Diariétou Gaye
Vice President People and Culture, World Bank
Senegal

Diariétou Gaye
Vice President People and Culture, World Bank
Senegal
Diariétou Gaye, a distinguished Senegalese national, secures her esteemed position in Avance Media’s 2023 list of 100 Most Influential African Women as the World Bank Group Vice President and Corporate Secretary. Recognized for her exceptional contributions to global development, Ms. Gaye is a visionary leader with a profound impact on governance, strategy, and fostering dialogue between key stakeholders.
Ms. Gaye’s journey with the World Bank began in January 1996, where she joined as a Country Economist after serving in the Ministry of Economy and Finance in Senegal. With over 25 years of dedicated service, she has ascended through various leadership roles, showcasing her expertise in economics, management, and policy change. Her roles included serving as Country Manager for Benin and Togo, Country Director for Kenya, Rwanda, Eritrea, and Uganda, as well as Regional Director for East African countries at the African Development Bank from 2007 to 2010.
In her previous role as the World Bank Director of Strategy and Operations for the East and Southern Africa Region, Ms. Gaye played a pivotal role in setting strategies and work programs across 26 Eastern and Southern countries, overseeing a substantial portfolio of projects exceeding $49 billion.
As the World Bank Group Vice President and Corporate Secretary, Ms. Gaye’s primary responsibilities center around ensuring the integrity of the World Bank Group’s governance framework. She facilitates effective interaction and dialogue between the Board of Governors, Boards of Executive Directors, and the institution’s management. Additionally, she contributes to consensus building among shareholders and provides vital support services to the Boards and management.
Known as a passionate development professional, Diariétou Gaye’s commitment extends beyond her official roles. Advocating for more funding to local humanitarian organizations and emphasizing cash assistance, she brings a unique perspective to the table. Her ability to navigate challenging country contexts has been a hallmark of her career.
In her current role, Ms. Gaye is poised to lead core practices that enable the future of work in a post-pandemic world. She is committed to supporting the implementation of recommendations related to Mental Health, Workplace Culture, and Anti-Racism. Her strategic vision encompasses promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion while ensuring a healthy workforce and workplace.
Diariétou Gaye’s inclusion in the 5th list of 100 Most Influential African Women in 2023 by Avance Media is a recognition of her outstanding leadership and relentless commitment to advancing global development goals. Her multifaceted roles, from a seasoned economist to a transformative corporate leader, underscore the breadth of her impact. Ms. Gaye’s continued dedication to fostering dialogue, promoting inclusive practices, and shaping the future of global development solidifies her position as a trailblazer in the field.
Photo Credit: CIO East Africa