Thomas Abell

Advisor, Digital Technology for Development Unit
, ADB
Profile / Bio: 

Thomas is leading ADB’s Digital Technology for Development Unit, which is tasked with facilitating the effective use of digital technology in ADB programs to improve development impact.  

He has over 20 years of professional experience in digital technology, including software development, systems architecture and technology strategy.  During his 10+ years of experience in international development, he has worked extensively across Asia, Africa and Latin America, working with governments, development organizations, NGOs and corporations.  He has authored several publications on the use of technology in development with leading organizations, including Consultative Group to Assist the Poor, UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Cash Learning Partnership, and Mastercard.   

Prior to ADB, he worked for Accenture Development Partnerships (ADP), leading ADP’s programs in Digital Technology for Development and Financial Inclusion.  He has specific development expertise in financial inclusion, education, and agriculture. Prior to joining Accenture in 2005, he served various management and technical roles in information technology and strategy for large multinationals, including Hewlett Packard, Motorola, and Ford Motor Company.   

He is an American national and holds a Master of Science degree from the Sloan School of Management, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT); a Master of Science from the Department of Materials Science & Engineering, MIT; a Master of Science from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, MIT; and holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the Department of Mechanical Engineering degree from MIT. 

Materials

Title Date Learning Materials Topic
Recording 12 May 2021 Multimedia ICT
Recording 12 May 2021 Multimedia ICT
Where ADB sees opportunities for investment, technical assistance, and partnerships 28 April 2021 Slides ICT
Video: Session 6: Initial Good Practice for Project Frontliners and Closing Remarks by VP Stokes 12 November 2020 Multimedia ADB Administration and Governance
Connectivity Reframed as a Foundational Infrastructure in a Post-COVID Environment 23 September 2020 Slides ICT
Digital Technologies 29 July 2020 Slides ICT
Digitizing Development: Integrating Technology in ADB-supported Projects and Designing Technology Projects 25 October 2019 Slides ADB Administration and Governance, Capacity Development, Finance
Lessons from Silicon Valley Start-Up Environment 09 April 2019 Slides Capacity Development, ICT, Industry and Trade
ADB’s Digital Technology for Development Unit 28 March 2019 Slides ADB Administration and Governance, ICT