAN working groups in relation to capital market development such ABMI, ACMF, and Financial Services Liberalization.
He holds Bachelor of Law (LLB-Faculty of Law and Economics) in 1998 and Master of Laws from Bond University (Australia) in 2002, with an emphasis of International Trade Law System, WTO Legal Framework, Alternative Dispute Resolution, and Dispute System Design. On May 11th, 2019 he graduated Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) from EU Business School. His thesis is on “The Rural Development Bank’s Transformation: The Case of Cambodia”. On December 30th, 2021 he graduated Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy from the University of Cambodia. His dissertation on “The role of Securities regulators in Efficient Supervision and Regulations of the Securities Market in Cambodia”.
Concerning the publications, in August 2022, his research paper: “Does the Role of Securities Regulators Matter for The Development of Securities Market in Cambodia? An Exploratory Study” was published by Centre for ASEAN Studies (CAS)–Centre for International Management and Development Antwerp (CIMDA), in Belgium. In 2002, his book on “Dispute Settlement System of the World Trade Organization and Theories and Principle of Dispute System Design” was published by UTPP Press in Cambodia.
Mr. Liduvino Geron
Executive Vice President
EVP Liduvino S. Geron has spent more than two decades in Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK), holding various positions that equipped him with the experience and competence to lead the Bank’s Branch Banking Sector. From a management trainee in 1994, he rose from the ranks and headed various units, including the Bank’s Visayas Branches Group, Lending Program Management Group, Credit Policy Department, Strategic Planning Group, National Development Lending Sector, and most recently, the Branch Banking Sector.
From July 2020 to March 2022, he was appointed as Office-In-Charge of the United Coconut Planters Bank (UCPB), then one of the largest banks in the Philippines, where he played a pivotal role in the successful merger of UCPB and LANDBANK in 2022. EVP Geron earned his degree in Agricultural Engineering from the University of the Philippines – Los Baños and pursued his master’s degree in Systems Agriculture at the University of Western Sydney which he completed in 1992.
Mr. Manolo M. Martinez
Vice President for Product Development & Innovation | Chief Innovation Officer CARD MRI
CARD SME Bank/Philippines
Mr. Manolo M. Martinez
Vice President for Product Development & Innovation | Chief Innovation Officer CARD MRI
A dynamic and forward-thinking executive with over three decades of experience in credit, finance, and retail. Throughout his illustrious career, Mr. Martinez has been at the forefront of driving innovation and leading teams to remarkable success. His proven track record speaks volumes, showcasing his adeptness in identifying new opportunities, developing innovative products and services, and implementing effective business models that yield tangible results.
In his leadership roles at esteemed institutions such as CARD SME Bank and Unionbank of the Philippines, Mr. Martinez has demonstrated an exceptional ability to spearhead strategic initiatives. Whether it’s establishing an innovation center or orchestrating comprehensive marketing campaigns, his visionary leadership has consistently resulted in increased customer engagement and revenue growth. His proficiency in digital strategy development, innovation management, and cross-functional team leadership make him an invaluable asset in driving organizational growth and differentiation.
Mr. Martinez’s commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and driving change within organizations is truly commendable. As Vice President for Product Development & Innovation at CARD SME Bank and concurrently as Chief Innovation Officer of CARD MRI, he has championed the establishment of innovation frameworks and empowered employees to contribute to the creative process, leading to the development of impactful solutions and products. His dedication to continuous learning is evident in his academic background, which includes a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University Of Santo Tomas in the Philippines, and executive courses such as Basic Strategic Management Program from John Gokongwei School of Management (AdMU) and Mastering Design Thinking from MIT Sloan Executive Education. Mr. Martinez’s diverse skill set and unwavering commitment to excellence make him a truly exceptional leader poised to inspire and drive transformative change.
Dr. Prasun Das
Secretary General
Session 2: Climate-Smart Practices
Mr. Saud A. Minam
ADFIAP Chairman/Chief Executive Officer
Mr. Minam is Chief Executive Officer of the Fiji Development Bank. A highly accomplished professional with 30 years’ experience within the financial sector, he is a thoughtful leader and passionate knowledge sharer within the banking sector. He has grown with changes and technical advancements and is recognized for his ability to negotiate contracts and manage banking agreements with integrity and discretion.
He has extensive experience working with stakeholders to exceed client needs, assessing commercial needs, and acting as the conduit between operational practicalities and technical abilities. He enjoys working collaboratively, leading, and mentoring staff to ensure team effectiveness.
Eng. Mohammed Al Ghassani
Chairman of the Board
Eng. Mohammed Al Ghassani was appointed Chairman, Development Bank, Oman in June 2022. He has over 32 years of experience in senior public and private sector positions.
In 2015, Mohammed was elected to the Majlis A’ Shura (the Lower House of Oman’s Parliament), In 2023, he was appointed to the Majlis A’Dawla (Upper House of Oman’s Parliament) by His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.
He sits on several Government Advisory Committees and is a member of a number of Boards.
Mohammed holds a BSc in Electronic Engineering from the University of Bolton, an MBA from the University of Lincoln and a Senior Executive Management Certificate from Harvard Business School.
Ms. Carolyn Olfindo
Senior Vice President
SVP Carolyn I. Olfindo is the Officer-in-Charge of DBP’s Development and Resiliency Sector whose function is to achieve the development mandate of DBP through expanding the reach of banking to underserved areas and providing financing for the countryside where investments are required for strong and inclusive development. To take on a more focused approach on sustainable development while reaching out to people that have been locked out of the conventional banking system due to low income, location in far flung and/or disaster-prone areas and lack of economic opportunities. Likewise, to give the Bank the opportunity to build possibilities thru the provision of innovative and unconventional ways of financing progress.
She oversees the crafting of the Bank’s development programs in Infrastructure, Logistics and Tourism, Environment & Climate Change, Energy, Water and Sanitation, and for the SME Sector, as well as supervising the Special Assets Group which contributes to the improvement of the Bank’s portfolio thru the implementation of appropriate remedial measures of problem accounts and effective disposal of the Bank’s Real and Other Properties Acquired (ROPAs).
SVP Olfindo holds a Masters Degree in Business Administration (MBA) from the College of Holy Spirit Manila, and a Diploma in Business Administration and Development from the Concordia International College in Vancouver, British Columbia. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Business from the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) where she was conferred the College Distinguished Alumni during the 2017 UPLB Alumni Homecoming. She also completed the Leadership Development Program (LDP) in Ateneo Graduate School of Studies and Leadership Development (LEAD) by John Clements Leadership Institute (JCLI).
Session 3: Technology-enabled Solutions / Agri-Fintech
Ms. Tshering Om
Chief Executive Officer
A banking professional with extensive experience spanning over two decades in various leadership roles within the finance sector. Equipped with a Master of Business Administration from the University of Canberra and a Bachelor of Commerce from St. Josephs College, Darjeeling, India, complemented by a solid track record of academic excellence. Currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Bhutan Development Bank Limited (BDBL), adept at steering organizations towards sustainable growth and profitability. Demonstrated expertise in investment management, credit assessment, risk mitigation, and strategic decision-making. Known for fostering a culture of integrity, responsibility, and innovation to achieve corporate objectives.
Shri Goverdhan Singh Rawat
Deputy Managing Director
National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD)/India
Shri Goverdhan Singh Rawat
Deputy Managing Director
Shri Goverdhan S. Rawat is Deputy Managing Director of the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mumbai (NABARD) since November 2023. Prior to this appointment, he was Chief General Manager, of NABARD’s Regional office in Pune, Maharashtra. He has more than three decades of experience in working with the apex development bank in Project Appraisal, Infrastructure Financing, District Credit Planning, Rural Development, Consulting Services, Board Secretaries and HR.
He served NABARD in different capacities in Jammu & Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Maharashtra and the Head Office located in Mumbai. He had a stint as Faculty Member in Bankers Institute of Rural Development (BIRD) and National Bank Staff College in Lucknow, India. Furthermore, he has served as Nominee Director on the Boards of Pithoragarh Khetriya Gramin Bank, AFC India Limited and NABSAMRUDDHI Finance Limited, a subsidiary of NABARD.
Shri Rawat is a graduate in Agriculture & Animal Husbandry, CAIIB, and Post Graduate Diploma in Banking and Finance. He also holds an MBA degree in Leadership and Strategy.
