IMF's Mancini-Griffoli to Lead BIS Innovation Hub from March 2026

Appointment Announcement

Tommaso Mancini-Griffoli, currently serving as Deputy Director at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), is scheduled to assume leadership of the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) Innovation Hub on March 1, 2026. This strategic appointment marks a significant transition in the leadership of one of the most influential financial technology innovation centers in the global central banking community.

Mancini-Griffoli will serve a five-year term in this role and will join the BIS Executive Committee, reflecting the strategic importance of the Innovation Hub within the broader BIS organizational structure. His appointment comes at a critical time when central banks worldwide are accelerating their digital transformation initiatives and exploring innovative solutions for payment systems and financial market infrastructure.

Professional Background and Expertise

At the IMF, Mancini-Griffoli has been responsible for overseeing payments and financial market infrastructure, a portfolio that aligns closely with the core mission of the BIS Innovation Hub. His extensive experience in these areas positions him well to guide the hub's strategic direction in developing and testing innovative financial technologies.

Throughout his tenure at the IMF, Mancini-Griffoli has been instrumental in shaping policy discussions around digital currencies, payment system modernization, and the evolution of financial market infrastructure. His work has focused on helping member countries navigate the complex landscape of financial innovation while maintaining stability and security in their financial systems.

About the BIS Innovation Hub

The BIS Innovation Hub, which Mancini-Griffoli will lead, operates through seven global centers strategically located across different continents. These centers serve as focal points for collaborative innovation projects between the BIS and central banks worldwide. The hub's mission is to identify and develop insights into critical trends in financial technology, acting as a catalyst for innovation in the central banking community.

The Innovation Hub maintains strategic collaborative relationships with major central banks, including the Federal Reserve, enabling it to leverage diverse expertise and resources in pursuing its innovation agenda. The hub's projects span a wide range of areas, including central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), green finance initiatives, cybersecurity solutions, and next-generation payment systems.

Through its global network, the Innovation Hub facilitates knowledge sharing and best practices among central banks, helping to ensure that financial innovation serves the public interest while maintaining the stability and integrity of the global financial system.

Leadership Transition

Mancini-Griffoli will succeed Cecilia Skingsley, who has led the Innovation Hub through a period of significant growth and expansion. During the transition period, Andréa M. Maechler has served as interim head of the hub, ensuring continuity in operations and strategic initiatives.

This leadership transition represents an opportunity for the BIS Innovation Hub to build on its established foundation while bringing fresh perspectives to address emerging challenges in financial technology and central bank innovation. Mancini-Griffoli's background in international financial policy and infrastructure development is expected to enhance the hub's ability to address the evolving needs of the global central banking community.

FAQ

What is the BIS Innovation Hub and what are its main responsibilities?

The BIS Innovation Hub fosters international collaboration on financial technology within central banking. It identifies critical technology trends, develops public goods for the global financial system, and serves as a network focal point for central bank innovation experts.

What position does Mancini-Griffoli hold at the IMF, and what is his professional background?

Mancini-Griffoli serves as Deputy Director of the IMF's Monetary and Capital Markets Department. His professional background encompasses fintech and financial services expertise. He is a co-author of IMF staff discussion notes on fintech and financial services.

What role does the BIS Innovation Hub play in central bank digital currency (CBDC) development?

The BIS Innovation Hub helps central banks develop digital currencies, research technology impacts, and build prototypes. It monitors emerging technologies like blockchain and AI, ensuring alignment with monetary policy and financial stability while supporting CBDC implementation.

What impact will this leadership change have on global fintech innovation?

Mancini-Griffoli's leadership at BIS Innovation Hub will strengthen regulatory frameworks and drive fintech advancement. Enhanced coordination on digital assets, central bank digital currencies, and cross-border payments will accelerate global innovation while ensuring robust risk management and compliance standards across financial institutions worldwide.

How does the BIS Innovation Hub collaborate with central banks worldwide on fintech research?

The BIS Innovation Hub collaborates with central banks through dedicated projects like Dunbar, involving multiple central banks in developing digital currency and international settlement technologies. These partnerships focus on cross-border payment solutions and financial innovation research.