WASHINGTON, July 30, 2026 — The World Bank Group's Boards of Executive Directors have launched the recruitment process for a Director General to lead the newly established Independent Accountability Mechanism (IAM).

A global executive search firm has been retained to ensure a broad and competitive pool of candidates. An independent external expert will also advise the Selection Committee in the recruitment process.

Prior to reaching a final decision, the Selection Committee–with support from the search firm—will have confidential consultations with select stakeholders, including civil society organizations and clients.

The Boards approved the integration of the World Bank Inspection Panel, the World Bank Dispute Resolution Service, and the IFC/MIGA Compliance Advisor Ombudsman into a single body. The consolidation is designed to make the accountability process simpler and clearer for complainants to navigate.

The IAM will operate independently of World Bank Group management, reporting directly to the Boards under the oversight of the Committee on Development Effectiveness (CODE), and will be led by the Director General. The decision reflects a broader effort to reduce fragmentation and strengthen coherence across World Bank Group operations.

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