The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has named Takeo Konishi as the new Director General of its South Asia Department (SARD), tasking him with spearheading and implementing strategic initiatives in the region. Konishi officially assumed this role on December 11. In addition to his position as Director General, he will also continue as the Country Director for India, a role he has held since September 2020. During his tenure in India, Konishi played a pivotal role in achieving the country's program and operational objectives. Notably, he led the formulation of the 2023-2027 country partnership strategy and fostered stronger collaborations across various government levels.
Under Konishi's leadership, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) played a vital role as a significant international partner during India's G20 Presidency, actively contributing to pivotal Sherpa and finance track working groups. Konishi expressed satisfaction with the valuable strategic inputs provided by these groups, supported by ADB, which contributed to shaping the G20 Leaders' Declaration. He anticipates guiding ADB's South Asia team, fostering continuous dialogues on crucial topics such as climate change, urban development, energy transition, the convergence of climate and health issues, and the promotion of women's empowerment.
Konishi, a Japanese national, obtained a master's degree in public and international affairs from the University of Pittsburgh in the United States and completed his bachelor's degree in political science at Lynchburg College, US. With over 27 years of professional experience, including 24 years at ADB, he has progressively advanced through various senior roles since joining as a Young Professional in August 1999. Prior to his assignment in India, Konishi served as the Director of the Public Management, Financial Sector, and Trade Division within SARD. He also held the position of Country Director for Uzbekistan, overseeing ADB's team in managing corporate and country-level strategies and operations.