Kevin Kellems, Director of Strategy in External Affairs and Senior Advisor

Contacts:

In Washington, DC: Amy Stilwell (202)458-4906

astilwell@worldbank.org

  Geetanjali Chopra (202) 473-0243

gchopra@worldbank.org

Washington, DC, May 7, 2007 - Mr. Marwan Muasher, Senior Vice President, External Affairs announced today that Kevin Kellems, Director of Strategy in External Affairs and Senior Advisor has informed him of his intention to resign from service in the World Bank group, effective next week.

"Kevin Kellems, Director of Strategy in External Affairs and Senior Adviser, has informed me of his intention to resign from service in the World Bank group, effective next week.

Over the past two years, Kevin has served as senior advisor, Director of Strategy, and acting Vice President of External Affairs, Communications and United Nations Affairs, as well as Acting Director of International Affairs, EXT.

Kevin has had two decades in public service, strategic planning and policy communications.  Kevin holds degrees from Georgetown University’s graduate School of Foreign Service and Ohio State University’s undergraduate School of Journalism. 

Throughout his tenure at the World Bank, Kevin has been a strong advocate for a free press in the developing world, and for the importance of access to information, for people working to escape poverty.

With his assistance, the External Affairs Vice Presidency sharpened its focus on actions and results – through the professionalization of its core communications, issues management  and representation functions.  He also helped mobilize support for the multi-lateral debt relief initiative and worked to underscore the development stakes in international trade.

Kevin is known among his colleagues for his emphasis on team-building and mentoring, and for his work ethic and grace under pressure.  My colleagues and I enjoyed working with him and will miss him.”

Marwan Muasher.