The Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Kristalina Georgieva, has announced plans to appoint Daniel Katz, the current Chief of Staff to U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent as the Fund’s First Deputy Managing Director, effective October 6, 2025.
This is subject to approval by the IMF’s Executive Board.
Daniel Katz
Daniel Katz is currently the principal advisor to the Secretary on a wide range of domestic and international matters. He has been involved in the US’ negotiations with Ukraine and China. He has also served as a Senior Advisor to the Treasury Under Secretary for International Affairs. Additionally, he worked as a Counsellor to the Assistant Secretary for International Markets, and a policy advisor in the Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence.
He has previously worked as an investment banker at Goldman Sachs. Additionally, Katz has served as an advisor to the Commander of U.S. forces in Kabul, Afghanistan.
What The IMF said
The IMF Managing Director, Kristalina Georgieva, stated. “Dan is known to his colleagues for his passion for policy work, particularly the intersection of economic policy and international relations. He is highly respected for his solution-oriented approach, collaborative leadership style, and willingness to bring fresh perspectives to difficult issues.
“Dan is a strong believer in the important role of the Fund. He helps our member countries ensure economic and financial stability during significant global economic transformations. His ability to build relationships with a wide range of interlocutors will be an important asset to the Fund.” She concluded.
If his appointment is ratified, he would take over from Gita Gopinath, who stepped down last month and plans to return to Harvard University. Accepting his nomination for the position Katz said “I am deeply honored to be proposed for this position at the IMF. The IMF plays an indispensable role at the heart of the international monetary system. I very much look forward to deepening my engagement with the Fund, its staff and the membership.”
