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 also come from developing economies, and they bring a lot to the Bank’s programs with their 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 to 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 Um, 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 in 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 Torsteinsrud 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. The program exceeded his expectations, according to Bjorn. “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