Session 4: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Mr. Akihiro Suzuki
General Manager, Global Business Planning & Coordination Department
Development Bank of Japan, Inc (DBJ)
Mr. Akihiro Suzuki
General Manager, Global Business Planning & Coordination Department
Akihiro Suzuki currently serves as General Manager, Head of Global Business Planning Office, Business Planning & Coordination Department and Head of Sustainability Management Office, Corporate Planning & Coordination Department at Development Bank of Japan Inc. He is responsible for DBJ’s overall international businesses, including monitoring overseas loan and investment exposure and overseeing international subsidiaries in the UK, US, Singapore, and China. He is also responsible for DBJ’s sustainability management, including enhancing DBJ’s disclosures in line with the Task Force on Climate Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) framework, handling the internal executive meetings about sustainability (Sustainability Committee), maintaining relationships with competent authorities such as the Ministry of the Environment and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, monitoring international trends and initiatives as to sustainability (e.g., the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero [GFANZ]), and attending COP and other international conferences related to sustainability. He has a strong professional background for over 20 years as a banker, including cross-border corporate finance transactions, complex project finance transactions (for offshore vessels, real estate, etc.) and equity co-investment transactions (for M&A) with DBJ’s clients. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Tokyo (Tokyo, Japan) and Master of Business Administration from INSEAD (Fontainebleau, France).
Mr. Sergey Vasiliev
Advisor to the Chairman of the Board of Directors
Eurasian Development Bank (EDB)
Mr. Sergey Vasiliev
Advisor to the Chairman of the Board of Directors
Sergey Vasiliev is Advisor to the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Eurasian Development Bank (EDB). Prior to this, he was Deputy Chairman of the Management Board of EDB since 2020.
His past affiliations include: Head the Working Centre for Economic Reforms under the Government of the Russian Federation from 1991-1994; Deputy Minister of Economy of the Russian Federation, 1994-1997; First Deputy Head of the Central Office of the Government of the Russian Federation, 1997-1998; Chairman of the Management Board of the International Investment Bank, 1998-1999; President of the Leontief International Centre for Social and Economic Research, 1999-2001. He was a member of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation; Chairman of the Committee for Financial Markets and Monetary Circulation; and representative of the Federation Council on the National Banking Council, from 2001-2007. He was Deputy Chairman of State Development Corporation VEB.RF, 2007-2019.
Mr. Vasiliev holds a degree in Economic Cybernetics from the Leningrad Institute of Finance and Economics. He is a Professor and Doctor of Economics.
The Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) is an international financial institution founded by Russia and Kazakhstan in January 2006 with the mission to facilitate the development of market economies, sustainable economic growth, and the expansion of mutual trade and other economic ties in its member states. The EDB’s charter capital totals US $7 billion. The member states of the Bank are the Republic of Armenia, the Republic of Belarus, the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Russian Federation, and the Republic of Tajikistan.
Mr. Niklas Kesseler
Consultant
Momentus Global (Canada) (formerly International Financial Consulting Ltd.)
Mr. Niklas Kesseler
Consultant
“Niklas Kesseler is a senior consultant at Momentus Global, where he leads the company’s efforts on the United Nations’ Integrated National Financing Strategies (INFS), an initiative aimed at supporting countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through his leadership, Niklas has effectively guided the implementation of INFS with three governments in Sub-Saharan Africa, strategically enhancing their approaches to sustainable development.
Niklas also spearheaded the technical development of Momentus Global’s Health Diagnostic Tool (HDT). This innovative tool assesses and benchmarks the health of national development banks (NDBs), affirming their essential role as catalysts for change. The HDT focuses on increasing the efficiency, effectiveness, and impact of NDBs, ensuring they contribute significantly to national and regional development goals.
Niklas is also a co-author of the report “An Integrated Investment Framework: For Climate Adaptive and Water Resilient Food Systems,” in partnership with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and NDC Partnerships. The publication, presented at COP28 in Dubai, highlights the intersection of finance and sustainable food systems, directly supporting the SDGs by promoting resilience and adaptive capacity in agricultural practices.
Previously at the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Niklas led the Connect Americas Buyer Seller Program, which significantly boosted export and trade capacities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Latin America and the Caribbean. His efforts there further underscored his capability in fostering economic growth and integration in emerging markets.
Holding a bachelor’s degree in Philosophy, Political Science, and Economics (PPE) and a master’s degree in Development Economics from the London School of Economics, Niklas’s broad academic background complements his practical expertise. His profound understanding of both financial mechanisms and sustainable development challenges makes him a valued leader and innovator in the field of development finance.”
Mr. Prakash Kumar
Deputy Managing Director
Mr. Prakash Kumar took charge as Deputy Managing Director of SIDBI on November 07, 2023. Prior to this, he was the Chief General Manager in SIDBI and headed several important Verticals, viz., NBFC and Microfinance Vertical, Direct Credit Vertical, Risk Management Vertical, Treasury and Resource Management Vertical etc. He has also led the prestigious Poorest State Inclusive Growth (PSIG) Project implemented by SIDBI with support from DFID, UK.
