World Bank Group appoints Ireland's Paschal Donohoe as MD and Chief Knowledge Officer

The World Bank Group has appointed Paschal Donohoe as its Managing Director and Chief Knowledge Officer, the multilateral lender announced on Tuesday. Donohoe, who has been serving as Ireland’s Minister for Finance since January 2025, will assume the new role on November 24.

Donohoe also served as President of the Eurogroup, the collective of eurozone finance ministers, from 2020 to 2023. Before entering politics, he worked for nearly a decade at Procter & Gamble, giving him experience across both public and private sectors.

World Bank Group President Ajay Banga said Donohoe’s background in policymaking and his familiarity with how private capital and industries operate would help the institution deliver more effective programmes. Donohoe is expected to oversee the World Bank’s “Knowledge Bank,” which plays a key role in shaping research, policy advice and development solutions offered to member countries.


In his new position, Donohoe will be responsible for expanding the Bank’s engagement with governments, civil society groups, foundations and philanthropic organisations. He will also guide how the institution gathers and applies expertise in regulation, technology and development practices across its global operations.

Donohoe said in a statement that the role aligns with his long-standing focus on cooperation between governments and international institutions to address economic and social challenges.

The Irish politician has received several recognitions, including the European of the Year award from the European Movement Ireland and the French government’s Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur.