Alexander Poulev

Alexander Poulev is a Bulgarian public official and finance professional with extensive experience in investment banking, project finance, venture capital, and international financial institutions.

He was born on 5 February 1981 in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. He holds a Master’s degree in Finance from the University of Oxford and a Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems and Finance from the University of Maine, USA.

Mr Poulev has held senior roles in leading financial institutions and advisory firms. He spent four years at UniCredit as director of investment banking, six years at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) as principal banker, and worked at Ernst & Young as manager in transaction advisory services. His international professional background also includes experience with Citigroup Global Markets, Brown Brothers Harriman, and General Electric. Throughout his career, he has developed deep expertise in structuring and financing complex transactions, including equity investments, hybrid instruments, senior debt, and syndicated financing. He has managed Bulbank’s start-up company portfolio and served as co-ordinator of the EBRD Venture Capital Programme for the Balkans, supporting innovation, entrepreneurship, and regional business growth.

In public administration, Alexander Poulev has held several senior government positions. He served as deputy minister of transport and communications in 2021 and as minister of innovation and growth in two consecutive caretaker governments between 2022 and 2023. In these roles, he focused on strengthening Bulgaria’s investment environment, supporting business development, and promoting the country as a competitive destination for innovation and industrial growth.

As deputy prime minister and minister of economy, investment and industry, Mr Poulev brings together international financial expertise, institutional experience, and a strong focus on investment-led economic development.