He has more than 28 years of experience in SIDBI, in varied areas such as SME Financing, Microfinance, Risk Management, Treasury, NPA Management, Business Process Re-engineering etc. He has been invited as a speaker in several conferences and seminars concerning MSME financing & development related areas, both in India and abroad. He is a B.Tech in Chemical Engineering from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi and Masters in Financial Management from NMIMS, Mumbai.
Session 5: Partnership & Collaboration
Ms. Lindsay Timarong, AIFA®, GFS®
President & Chief Executive Officer
Pacific Islands Development Bank/Guam
Ms. Lindsay Timarong, AIFA®, GFS®
President & Chief Executive Officer
Lindsay is the President & Chief Executive Officer for Pacific Islands Development Bank (PIDB), a regional development finance institution headquartered in Guam and established in 1989 to advance the economic and social development of Pacific Island nations and territories. By virtue of her position as President & Chief Executive Officer, Lindsay serves as Chairperson of the PIDB Board of Directors, and is accountable to the governments of the Marshall Islands, Palau, CNMI, Guam, the four State Governments that comprise the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Kwajalein Atoll Development Authority—the shareholders of PIDB. Prior to joining the PIDB management team, Lindsay served for over a decade as Senior Bank Examiner for the Palau Financial Institutions Commission, an autonomous national agency responsible for the licensing and supervision of financial institutions. She is also a Consultant and Founder of HeartKey Synergies, a business and financial consulting firm in Palau.
Lindsay currently serves as Chairperson for the Republic of Palau Compact of Free Association (COFA) Trust Fund Board of Trustees, having been appointed by reknowned Palau former President Tommy E. Remengesau, Jr. in October 2015, and reappointed by current President, His Excellency Surangel Whipps, Jr., in 2021. She recently served on the Palau Compact Review Advisory Committee under Palau’s Chief Compact Negotiator and Minister of Finance. She has also served in various capacities on other boards and committees for the Republic of Palau at the national, state and community levels.
Lindsay serves as Adjunct Faculty Instructor for New Zealand based fi360 Pacific. fi360 Pacific (www.fi360.co.nz) was established in order to bring U.S.-based fi360 Inc. fiduciary education programs to the Asia Pacific more effectively, and to adapt such trainings to local legal frameworks and practical application when required. fi360 (www.fi360.com) is the globally recognized leader in fiduciary education.
Lindsay earned a Master’s degree in Economics from the University of Hawaii-Manoa and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Washington State University. She is U.S. FDIC trained and is a qualified Examiner-In-Charge. In addition, she holds the distinguished Accredited Investment Fiduciary Analyst® (AIFA®) designation. She was awarded the AIFA® designation in 2017 from the U.S. Center for Fiduciary Studies™, the standards-setting body for fiduciary education and training worldwide. She earned the Global Fiduciary Strategist® designation in November 2022.
Mr. Edwin Syahruzad
President/Director
Indonesian Citizen, based in Indonesia. Edwin Syahruzad obtained his Bachelor of Economics from University of Indonesia in 1993.
Previously he served as Financing & Investment Director (2014-2019) and Executive Vice President/Head of Financing & Investment Division (2009-2014) at PT Sarana Multi Infrastruktur (Persero) (“PT SMI”). Before joining PT SMI, he served for 10 years in several positions at PT Danareksa (Persero) and culminating in the position of Director at PT Danareksa Sekuritas. In addition, he had worked as Analyst at PT Penthasena Securities (1996-1999), PT Amstel Securities Indonesia (1995-1996), The Industrial Bank of Japan, Jakarta Branch (1993-1995) and as Audit Committee Member at PT Timah (Persero) Tbk. (2011-2012).
He was appointed as President Director of PT SMI since August 13th, 2019 pursuant to the Minister of Finance Decree No. 651/KMK.06/2019. Previously he was appointed as Director of PT SMI since August 19th, 2014 pursuant to Minister of Finance Decree No. 389/KMK.06/2014. As President Director, he is in charge of overseeing the overall operations of the Company, including the development of the Company’s long-term strategy, and ensuring compliance with good corporate governance in all of the Company’s operations.
