James D. Wolfensohn, naturalized American citizen, commences 10–year term as president of the World Bank. Previously head of his own investment firm, James D. Wolfensohn, Inc.
A former senior partner at Solomon Brothers, Wolfensohn is a graduate of Harvard Business School.
Born in Sydney, Australia (December, 1933) to Jewish parents who had immigrated from England during the Great Depression. Father of three grown children, Sara, Naomi and Adam, and two grandsons Benjamin and Mica.
A friend of cellist Jacqueline du Pré, Wolfensohn began cello studies with her when he was 41. He is now accomplished in the field. Wolfensohn is chairman of Carnegie Hall in Manhattan and of the JFK Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC.
The balance of his resume is lengthy.