The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has named Shannon Cowlin as its new Country Director for Sri Lanka. She officially took up the role in Colombo today, leading ADB’s Sri Lanka Resident Mission.
In a statement following her appointment, Ms. Cowlin said, “I am honored to be appointed Country Director of ADB’s Sri Lanka Resident Mission.” She added, “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 more than 26 years of professional experience to the position, including 13 years with ADB. Her background covers investment project operations, policy engagement and knowledge work across energy, climate, environment, air quality, public health and the energy–food–water nexus.
Most recently, she served as Country Director of ADB’s Mongolia Resident Mission, a role she has held since 2023, where she was responsible for leading strategy and operations.
Before joining ADB, Ms. Cowlin worked as a manager at the United States (US) National Renewable Energy Laboratory. In that role, she led US–India and South Asia regional energy cooperation initiatives.
A US national, Ms. Cowlin 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 multilateral development bank that supports inclusive, resilient and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. Established in 1966, it is owned by 69 members, 50 of which are from the region.
