Ian Bannon is the Sector Manager of the Fragile States, Conflict and Social Development Unit in the Africa Region of the World Bank. He was the Acting Country Director for Sudan from July 1, 2010 to October 1, 2011. Prior to his current assignment he was Manager of the Conflict Prevention and Reconstruction Unit in the Social Development Department. He has published widely on conflict and development themes, including natural resources, education, social development and gender.