Meet the Star Economist: Gita Gopinath Quits IMF, Returns to Harvard

Gita Gopinath Bids Farewell to the IMF

Gita Gopinath, the internationally acclaimed economist who rose to become the second-in-command at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), is stepping down. Her resignation, effective at the end of August 2025, marks the end of a transformative era for the global lender. The IMF confirmed she will return to her former academic post at Harvard University, where her career first began to shine.

A Historic Journey Through Crisis

Gopinath made history in 2019 when she became the IMF’s first female Chief Economist. She later broke another glass ceiling in 2022, becoming the First Deputy Managing Director, a post traditionally influenced by the U.S. Treasury. An Indian-born U.S. citizen, she led the IMF through the COVID-19 crisis, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and a period of soaring global inflation.

Her leadership blended academic precision with practical crisis management, making her one of the most respected voices in international finance.

Geeta Gopinath – From Global Stage to the Classroom

The IMF stated that the timing of her departure came as a surprise to many insiders and was initiated by Gopinath herself. In a statement, she called her tenure a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” and thanked both Kristalina Georgieva and former IMF chief Christine Lagarde for their trust.

She said she now looks forward to returning to academia and continuing her research in international finance and macroeconomics, while also mentoring the next generation of economists.

Also Read Trump Releases Martin Luther King Jr. Files: Hidden Truths or Political Distraction?

IMF and the Search for a Successor

IMF Managing Director Georgieva praised Gopinath as an “exceptional intellectual leader” who brought “clarity and rigor” to the Fund’s work during volatile times. Her departure opens the door for the U.S. Treasury to nominate a new deputy, a move with significant political weight in today’s uncertain global economy.

As Gopinath returns to Harvard, she leaves behind a legacy of bold economic vision, groundbreaking leadership, and resilience in the face of global challenges.