Laura Alfaro Appointed as Chief Economist and Economic Counselor at the Inter-American Development Bank

The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has announced the appointment of Laura Alfaro as its new Chief Economist and Economic Counselor, marking a significant step in the bank's efforts to enhance its research capabilities and influence in Latin America and the Caribbean. Alfaro's extensive background in economic research and public policy, particularly in the region, positions her as a pivotal figure in the IDB's mission to tackle pressing issues such as productivity, competitiveness, and inequality.

Alfaro's role is critical as the IDB enters the implementation phase of its IDBImpact+ vision, which aims to integrate economic analysis more deeply into the bank's operations, policy-making, and strategic planning. Her expertise is expected to bolster the bank's ability to generate actionable insights that can drive sustainable and inclusive development across the region. IDB President Ilan Goldfajn highlighted the importance of Alfaro's appointment, noting that research and knowledge are central to the bank's strategy to influence public debate and align its operations with the region's priorities.

Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Alfaro emphasized the transformative potential of knowledge when applied to real-world challenges. She pointed to the urgent need for innovative solutions and collaborative efforts to translate data into decisions that can improve the lives of people in Latin America and the Caribbean. Alfaro's previous experience as a professor at Harvard Business School and as Minister of National Planning and Economic Policy in Costa Rica equips her with a unique blend of academic rigor and practical policy experience.

This appointment is a clear signal of the IDB's commitment to leveraging top-tier talent to address the complex economic and social challenges facing the region. For human resources professionals and business leaders, Alfaro's leadership at the IDB could herald new opportunities for collaboration and innovation in economic policy and development strategies. Her work is likely to have far-reaching implications for how businesses and governments approach issues like technology adoption, financial inclusion, and resilience in the face of economic and environmental shocks.