World Bank Group Timeline
World Bank implements first reorganization
Prior to the 1952 reorganization, operations staff were organized along functional lines, with loan officers working separately from country and technical specialists. The new organization arranges staff geographically; each new operational department maintains operational relationships with a particular geographical group of the World Bank’s member countries. A new Department of Technical Operations is responsible for assessing the economic, financial, and technical merits of proposed projects and for following the progress of approved projects.
Resource Gallery
International Bank for Reconstruction and Development Annual Report, 1952-1953
Document date: Sept. 9, 1953
The report's description of the 1952 reorganization on page 42 includes the new organizational chart and the names of principal officers.
Correspondence from A. F. Johnston and William Howell
July 23, 1952
The correspondence outlines early possibilities for the Bank-wide reorganization relating specifically to the Department of Technical Operations (1069839).
Interview with Harold Larsen, John de Wilde, and Gerald Alter
Interview date: July 21, 1961
The reorganization of the World Bank is discussed on pages 4-16.
Administrative circular -- Description of World Bank reorganization
Sept. 5, 1952
In this administrative circular prepared for World Bank staff, Vice President Robert Garner describes the organizational changes that will go into effect two weeks later (1069839).
Draft timeline of reorganization
July 8, 1952
The draft memorandum, authored by Director of the Administration Department William Howell, includes a timeline for actions and describes the responsibilities of specific individuals and units (1069839).
