AIIB Grows to 600 with 2024 Cohort of Young Talent Programs

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) recently onboarded its 2024 cohort of Young Talents, bringing its staff count to 600 people. Nineteen of the 22 new staff will work in one of six streams under the Graduate Program-Investment, Finance, Risk Management, Strategy, Corporate, and Environmental and Social-while 3 are young lawyers who will work as legal associates under the Legal Department. The current cohort represents 15 different economies, and with an almost even split between women and men.

The expansion of AIIB's workforce is a direct result of the bank's significant growth. AIIB continues to expand rapidly to include 110 approved Members and has nearly USD55 billion in approved financing for 286 projects. These projects are being implemented across 37 economies and cover various sectors including energy, transport, urban, water, health, digital infrastructure, and more.

As AIIB approaches its 10th year of operations, its focus remains firmly on nurturing a dynamic workforce that can drive innovation and sustainable development. Asma Shaikh, Director General of Human Resources also noted that this involves investing in the development of young professionals. "At AIIB, we are deeply committed to preparing the next generation of infrastructure and finance professionals," she said. "Our Young Talent Programs are designed to mentor and develop these individuals, equipping them with the skills and experiences they need to lead key roles both within AIIB and the broader global development space."

Scott Fitzgerald, Head of Talent Acquisition, highlighted the role of the Young Talent Programs in shaping the Bank's workforce. "In just nine years, AIIB has brought on board a dynamic, youthful talent pool. The Young Talent Programs have significantly reduced our average staff age and infused the Bank with fresh perspectives. Growing talent from within is especially vital for us as a young institution. What sets our programs apart is our genuine commitment to nurturing and developing talent from within, especially for those just beginning their careers."

Unlike many organizations, where meaningful roles are reserved for those who already have extensive experience, Fitzgerald said, "We give staff equal opportunity to join us and immediately engage in impactful work, gaining hands-on experience across key areas of infrastructure and development banking. Due to its diverse portfolio and operational scope, the Bank is in a unique position to offer its staff the opportunity to gain exposure to various scenarios, providing them with the necessary experience to develop technical expertise. This is valuable opportunity for those who are early to the job market."

Senior HR Officer Brian Hipolito, who oversees recruitment for the Young Talent Programs, shared insights on AIIB's unique approach. "AIIB stands out in the way we give young professionals-some as young as 23-the chance to launch their careers in international development through full-time, international staff roles. Most organizations offer internships, consultancies, or limited-growth local roles at best, but we believe young people deserve stability early in their careers, and we provide that here at AIIB."

The success of the Young Talent Programs is evident in the record number of applications. For the 2024 batch, AIIB received over 7,400 applications from 140 different economies, making it the largest applicant pool in the program's history since it was launched in 2022. "We expect even more interest in the future, as these programs offer life-changing opportunities for young professionals eager to make a difference in international development," Hipolito added.

A ceremony was held at AIIB's Sky Garden to commemorate the growth to 600, celebrating both the institution's expansion and the graduation of the inaugural 2022 Young Talent Programs cohort. The event highlighted AIIB's commitment to nurturing young professionals who are poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of infrastructure and development finance.

The 600th staff milestone is not just a celebration of numbers but a testament to AIIB's dedication to building talent and fostering the next generation of leaders. The Young Talent Programs are a vital part of this strategy, providing a platform for early-career professionals to develop and thrive as they contribute to the future of infrastructure and global development.