Unified rep of World Bank Group in Azerbaijan revealed

Sacha Akira Backes has been appointed as the unified representative of the World Bank Group (WBG) in Azerbaijan, a source within the organization told Report.

"Initially, Backes was expected to assume duties as the World Bank Country Manager in Azerbaijan from July 1, 2026, succeeding Stefanie Stallmeister, who has headed the representative office since July 1, 2023. However, due to the decision to transition to a unified WBG representative model, it was decided to assign Backes the functions of Country Manager for the International Finance Corporation (IFC) as well. Backes will assume his duties in the near future," the source noted.

Backes has been working at the IFC for nearly 19 years.