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World Bank Group appoints head of unified country representation in Azerbaijan

09 September 2026 16:26 (UTC +04:00)

Sacha Backes has been appointed as the new head of the World Bank Group’s unified country representation in Azerbaijan, APA-Economics reports.

The appointment was made as part of the World Bank Group’s transition to a unified country representation model in Azerbaijan.

Although it was initially reported that he had been appointed World Bank Country Manager for Azerbaijan, it was noted that Sacha Backes will oversee the World Bank Group’s overall activities in Azerbaijan, including those of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC).

The World Bank’s Azerbaijan office said that Backes assumed his duties on September 1. It was noted that the World Bank Group is transitioning to a unified country representation model across all countries.

Previously, Stefanie Stallmeister served as the World Bank Country Manager for Azerbaijan. She left the position on July 1 following the completion of her term.

Prior to his appointment, Sacha Backes served as a Senior Investment Officer in IFC’s Manufacturing, Agribusiness and Services team for Europe. He has worked at IFC for more than 17 years and has also been involved in managing projects in the Africa region.