Q&A with new IFFIm Board Chair Georgina Baker
Q&A with new IFFIm Board Chair Georgina Baker
20 March 2026
IFFIm Board Chair Georgina Baker
Ms Baker joined the IFFIm board on 1 January 2026 as its new Chair as outgoing Chair Ken Lay remains on the board as a Director through 2026. We asked her about her experiences and her perspective on her new role.
Q: Can you explain how you were able to bring institutional investors into emerging markets projects – and how can you apply this experience to IFFIm?
A: Institutional investors often have a limited risk appetite for emerging market projects as the local context can be hard to understand unless you have presence in country. By using innovative structuring and by blending different financial instruments to get institutional investors the return they are looking for, it is possible to channel longterm finance into complex projects in difficult markets. Understanding the risk tolerance of potential partners is key.
Q: Are there any projects that you are particularly proud of?
A: At IFC I was responsible for creating a trade finance programme to support risk sharing of individual trade transactions in emerging markets. I travelled across Africa to introduce the programme, which has assisted in over US$ 150 billion in trade finance since inception, with zero calls. The impact and value of this programme is evident from its use by emerging market banks across the globe.
Q: What are some of the challenges that emerging markets are facing? Can IFFIm or Gavi learn from these challenges?
A: A significant challenge that emerging markets face is the limited understanding of the local context. Every situation is different. The only long-term solution is boots on the ground. With IFFIm’s support, Gavi implements its programmes through local partners who deeply understand local needs and can create relevant solutions.
“With IFFIm’s support, Gavi implements its programmes through local partners who deeply understand local needs and can create relevant solutions.”
Q: What drew you/inspired you to take on the role of IFFIm Board Chair? What do you hope to bring to IFFIm during your tenure?
A: I have spent the last 30 years working in development finance where the first question to be answered when analysing an investment opportunity was – what impact will be achieved. Development impact was at the core of everything I worked on, but in all that time I never worked in the health sector. I’m really enjoying learning something new and contributing to Gavi’s mission to save children’s lives.
Q: There is a new generation of female leadership at IFFIm and Gavi. How do you think your perspective can contribute to Gavi’s mission?
A: I can say that I have long been a firm believer in initiatives to bring women onto corporate boards to encourage diversity of thinking and perspectives. For four years I was on the board of a microfinance company in India where every member of the management team was male. I saw how much it meant to the female employees when they could see a woman in a significant role. Sania Nishtar, (Gavi CEO) is transforming Gavi and putting countries first, and I look forward to engaging with her in my new role.
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