Gita Gopinath: Harvard's Gain After Leaving IMF

Gita Gopinath, the Indian-American economist who became the first deputy managing director at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), is set to rejoin Harvard University as a professor of economics. Gopinath, who was the first female chief economist at IMF, will return to academia after a distinguished seven-year tenure at the fund.

During her time at the IMF, Gopinath played a critical role, providing analytical rigor paired with practical policy advice during a period of unprecedented global challenges. Her efforts were pivotal during the COVID-19 pandemic, where she ensured the World Economic Outlook maintained its status as the foremost report on global economy, and she co-authored a globally significant 'Pandemic Plan'.

IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva lauded Gopinath as an exceptional intellectual leader and an outstanding colleague. As she transitions back to Harvard, Gopinath aims to continue her work in advancing international finance and macroeconomics, focusing on addressing global challenges and training future economists.

(With inputs from agencies.)