Ayat Soliman

Ayat Soliman is the Director of Strategy and Operations for the World Bank Office of the Managing Director of Operations, effective April 3, 2026. In this role, she oversees the day-to-day operations of the MDO office, works closely with Vice Presidents and regional teams across all seven regions of the World Bank to ensure the Bank’s operating model continues to meet the evolving needs of client countries, and leads the coordination and delivery of the Bank's operational strategy and related work programs.

Prior to this, Ms. Soliman served as Director of Strategy and Operations for the Latin America and Caribbean region (2023-2026), where she helped shape and implement the region’s strategic vision and key corporate initiatives. She supported the Vice President in managing day-to day operations and oversaw an active portfolio of $32 billion across 240 projects in 31 countries. Earlier in her career, Ms. Soliman served as the Regional Director for Sustainable Development in Eastern and Southern Africa and the Middle East and North Africa regions, and as Global Director in the Water Global Practice.

Ms. Soliman brings over 30 years of experience working in the international development arena. Prior to joining the World Bank, she worked in the United Nations, private sector and government, where she led the implementation of infrastructure investments and policy programs. Her technical expertise spans water, agriculture, environment, social and urban development, as well as cross-cutting issues such as climate adaptation and resilience and territorial development. She has significant experience supporting fragile and conflict-affected countries, with a strong focus on the role of sustainable resource management in promoting peace and stability. 

Ms. Soliman holds an MSc and BSc in Environmental and Mechanical Engineering from the American University in Cairo.