Formerly Regional Manager for IFC, the World Bank Group’s private-sector arm, she led investments and advisory work across Central and Eastern Europe and now brings that governance and ESG expertise to the boards of leading companies.

As President of the Castel Salbek Association, she is involved in rural regeneration while safeguarding Banat’s intangible heritage—recipes, traditions, and local producers. Under her guidance, Castel Salbek is becoming a living meeting place for opera, well-being and visual arts through festivals, masterclasses, and partnerships with cultural institutions.

Fluent in the languages of business, policy, and culture, she connects farmers, artisans, and hospitality entrepreneurs with investors, philanthropies, and public authorities—turning heritage into sustainable opportunity. By uniting economic development, conservation, and the creative industries, she contributes to highlight Banat’s identity to international audiences and anchor it in resilient value chains.

Her cross-sector leadership and commitment to the region make Ana Maria Mihăescu a compelling Ambassador for Banat’s European Region of Gastronomy journey.