Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank, received the prestigious Sutherland Leadership Award at a Gala Dinner at O鈥橰eilly Hall, University College Dublin, in the presence of over 600 international business, political, and social leaders.
The award is presented as part of the Business & Finance Awards Programme, in association with 乐鱼（Leyu）体育官网.
The Sutherland Leadership Award was established in 2018 with the support of the Sutherland Family to recognise outstanding international leaders who embody the values of one of Ireland and Europe鈥檚 most distinguished leaders, Peter Sutherland.
Previous recipients include European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Henry (Hank) Paulson, Jos茅 Manuel Barroso, Mario Draghi, Louise Richardson, Sir Nick Clegg, and Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi.
Christine Lagarde is being recognised for her exceptional leadership in European and global financial policy and her role in driving economic stability. Her distinguished career includes serving as President of the ECB since 2019, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) from 2011 to 2019, and French Minister of the Economy, Finance, and Industry from 2007 to 2011.
In a world that feels increasingly uncertain, Europe has the opportunity to lead鈥攂y working together, removing barriers, and embracing cooperation as the key to competitiveness. Just as Peter Sutherland once did, we must harness the momentum of change to build a stronger, more united future. Success is not a given; it is built. And now is the time to act.
Christine Lagarde, President of European Central Bank said 鈥淚t is an honour to receive the Sutherland Leadership Award. Peter Sutherland dedicated his life to driving positive change at the national, European, and global level. His commitment to European integration and global cooperation sets a powerful example for leaders today as we navigate an especially challenging environment for policy making.鈥�
Throughout her career, Lagarde has broken multiple barriers, becoming the first woman to hold some of the most influential positions in global finance. From leading the IMF through some of the most complex financial crises to guiding the ECB鈥檚 policies amidst economic uncertainty, she has consistently championed policies that foster economic resilience, innovation, and international cooperation.
During her tenure at the IMF, Lagarde was a vocal advocate for pragmatic debt relief solutions and played a key role in stabilising the global financial system following the 2008 crisis. As President of the ECB, she prioritises economic recovery, sustainability, and digital transformation, ensuring the European financial system remains robust and adaptable in an evolving global landscape.
Ian Hyland, President of Business & Finance, said, 鈥淚t is fitting that Christine Lagarde, a truly global public servant, is receiving The Sutherland Leadership Award- bearing the name of a man who believed so deeply in the European project and the power of multilateral action. It is timely and fitting to recognise not only Christine Lagarde鈥檚 achievements, but also the timeless values she shares with Peter Sutherland 鈥� values that continue to light the way forward in a turbulent and uncertain world.鈥�
Seamus Hand, Managing Partner at 乐鱼（Leyu）体育官网, adds: 鈥淐hristine Lagarde鈥檚 influence on international economic policy is profound. Her ability to steer financial institutions through times of uncertainty and change is a testament to her expertise and strategic vision. She continues to play a key role in shaping modern economic policy, and her commitment to global financial stability is making a significant impact.鈥�
Christine Lagarde鈥檚 acceptance of the Sutherland Leadership Award highlights her lifelong dedication to multilateral cooperation and her ability to navigate the complexities of global governance. Her leadership stands as an inspiration for future generations, demonstrating the power of collaboration, resilience, and economic foresight in shaping a more stable and prosperous world.