Mr. Rajan Ashok Uttamchandani
Chairman of the Board & Chief Executive Officer
Esquire Financing, Inc./Philippines
Mr. Rajan Ashok Uttamchandani
Chairman of the Board & Chief Executive Officer
Rajan, who joined the financial industry at a very young age, working with his Father at Esquire international during his time in High School; is now the President and CEO of Esquire International Financing Inc., as well as the Chairman, and CEO of Esquire Financing Inc.
Rajan, spearheaded the launch of Esquire Financing Inc., just after graduating from Bentley College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Corporate Finance and Accounting. Following this Rajan, continued to learn, and grow his knowledge in Business and Finance. Starting with earning a Master’s in Entrepreneurship from the Asian Institute of Management, after which he finished the Key Executives Program and the President Management Program at Harvard Business School. He also completed the YPO Innovation Programme at Stanford Business school in the United States and the YPO scaling up programme at London Business School.
Not only is he an entrepreneur who assists in growing small and medium enterprises in the Philippines, through finance and strategic consultancy. He is also a philanthropist, working closely with Gawad Kalinga, as well as launched Help Foundation, and is an activ e member of the Rotary Club of the Philippines.
Mr. Aishamuddin bin Zulkefli
Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Planning & Development)
TEKUN Nasional/Malaysia
Mr. Aishamuddin bin Zulkefli
Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Planning & Development)
MR. AISHAM, a Senior Management with over 20 years of progressive experience specialized in finance, accounts, corporate management & business development and currently served as the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of TEKUN Nasional, a government owned financial institution under the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, Malaysia since May 2017 where he was responsible for the group strategic management, entrepreneurs development, ar-rahnu operations, shariah compliance, organizational system & method, research and innovation.
Mr. Aisham started his career as Auditor with KPMG Peat Marwick, Kuala Lumpur in 1992. He has held various management positions in companies and government’s agencies from 1993 to 2017 include as Accountant, Chief Financial Officer and Company Secretary.
He is a Chartered Accountant member with the Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA). He holds a Master of Business Administration (Leadership) from Universiti Tun Abdul Razak / UNIRAZAK, Kuala Lumpur and a Bachelor of Accountancy from Universiti Putra Malaysia / UPM, Serdang. He has attended and participated in various forums and conferences at the national, regional and international levels.
Ms. Alexandra Matveeva
Executive Deputy Chairman of the Board
International Bank for Economic Cooperation (IBEC)/Russian Federation
Ms. Alexandra Matveeva
Executive Deputy Chairman of the Board
Ms. Alexandra Matveeva is Executive Deputy Chairman of the Board of the International Bank for Economic Cooperation, Russian Federation. She oversees the bank’s business with corporate clients and financial institutions, with the key focus on sustainable trade finance, including credit assessment process. Prior to her current responsibility, she was the Head of Client Relations Department, Trade Finance & Syndications where she implemented several projects to finance clients in IBEC member countries (Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Romania, Vietnam, Mongolia, Russia, Poland) and to support exports from IBEC member countries to third countries (Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Belarus, Armenia) with partner banks. The Loan & Documentary Portfolio grew by more than 20 times between 2018 and 2021, and included direct lending, syndicated financing, letters of credit, guarantees, IRUs, supply chain finance, forfeiting, and tied finance transactions. New products were introduced, including cash management services.
Under her leadership, the Bank has built a significant portfolio of sustainable financing aligned with SDGs, which in 2023 exceeded 60% of the total IBEC project portfolio. One of the most notable projects is the loan to support the Green Loan Program of the Trade and Development Bank of Mongolia for SMEs aimed at the implementation of UN SDGs. Also, the Bank implemented green forfaiting deals supporting import of renewable energy equipment for solar power plants in Vietnam. IBEC pays a lot of attention to the healthcare sector and supports supplies of pharmaceuticals and medicines for treatment in oncology, hematology, neurology, cardiology. IBEC also supports infrastructure development in its member states, including railways and logistics centers.
Prior to IBEC Alexandra Matveeva was the Head of Trade Finance in Russian Offices of Deutsche Bank (May 2014 – March 2018) and BNP Paribas (February 2007 – May 2014), and a number of Russian banks (before 2007).
IBEC is a UN-registered intergovernmental development financial institution whose purpose is to promote the development of the economies of the Bank’s member countries, foreign economic relations between economic entities of the member countries, as well as the expansion of their foreign trade relations with counterparties from other countries.
The main directions of the Bank’s activities are to support export-oriented companies of the member countries, assist them in entering new markets and participating in sustainable development projects in accordance with the 2030 Agenda.
