3rd June 2025, Kathmandu
Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has reassigned the roles of four of its executive directors. Governor Dr. Biswo Nath Poudel implemented the reshuffle to improve departmental leadership and operational efficiency. These changes took effect immediately and reflect the bank’s ongoing efforts to adapt to emerging economic and technological challenges.
NRB Executive Director Reshuffle
Focus On Supervision: Dirgha Bahadur Rawal Takes Charge
Dirgha Bahadur Rawal is now the new head of the Bank Supervision Department. His appointment is significant. This department plays a key role in regulating and monitoring banks and financial institutions throughout Nepal.
Rawal was promoted to executive director just a few days ago. Until recently, he worked as a director in the Currency Management Department. His promotion and transfer to the supervision role show the Governor’s trust in his capability and experience.
This move also comes at a time when the banking sector is under pressure to meet stricter regulatory standards. Rawal is expected to bring a balanced, practical approach to financial oversight.
Ramu Poudel To Lead Currency Management
Ramu Poudel, who previously headed the Bank Supervision Department and served as the official spokesperson for NRB, has been reassigned to lead the Currency Management Department. This department is responsible for the printing, distribution, and supply of Nepali currency.
With years of experience in banking regulation and policy communication, Poudel brings strong insight into the operational aspects of monetary systems. His new role will include managing cash flow, ensuring efficient currency circulation, and supporting inflation control efforts.
His move to currency management comes as Nepal faces increasing demand for smooth cash handling and financial stability. His leadership will be key in addressing those needs.
Pradeep Raj Poudel, Head Of IT Department
In another shift, Executive Director Pradeep Raj Poudel, who previously led the Currency Management Department, has been placed in charge of the Information Technology Department.
This change underscores the importance NRB is placing on digital systems, cybersecurity, and modernization. The IT Department is responsible for the digital infrastructure of the central bank and plays a critical role in securing financial data.
Pradeep Raj Poudel’s experience in monetary systems will help him oversee the bank’s ongoing digital transformation. His leadership is expected to improve the bank’s readiness for fintech developments, digital banking, and e-governance models.
Continuity And Realignment
Although the responsibilities have changed, all directors remain within the bank’s core structure. This realignment supports continuity while injecting new energy into each department.
Governor Dr. Poudel made these changes based on each executive director’s background, strengths, and departmental needs. The shift is also seen as part of a broader move to align leadership with NRB’s current priorities—supervision, digital transformation, and currency stability.
Background Of The Key Figures
Dirgha Bahadur Rawal: Recently promoted to Executive Director. Formerly Director of the Currency Management Department. Now heads the Bank Supervision Department.
Ramu Poudel: Former Head of Bank Supervision and Spokesperson of NRB. Now leads the Currency Management Department.
Pradeep Raj Poudel: Previously headed the Currency Management Department. Now in charge of the Information Technology Department.
All three have decades of service in the central banking sector. Their appointments reflect their diverse expertise and the bank’s need for capable leaders in technical departments.
Why This Matters
Nepal Rastra Bank is the central authority responsible for monetary policy, currency circulation, and the regulation of the financial sector. As Nepal’s financial landscape evolves, the roles of its senior officers become even more critical.
The Bank Supervision Department ensures that financial institutions comply with regulations and operate securely. The Currency Management Department oversees cash flow and currency printing. The IT Department manages the bank’s digital systems and cybersecurity.
Shuffling leadership across these areas is not just an internal move. It has direct implications for how well the financial system responds to national challenges—from inflation to digital fraud to liquidity issues.
Governor Poudel’s Strategic Vision
Dr. Biswo Nath Poudel, appointed as Governor in 2024, has emphasized institutional reforms and modernization. Since taking office, he has prioritized transparency, data-driven policy, and collaborative leadership.
This reshuffle shows that he is actively making decisions to position capable people in the right roles. It also hints at his commitment to adapting quickly to changes in banking, especially in supervision and technology.
Conclusion
Nepal Rastra Bank’s reshuffling of four executive directors signals a strategic move toward greater efficiency, innovation, and stability. With new leadership in supervision, currency management, and technology, the central bank is better positioned to address the demands of Nepal’s growing and digitizing economy.
These leadership changes aim to create momentum inside the institution, ensuring that the central bank stays responsive, proactive, and accountable.
For more: NRB Executive Director Reshuffle