EBRD Treasurer Retires: Felix Green Appointed as Successor

After three decades at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), including twenty years leading its treasury operations, Axel van Nederveen has retired. The move marks a significant transition for the multilateral development bank, as it prepares to navigate an evolving global financial landscape. Felix Green, formerly group treasurer at First Abu Dhabi Bank, will succeed van Nederveen, taking up the role on March 23, 2026.

A Three-Decade Tenure at the EBRD

Van Nederveen joined the EBRD in May 1995, initially as a portfolio manager. He steadily rose through the ranks within the Treasury Department, ultimately assuming the position of Treasurer in April 2004. His leadership spanned a period of considerable change for the bank, which was established in 1991 to foster the transition to market economies in Central and Eastern Europe. The EBRD’s mandate has since expanded to include supporting green transitions and infrastructure projects across a wider geographic area, from Morocco to Mongolia. The EBRD website details its current areas of operation and investment priorities.

Prior to his time at the EBRD, van Nederveen honed his financial skills in the private sector, holding positions at ABN AMRO in Amsterdam and Paribas in London, focusing on government bond sales and trading. His MBA from the University of Groningen in the Netherlands provided a strong academic foundation for his career in finance.

Felix Green Steps In

The appointment of Felix Green signals a continuation of the EBRD’s commitment to strong financial management. Green brings extensive experience from First Abu Dhabi Bank, where he served as group treasurer. His expertise will be crucial as the EBRD continues to manage a substantial asset base and navigate complex funding operations. The bank’s treasury function is responsible for asset management, liquidity management, funding, and managing market risks associated with its lending activities. According to the EBRD’s leadership page, the Treasurer holds overall responsibility for these critical areas.

The transition is scheduled for March 23rd, allowing for a handover period to ensure continuity in the bank’s treasury operations. The announcement, initially reported by risk.net, was also highlighted on the EBRD’s official Facebook page, emphasizing a smooth transition.

The EBRD’s Funding Model and Market Role

The EBRD operates with a unique funding model, relying heavily on capital markets to finance its projects. It issues bonds in various currencies and attracts investment from a diverse range of institutional investors. This reliance on market funding makes the role of the Treasurer particularly vital, as they are responsible for maintaining the bank’s creditworthiness and ensuring access to cost-effective financing. The bank’s funding strategy is also influenced by its commitment to sustainable development, with an increasing focus on green bonds and other environmentally-focused financial instruments.

The EBRD’s lending activities play a significant role in supporting economic development in its countries of operation. By providing financing for infrastructure projects, private sector development, and climate change mitigation, the bank aims to promote sustainable and inclusive growth. The Treasurer’s role extends beyond simply managing the bank’s finances. it also involves assessing and mitigating the market risks associated with these lending activities.

Implications for Market Risk Management

The change in leadership at the EBRD’s treasury comes at a time of heightened market volatility and uncertainty. Geopolitical tensions, rising interest rates, and concerns about inflation are all contributing to increased risk in the global financial system. Felix Green will need to leverage his experience to navigate these challenges and ensure that the EBRD’s treasury operations remain resilient.

Van Nederveen’s long tenure provided stability and institutional knowledge. Green’s arrival introduces a fresh perspective, potentially leading to adjustments in the bank’s risk management strategies. The EBRD’s annual reports, available on its website, provide detailed information on its risk exposure and management practices.

What’s Next for the EBRD Treasury

The immediate focus will be on ensuring a seamless transition of leadership. Green will be tasked with familiarizing himself with the EBRD’s operations and building relationships with key stakeholders. Looking ahead, the EBRD is likely to continue to prioritize sustainable finance and climate change mitigation in its lending activities. This will require the treasury to develop innovative funding solutions and manage the associated risks effectively.

The bank’s upcoming project pipeline and funding requirements will be key indicators to watch. The EBRD’s website provides updates on its ongoing projects and planned investments. Monitoring the bank’s bond issuances and credit ratings will offer insights into its financial health and market access.