Jerome Powell

Jerome Hayden Powell (born February 4, 1953) is an American economist, banker, and public official who became the 16th Chair of the Federal Reserve in February 2018, appointed by President Donald Trump and later renominated by President Joe Biden. Born and raised in North Carolina, Powell attended Princeton University and Georgetown University Law School before building a career in finance and public service. Prior to leading the Federal Reserve, Powell worked as an investment banker at Dillon, Read & Co. and served in various government roles, including as Governor of the Federal Reserve Board from 2012 to 2018. As Chair of the Federal Reserve, Powell has navigated unprecedented economic challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, inflation surges, and banking sector instability. His monetary policy decisions—regarding interest rates, quantitative easing, and financial regulation—have profound implications for employment, inflation, and economic stability worldwide. Powell is known for his measured approach to communications and his efforts to make Federal Reserve policy more transparent to the public. His leadership style emphasizes data-driven decision-making and careful coordination with other central banks globally.