Kanda, 59, currently serves as Special Advisor to Japan’s prime minister and minister of finance. He will assume office on Feb. 24, 2025, succeeding Masatsugu Asakawa, who will leave office on Feb. 23, 2025.
“Mr. Kanda’s extensive experience in international finance and proven leadership in multilateral settings will serve ADB well in navigating complex global economic challenges and fostering international cooperation,” said Chair of the ADB Board of Governors and Governor of the Bank of Italy Fabio Panetta.
Kanda brings to the ADB nearly four decades of experience in international finance, policy-making, and multilateral cooperation.
His career highlights include leadership roles such as vice-Minister of finance for international affairs, where he oversaw Japan's record-breaking contribution of over $1 billion to the Asian Development Fund's 13th replenishment.
Kanda has been actively involved in G7 and G20 forums, addressing critical global issues such as multilateral development bank reforms, debt sustainability, and pandemic preparedness.
As chair of the OECD Corporate Governance Committee since 2016, he played a pivotal role in updating the G20/OECD Principles of Corporate Governance in 2023.
An alumnus of the University of Tokyo (Bachelor of Laws, 1987) and Oxford University (Master of Philosophy in Economics, 1991), Kanda is also recognized for his contributions to education and science policy.
Under his leadership, ADB aims to strengthen its mission of fostering a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while continuing efforts to eradicate extreme poverty across its 69-member nations.
Outgoing president Masatsugu Asakawa previously announced his intention to step down, stating that it is time for “a new leadership to bring fresh perspectives and renewed energy to the institution’s mission.”