Session 6: Policy & Investment Framework
Mr. Nassir Alkasabi
Director General of Corporate Strategy
Nassir Alkasabi is the Director General of Corporate Strategy at the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD). He is a strategy expert with over 15 years of experience in infrastructure development funding. He has a distinguished background in strategy development and implementation, and is adept at designing and executing strategies to optimize opportunities. He is also an exemplary communicator with the passion and drive needed to cultivate and foster professional relationships while maintaining trust.
Nassir has led a number of successful initiatives. In partnership with Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and Willis Towers Watson (WTW), he played a key role in evolving SFD’s organizational structure. He also updated SFD’s core operating model in partnership with BCG. Additionally, he helped to apply and operationalize the corporate strategy to the workplace, in partnership with BCG and Price Waterhouse Coopers (PWC). Furthermore, he designed and operationalized the Project Management Office at SFD. Finally, he led the process to re-engineer the processes of the SFD Operations department, applying global best practice.
Nassir joined the SFD in 2003 as a Technical Consultant. He has since held a number of senior positions, including Regional Manager, Operations Department, Deputy Transformation Department GM, and Acting Corporate Strategy Director. He was appointed to his current role in 2021.
Nassir holds a BSc. in Industrial Engineering from King Abdulaziz University and an MBA Masters of Business Administration from the University of Glasgow. He is also a published author, having written a report for the UNDP on the topic of: “Partnership in Development and South-South Cooperation/Official development Assistance of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia” in 2016. He is also involved in policy making in the GCC region, and co-authored an article on “Saudi Arabia’s Support for International Development” in 2017.
V. Bruce J. Tolentino, Ph.D.
Private Sector Member, The Monetary Board
Dr. Tolentino has over 35 years of progressively senior-level experience in international development, governance, development finance and planning of socio-economic projects in Asia, Africa, and Central America. He also has direct experience in the management of international, large-scale governance and rural and agricultural programs.
Before joining the Monetary Board at Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Dr. Tolentino’s most recent posts include Deputy Director-General and Secretary to the Board of Trustees at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and Chief Economist and Director of Economic Reform and Development Programs and Country Representative for Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka at The Asia Foundation
Mr. Tarun Sharma
Deputy Managing Director
Mr. Tarun Sharma took charge as the Deputy Managing Director (DMD) of India Exim Bank on April 18, 2023. Prior to this, he was the Chief Financial Officer of the Bank and also led the Bank’s technology initiatives. He has over two decades of global experience in trade, competitiveness, industry and infrastructure development and policy, and recently conceptualised and developed a new trade facilitation initiative, viz., Trade Assistance Programme (TAP), which provides support through credit enhancement to trade instruments to enhance the capacity of commercial banks to support cross-border trade transactions. Mr. Sharma is the Chair of the BRICS Financial Services Working Group, India Chapter since March 2022, and has earlier led the Task Force on SME cooperation.
Prior to being the CFO, Mr. Sharma was heading the Bank’s New Delhi Office, with responsibilities covering structuring finance for enhancing capability of Indian companies; recovery and debt resolution; supporting socio-economic development projects in partner countries; handling government affairs and contributing to policy formulation. During this time, he was also responsible for launching a new initiative ‘Ubharte Sitaare Programme’ to identify and support enterprises that have latent potential by way of technology, product or process, through a mix of debt, equity and technical assistance. Mr. Sharma also established and managed a programme to support strategic projects globally under a concessional financing scheme of the Government.
Mr. Sharma has worked in various functional groups across the Bank, and has also served as the Bank’s Resident Representative (Americas) based in Washington DC, followed by a stint as a consultant with the World Bank’s Capacity Development and Partnerships Unit.
Mr. Sharma has authored a book ‘Project Exports: Connecting Continents with Indian Expertise’, exploring the instrumental role that project exports are capable of playing in India’s quest for a sustainable rapid economic growth. Mr. Sharma has a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Pune, followed by a postgraduate programme in management studies from Mumbai. He has also completed advanced executive management programmes from Cornell University in the U.S. and the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore.
H.E. Prof Dr. Sok Siphana
Senior Minister in charge of Special Missions (Multilateral Trade and Economic Affairs) and Chairman of the Trade Policy Advisory Board, Cambodia
H.E. Prof Dr. Sok Siphana
Senior Minister in charge of Special Missions (Multilateral Trade and Economic Affairs) and Chairman of the Trade Policy Advisory Board, Cambodia