Rachel Kyte

Rachel Kyte is Vice President of Sustainable Development at the World Bank. As such, she has overall responsibilities for the organization’s global work in agriculture, the environment, infrastructure, urban development, and social development. She has held the position since September, 2011.

Prior to taking up her current post, from 2008 Ms. Kyte was Vice President for Business Advisory Services at the International Finance Corporation, the private sector focused arm of the World Bank Group.  There, she focused IFC’s Advisory Services to deliver more measurable impact for the world’s poorest people and in the most challenging environments, including countries affected by conflict.

She led IFC’s efforts to support inclusive business models, including women's businesses. She also spearheaded adoption of the IFC Development Goals, the first set of development goals specific to the private sector.

From 2004, Ms. Kyte served as IFC’s Director for Environmental and Social Development, where she led efforts to develop new sustainability performance standards. Through the Equator Principles, these standards are now a global benchmark for private businesses, illustrating that improved environment and social standards can raise financial performance in developing countries.

From 2000 to 2004, Ms. Kyte served in the office of IFC’s Compliance Advisor/Ombudsman. Prior to joining IFC, she was a member of the management team of the World Conservation Union—IUCN. She has held elected positions in Europe, and founded and led non-government organizations focusing on women, the environment, health, and rights. 

Ms. Kyte holds a Master of Arts in International Relations from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, and a Bachelor of Arts in politics and history from the University of London.

She succeeds outgoing Fund Council Chair Inger Andersen.