At the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), we are committed to more than just financing infrastructure; we are committed to building careers. Recognizing that the future of sustainable development depends on empowering the next generation of international development professionals, we launched the Young Talent Programs to identify, nurture and develop aspiring professionals who are eager to contribute to AIIB’s mission of fostering sustainable infrastructure.
Since its inception in 2022, AIIB’s Graduate Program and Legal Associate Program have attracted exceptional individuals from across the globe. These programs have served as gateways for talented early-career professionals to begin their journeys in international development. To date, 71 young talents have been hired through these programs, representing 30 economies and showcasing AIIB’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. Of these, 58% are women, reflecting our dedication to creating opportunities for promoting gender balance in infrastructure finance and development. In addition, 53% of current talents come from developing economies, and they bring new ideas, fresh perspectives and local networks and expertise. They are a valuable addition to an institution with infrastructure projects in Asia and beyond.
Participants in the Young Talent Programs engage in rotational assignments, cross-departmental collaborations and mentoring activities that equip them with the skills, knowledge and networks needed to thrive in their careers.
Today, we celebrate the journeys of three outstanding alumni who have succeeded and been promoted within the Bank: Jehee Um, Bjorn Torsteinsrud and Goktug Ersoy.
Jehee Um: Building a Strategy for Sustainable and Clean Infrastructure
from Graduate Program Analyst to Strategy and Policy Associate
For Jehee, the Graduate Program was a life-changing opportunity to expand her horizons and grow as a professional. Joining the 2022 inaugural batch, Jehee embraced the program’s rotational structure, which allowed her to contribute to multiple departments and understand AIIB’s operations from different perspectives. “The Graduate Program has been instrumental in shaping my professional development,” Jehee reflects. “It was my first experience at a multilateral development bank, and it provided me with the tools and opportunities to actively contribute to AIIB’s strategic initiatives.”
Jehee highlights the strong sense of community she built with her batch as one of the program’s most rewarding aspects. “Having joined the Bank together and navigating two years as a team, we developed friendships and professional networks that will last a lifetime,” she shares.
Her passion and performance did not go unnoticed. Months after completing the program, Jehee was promoted to Strategy and Policy Associate, where she now actively participates on initiatives that shape the Bank’s long-term strategic direction. To young professionals considering applying to the program, Jehee offers simple but powerful advice: “Just apply. Taking the first step is often the hardest, but it’s the key to unlocking countless opportunities.”
Bjorn Torsteinsrud: Developing Legal Expertise with a Global Reach
from Legal Associate to Counsel
When Bjorn joined AIIB’s inaugural Legal Associate Program in 2021, he saw it as a unique opportunity to merge his legal expertise with his passion for global development. He says the program exceeded his expectations: “The Legal Associate Program gave me the chance to work on a wide range of infrastructure projects across different countries and sectors, both in Asia and globally.”
What stood out for Bjorn was the trust that management placed in him from the very beginning. “From day one, I was given full responsibility over a variety of projects,” he recalls. This trust not only accelerated his professional growth but also deepened his confidence in navigating complex legal matters. Today, as a Counsel in the Legal Department, Bjorn continues to contribute to transformative infrastructure projects, leveraging the skills and experiences he gained during the program.
For aspiring legal professionals, Bjorn’s advice is clear: “You don’t need a banking or finance background to succeed here. AIIB’s Legal Department values diverse experiences and perspectives. What matters most is your willingness to learn and contribute.”
Goktug Ersoy: Navigating High-Stakes Projects Across Asia
from Legal Associate to Counsel
For Goktug, the Legal Associate Program offered him a platform to grow in ways he did not imagine. “The program allowed me to take part in high-stakes projects across Asia and beyond, working with colleagues from different departments,” he shares. The collaborative and multidisciplinary environment at AIIB enriched his experience, enabling him to broaden his expertise and contribute to impactful projects.
What Goktug values most about the program is the opportunity to work with professionals from diverse backgrounds. “Collaborating with investment professionals and subject-matter experts expanded my professional network and helped me hone my skills,” he explains.
Now a Counsel in the Legal Department, Goktug applies the lessons learned during his time as a Legal Associate to tackle complex challenges and contribute to AIIB’s mission. His advice to future applicants? “Approach the program with a growth mindset and be ready to challenge yourself. The resources and opportunities are immense, but it’s up to you to make the most of them.”
Investing in Talent
Asma Shaikh, Acting Vice President and Chief Administration Officer and Director General of Human Resources, emphasized the transformative impact of the Young Talent Programs. “Our programs are designed to attract and nurture high-potential individuals, equipping them with the tools they need to excel in their careers and contribute to AIIB’s mission,” she says. “The success of our young professionals is a testament to the potential these programs unlock, not just for individuals but for the Bank and its mission to foster sustainable development.”
Asma highlights the programs’ focus on diversity and inclusion as a key factor in their success. “With 71 young talents from 30 economies and with 58% of them being women, our programs reflect our commitment to creating an environment that fosters innovation through diverse perspectives.”
AIIB’s Young Talent Programs are not just about advancing careers—they are about building a global community of development professionals who will shape the future of sustainable infrastructure. Are you ready to take the leap and shape the future with AIIB? Take the first step today by applying to the 2025 Graduate Program and Legal Associate Program, open for applications until February 16, 2025.
To learn more, join one or more of our Virtual Events on February 6-7 for insights about the program, tips on the application process and to hear from current participants about their experiences firsthand.
