Back to Christine Lagarde
    Christine Lagarde

    Christine Lagarde

    Awards & Honours

    3

    Awards Won

    3

    Honours

    3

    Rankings

    2

    Covers

    3

    Records

    Christine Lagarde stands as a unique figure in modern economic history, having shattered glass ceilings at every turn. She is the only person to have served as the head of both the IMF and the ECB, and the first woman to lead either institution. Her ranking as the second most powerful woman in the world by Forbes for multiple consecutive years underscores her immense influence. Beyond titles, her legacy includes steering France through the 2008 financial crisis and guiding the global economy through the post-pandemic recovery. Her recognition extends to honorary degrees from top universities like Harvard and Oxford, celebrating her contributions to law and economics.

    Christine Lagarde receiving an award

    Awards

    Honours & Distinctions

    Legion of Honour

    French Government·2007

    Awarded for her service as Minister of the Economy, Finance, and Industry.

    Honorary Doctorate

    Harvard University·2012

    Recognized for her contributions to global economics and leadership.

    Honorary Doctorate

    University of Oxford·2013

    Awarded for her distinguished career in law and public service.

    Rankings & Lists

    #2

    World's Most Powerful Women

    Forbes·2020
    #2

    World's Most Powerful Women

    Forbes·2022
    #1

    Time 100 Most Influential People

    Time Magazine·2012

    Magazine Covers

    Forbes

    October 2020

    Most Powerful Women List Cover

    Time

    April 2012

    One of the 100 Most Influential People

    Records & Feats

    First Woman to Lead the IMF

    Historic First·2011

    Became the 11th Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund in 2011, breaking a century-long male dominance.

    First Woman to Lead the ECB

    Historic First·2019

    Appointed President of the European Central Bank in 2019, becoming the first woman to hold the position.

    Best Finance Minister in Eurozone

    Career Milestone·2009

    Ranked as the best finance minister in the Eurozone by the Financial Times during the 2008 crisis.