IMF Chief Kristalina Georgieva on AI, Ukraine, Russia and the Next Global Shock

International Monetary Fund Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva has spent the past six years navigating some of the biggest challenges facing the global economy — from the Covid-19 pandemic and Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine to the rapid emergence of artificial intelligence. In this episode of Leaders, Francine Lacqua sits down with Georgieva to discuss what it takes to lead an institution representing 191 countries, how the IMF approaches economic crises and why trust is essential when governments are asked to make difficult reforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In next week's episode, host Francine Lacqua speaks with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva. Here's a preview of that conversation where Georgieva reflects on the difficult balance between economic reform and public trust, why protecting the most vulnerable is essential during crises, and how leaders can build a shared sense of sacrifice and responsibility in turbulent times.Be sure to subscribe to catch the full episode. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rolls-Royce’s turnaround made Tufan Erginbilgiç one of the most closely watched CEOs in Europe. In this episode of Leaders, he tells Francine Lacqua how he used data, discipline and direct communication to change the trajectory of the company — and what other leaders can learn about strategy, culture and long-term growth.Watch the interview:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLe4PRejZgr0PAxeoWOBGj6M7GXhXQmdn6 Check out more Leaders interviews: http://bloomberg.com/leaderswithlacquaRead more on management and work: https://www.bloomberg.com/management-workSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In next week's episode, host Francine Lacqua speaks with Rolls-Royce CEO Tufan Erginbilgiç. Here's a preview of that conversation, in which he reflects on the responsibility of restoring one of Britain’s most important industrial brands, arguing that Rolls-Royce’s turnaround shows other UK companies the importance of fixing broken business models, rejecting mediocrity and empowering employees with a clear sense of purpose.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it take to lead through a near-disaster and turn it into a $14 billion win? In this episode, Blackstone President and Chief Operating Officer Jon Gray shares lessons from the financial crisis, revealing why staying calm, backing the right businesses and building trust can make or break a leader. He also opens up about shaping culture, retaining top talent and leading with humanity—offering a rare inside look at how one of the world’s biggest investment firms navigates uncertainty.Watch the interview: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLe4PRejZgr0PAxeoWOBGj6M7GXhXQmdn6Read more on management and work: https://www.bloomberg.com/management-workSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In next week's episode, host Francine Lacqua speaks with Jon Gray, president and chief operating officer of Blackstone Group. Here's a preview of that conversation, in which he talks about leading Blackstone's leveraged buyout of Hilton Hotels, which after a difficult road became the most profitable private equity real estate deal ever.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Francine Lacqua sits down with Emma Grede—the power behind Good American and a founding partner of Skims—to unpack what it really takes to build a billion-dollar brand. Grede goes beyond the headlines, revealing the chaos behind her $1 million launch day and the mindset that helped her push through challenges. From "radical honesty" in leadership to bold views on work, ambition and success, she reveals the principles that have shaped her rise—and why she’s now stepping into the spotlight to help others do the same.Check out more interviews: http://bloomberg.com/leaderswithlacquaRead more on management and work: https://www.bloomberg.com/management-workSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In next week's episode, host Francine Lacqua speaks with Emma Grede, chief executive and co-founder of Good American and founding partner of loungewear and shapewear brand Skims. Here's a preview of that conversation where she shares the realities behind early success, why hiring adaptable, flexible thinkers matters more than rigid experience, and how the people you need evolve as a company grows.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shell Chief Executive Officer Wael Sawan joins Francine Lacqua to discuss the oil major's controversial strategy around the energy transition, and fostering a culture that shifts from “all-knowing” to “all-learning.” He reflects on navigating volatility in the global energy system, emphasizing disciplined decision-making and focusing on what leaders can influence going forward. This interview was recorded on Dec. 11, 2025See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In next week's episode, host Francine Lacqua speaks with Wael Sawan, chief executive of oil giant Shell. Here's a preview of that conversation where he shares his outlook for global energy demand.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.