Jeehan Abdul Ghaffar

Jeehan Abdul Ghaffar is an accomplished strategic leader with over 20 years of professional experience in international development, driving impactful policies and operations at corporate, global, and regional levels. Her work addresses some of the most pressing global challenges, including poverty reduction, conflict resolution, climate change, private sector development, human development, and women’s empowerment. Renowned for her strategic vision, problem-solving acumen, and consensus-building skills, Ghaffar excels in forging collaborative partnerships to tackle complex strategic, policy, and operational issues. Currently, Ghaffar serves as the senior advisor to the executive director at the World Bank Group, representing countries from the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia to the board of directors. In this role, she provides critical insights and guidance on a broad spectrum of development priorities. Additionally, she has served as an advisor to the former dean of the World Bank Group’s board, enhancing decision making on pivotal global initiatives. Previously, Ghaffar was the deputy head of the United Kingdom Department for International Development in Yemen, where she played a pivotal role in designing and implementing development strategies. Ghaffar holds a PhD in conflict analysis and resolution from the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution at George Mason University. As a Fulbright scholar, she earned a master’s in international development from the University of Denver.