In a significant move signaling a new era of legal leadership, the Board of Directors of the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) recently announced the appointment of Dessislava Guetcheva-Cheytanova as the institution’s General Counsel and member of its esteemed Executive Committee. Ms. Guetcheva-Cheytanova’s appointment, effective from September 1, 2024, marks the beginning of a transformative five-year term, succeeding the distinguished Diego Devos upon his retirement from the BIS.
Bringing to the table over two decades of legal expertise, Ms. Guetcheva-Cheytanova is poised to steer the BIS Legal Service with finesse and vision. Her extensive experience in offering legal counsel and leading teams within international organizations underscores her preparedness for this pivotal role. Notably, she currently serves as the Deputy General Counsel of the Bank, a position she has held since March 2020.
Prior to her tenure at the BIS, Ms. Guetcheva-Cheytanova held esteemed roles, including Director and Chief Counsel Corporate at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and contributed significantly to the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe. Her academic prowess is equally impressive, holding Master of Law and Master of International Economic Relations degrees from the University of National and World Economy in Bulgaria, alongside a Master of Law degree from the University of London.
The appointment of Ms. Guetcheva-Cheytanova came at a crucial juncture for the BIS, as it navigates a dynamic global landscape. Her strategic acumen and commitment to excellence are poised to uphold the institution’s legal integrity while fostering innovation and adaptability in its operations.
Acknowledging the remarkable tenure of Mr. Diego Devos, the BIS Board of Directors and General Manager expressed gratitude for his outstanding service spanning over a decade. Mr. Devos, who has served as the General Counsel since 2009, leaves behind a legacy of unwavering dedication and invaluable contributions. His stewardship of the Legal Service during periods of transformation and economic evolution has been instrumental in shaping the BIS’s legal framework and navigating complex global challenges.
As the BIS welcomes Dessislava Guetcheva-Cheytanova to lead its Legal Service, the institution reaffirms its commitment to fostering excellence, integrity, and innovation in its pursuit of global financial stability. Ms. Guetcheva-Cheytanova’s appointment heralds a new chapter in the BIS’s legal landscape, promising a future defined by resilience, collaboration, and legal excellence.
With Ms. Guetcheva-Cheytanova at the helm, the BIS stands poised to navigate the complexities of the global economy with confidence, ensuring that its legal framework remains robust, adaptive, and responsive to emerging challenges and opportunities.
