The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has announced the appointment of Shannon Cowlin as the new Country Director for Sri Lanka. Ms. Cowlin commenced her role today at the ADB’s Sri Lanka Resident Mission in Colombo.
In her statement, Ms. Cowlin expressed her enthusiasm for the position, saying, “I am honored to be appointed Country Director of ADB’s Sri Lanka Resident Mission. For many years, ADB has been a trusted partner of Sri Lanka, supporting the country through significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent economic crisis. As Sri Lanka continues on its path to recovery, ADB remains firmly committed to assisting the nation in rebuilding and strengthening its resilience, including addressing the impacts and damage caused by Cyclone Ditwah. Looking ahead, we will continue to work closely with the Government, development partners, and communities to promote sustainable growth and create new opportunities.”
Ms. Cowlin brings over 26 years of professional experience, with 13 years dedicated to ADB. Her expertise includes investment project operations, policy engagement, and knowledge work in various fields such as energy, climate, the environment, air quality, public health, and the energy–food–water nexus. Prior to her current role, she served as the Country Director of ADB’s Mongolia Resident Mission, where she led strategy and operations since 2023.
Before joining ADB, Ms. Cowlin worked as a manager at the United States National Renewable Energy Laboratory, focusing on US–India and South Asia regional energy cooperation initiatives. A US national, she holds a master’s degree in environmental health sciences and a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering sciences from the University of California, Berkeley.
ADB is a prominent multilateral development bank committed to fostering inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. In collaboration with its members and partners, ADB addresses complex challenges by leveraging innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and protect the environment. Established in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members, including 50 from the region.
