Mr. Ibrahima Cheikh Diong is the inaugural Executive Director of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD). With over 30 years of experience in climate action, finance, and multilateral diplomacy, Mr. Diong brings a unique blend of expertise to ensure equitable assistance for communities on the frontlines of the climate crisis. 

His distinguished career spans public service in Senegal, executive roles in public and private finance, and leadership positions in international organizations such as the World Bank and IFC. Prior to joining FRLD, he served as United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and Director General of the African Risk Capacity (ARC) Group, where he led institutional reforms and expanded disaster risk financing across Africa. His previous roles include Special Representative for ESG matters at BADEA, senior positions at the World Bank Group, Minister and Special Adviser to the President of Senegal, and leadership roles in energy, international cooperation, and aviation. He also held positions as Senior Africa Banker at BNP Paribas and Africa Director at Booz Allen & Hamilton. 

Fluent in English, French, and Mandarin Chinese, Mr. Diong holds a Master’s degree in International Affairs with a specialization in international finance and environmental policy from Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA).