Anna Paulson to Lead Philadelphia Fed from July 2025

2025-04-18 economy

Philadelphia, Friday, 18 April 2025.
Anna Paulson, a top economist from the Chicago Fed, will become the president and CEO of the Philadelphia Fed, succeeding Patrick Harker, and will join the FOMC in 2026.

Anna Paulson’s Appointment and Responsibilities

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia has officially appointed Anna Paulson as its new president and CEO, effective July 1, 2025. Paulson, previously the executive vice president and director of research at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, will replace outgoing president Patrick Harker, who will retire on June 30, 2025, after a ten-year tenure [1][2]. Paulson’s appointment aligns with the Federal Reserve System’s broader goals to stabilize and grow the US economy by leveraging her extensive expertise in financial stability and monetary policy [1][3].

Paulson’s Background and Vision

Anna Paulson brings over 20 years of experience to the role, having served in multiple capacities at the Chicago Fed since 2001. Her work has centered around financial markets and the insurance industry’s stability, paving the way for her leadership at the Philadelphia Fed. She will lead the bank’s efforts to ensure economic stability and efficiency across the Third Federal Reserve District, which encompasses eastern and central Pennsylvania, Delaware, and southern New Jersey [2][4]. Paulson’s published research in prestigious journals underscores her deep commitment to understanding complex economic dynamics and contributing to sound monetary policy [4][5].

Economic Implications and Challenges

Paulson’s leadership transition is anticipated to impact the broader economy, particularly through her role in the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) starting in 2026, when she will be eligible to vote on pivotal decisions such as interest rate adjustments. These decisions come at an influential time as the Federal Reserve aims to navigate economic challenges posed by previous trade policies and their inflationary effects [6][7]. Her predecessor, Harker, known for a pragmatic policy approach, has left a unique legacy of moderation that Paulson is expected to build upon as she addresses the dual mandate of price stability and maximum employment [6][8].

Anticipated Shift in Leadership Focus

In assuming her new role, Paulson has stated her intent to engage deeply with the communities in the Third District, focusing on fostering the stability, integrity, and efficiency of the nation’s monetary, financial, and payment systems[1][5]. Her appointment speaks to the Federal Reserve’s enduring commitment to drawing on substantial market expertise among its leaders. Current regional leaders, such as those in Cleveland and St. Louis, also bring significant market experience to their roles [6][4]. The forthcoming vote in the FOMC will coincide with a critical evaluation of the central bank’s strategies, including responses to White House trade policies and evolving economic conditions [6][7].

Sources

Federal Reserve Anna Paulson