The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has appointed Ekaterina Solovova as Associate Director and Head of Montenegro, effective 1 September 2026.
She will succeed Remon Zakaria, who is set to become Head of Armenia, and will oversee the EBRD’s investment operations, policy engagement and reform support in Montenegro.
In her new role, Solovova will work closely with public institutions, private-sector partners and international stakeholders to support Montenegro’s economic development priorities. Her focus will include advancing the green transition, strengthening energy security, boosting private-sector competitiveness and supporting the country’s European Union accession process.
Solovova brings more than 20 years of experience in development finance and investment management. Her career has included senior positions at the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Soros Private Funds Management, Varde Partners and the EBRD.
She first joined the EBRD in 2004 as a banker in the Technology, Media and Telecommunications team before moving into the private equity sector in London, where she specialised in distressed debt and special situations investments across Europe and the United States. Returning to the EBRD in 2012, she went on to hold several leadership roles, including Adviser to the President and Associate Director in the Bank’s Private Equity team.
Since July 2021, Solovova has served as Head of Albania. During her tenure, the EBRD invested approximately €900 million across more than 90 projects, expanding support for renewable energy, tourism, mining, agribusiness and financial services. The Bank also strengthened its role as a key partner in Albania’s EU accession efforts.
Montenegro remains an important market for the EBRD, with priorities centred on sustainable infrastructure, energy transition, private-sector development and policy reform. Solovova’s appointment comes at a significant moment as the country continues to advance its EU membership ambitions and seeks to accelerate investment-driven growth.
The EBRD has invested more than €1 billion in Montenegro to date, supporting projects across infrastructure, energy, finance and the private sector. Solovova is expected to play a key role in shaping the Bank’s next phase of engagement in the country.
