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Development economist Dr Nazneen Ahmed has been appointed executive director of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), effective September 1, 2026.
Dr Ahmed brings nearly three decades of experience in economic research, policy analysis and development practice in Bangladesh and internationally.
Before joining CPD, she served at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), first as country economist at UNDP Bangladesh for two years and later as a policy adviser at the UNDP Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific in New York for three years.
Prior to her UNDP career, Dr Ahmed spent 25 years at the Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS). She joined BIDS as a research associate in July 1998 and progressed through various research positions before becoming a research director.
Her research and policy interests cover a broad range of macroeconomic and development issues, including international trade, industry and employment, governance, gender equality, social protection and inclusive growth.
She has authored numerous publications, including articles in peer-reviewed international and national journals, book chapters published by international publishers and research reports prepared for international organisations.
Throughout her career, Dr Ahmed has worked with organisations including the World Bank, DFID, UNCTAD, ILO, IFC, European Union, IFPRI and IDB.
Dr Ahmed holds a PhD in Economics from Wageningen University in the Netherlands and a master’s degree in Development Economics from the University of Sussex in the United Kingdom. She completed her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Economics at the University of Dhaka and is also a Chevening Scholar.
Her extensive research experience and long-standing involvement in public policy and international development are expected to support CPD’s efforts to promote evidence-based policymaking and inclusive development in Bangladesh.