World Bank Group’s centre in Chennai stands for operational excellence and innovation, says MD Wencai Zhang

World Bank Group’s centre in Chennai stands for operational excellence and innovation, says MD Wencai Zhang

The Global Business Centre of the World Bank Group (WBG) in Chennai stands for operational excellence and innovation, said its Managing Director and Chief Administrative Officer Wencai Zhang.

Mr. Zhang was in Chennai for the reopening of the World Bank Group’s modernised Global Business Centre in Taramani. In 2001, Chennai was chosen to establish the centre by the Group after a rigorous global search, and it was its largest centre outside of the United States headquarters.

The Chennai Global Business Centre now employs over 1,500 staff and contractors as of March 2025, serving 189 member countries in over 130 World Bank offices globally, when compared to its modest beginning with 70 staff.

“There are a lot of factors, including a deep talent pool and robust infrastructure, that led to our decision to set up our Global Business Centre in Chennai,” Mr. Zhang said in an interview.

“Chennai is rich in human resources. Over the years, the State has enjoyed a relatively stable political environment. It has also provided safe and high-quality life,” he noted.

The World Bank also provides a lot of support to the State in infrastructural areas, social sectors, and human capital, among many others. Over the years, both sides have developed trust and very strong cooperation. These are the basic factors that have made us choose Chennai, Mr. Zhang said.

He pointed out that the World Bank has provided financial support to the tune of $4.7 billion for closed projects in the State, while $1 billion worth of projects are under implementation.