The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has appointed Alessandro Vittadini as the new head of the Bank’s operations in Lebanon. Based in Beirut, Mr Vittadini assumed his new position on 14 July, succeeding Khalil Dinguizli.
He will be responsible for the EBRD’s investments and operations in the country and will report to Gretchen Biery, the Bank’s Director for the Eastern Mediterranean region.
Mr Vittadini said: “It is a great honour to take on this responsibility at such a pivotal moment for Lebanon. I look forward to deepening collaboration with government partners and the international community to advance policy dialogue that strengthens our investment climate. By supporting the private sector and unlocking sustainable growth opportunities, we can help to drive Lebanon’s economic recovery and long-term resilience.”
An Italian national, Mr Vittadini brings a wealth of experience to the role, having spent almost 20 years at the EBRD. He combines banking and policy, having served in a range of different positions, including Adviser to the Board Director for Italy and Banker in the Western Balkans team. In his most recent role as Head of the SME Finance and Development Grants Unit, he focused on fundraising and the development of innovative financial and advisory instruments for small and medium-sized enterprises. He also contributed to the launch of flagship programmes such as Women in Business, Youth in Business and Star Venture.
Mr Vittadini graduated Magna cum Laude from the University of Milan and has an LLM in Banking and Finance from King’s College London.
Since the start of its operations in Lebanon in 2018, the EBRD has invested €840 million in the country, focusing on enhancing the competitiveness of the private sector, providing trade guarantees, promoting sustainable energy, and improving the quality and efficiency of public services, as well as offering advisory support to 450 small and medium-sized enterprises.