Jane Fraser
Pioneering Leadership in the World of Banking
Jane Fraser, a British-American banking executive, has carved her name into the annals of finance as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Citigroup.
Since taking the helm in March 2021, she has steered one of the world's most influential financial institutions into the future. Her remarkable journey to the pinnacle of the banking industry is a testament to her outstanding leadership and dedication.
Jane Fraser was born in St Andrews, Scotland, in 1967. Her educational journey laid the foundation for her future success. She attended Girton College, Cambridge, where she pursued a degree in economics. Graduating in 1988, she earned a BA (promoted to an MA per tradition), setting the stage for her illustrious career.
Following her studies in the UK, Jane embarked on a path that would eventually lead her to the world of high finance. Her journey began at Goldman Sachs in London, where she worked as a mergers and acquisitions analyst. Her talents and ambition soon became apparent.
Jane Fraser's thirst for knowledge and adventure took her to Harvard Business School, where she earned her MBA in 1994. Her time at Harvard further honed her financial acumen and prepared her for the challenges that lay ahead.
In 1994, Jane Fraser joined McKinsey & Company, a renowned global management consulting firm. She spent a decade working in financial services and global strategy, eventually rising to the esteemed position of partner.
During her tenure, she co-authored a book titled "Race for the World: Strategies to Build a Great Global Firm," which delved into the complexities of globalisation.
Her deep understanding of global markets was forged during this time, as she travelled to China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Singapore, and India, interviewing McKinsey clients about their global challenges.
Her work at McKinsey attracted the attention of Citigroup's Michael Klein, who persistently encouraged her to join Citigroup, which she eventually did in 2004.
Jane Fraser's tenure at Citigroup commenced in 2004 when she joined as the Head of Client Strategy in Citigroup's investment and global banking division. Her impressive trajectory within the bank led to her appointment as Global Head of Strategy and Mergers and Acquisitions in October 2007.
During this time, she faced the daunting task of navigating Citigroup through the financial crisis of 2007-2009. She was part of the executive team responsible for restructuring the group, leading its re-engineering efforts, divestments, and raising new capital.
In June 2009, Jane Fraser took on the role of CEO of Citi Private Bank, which was operating at an annual deficit of approximately $250 million. Under her leadership, the bank returned to profitability.
She implemented a more efficient model with a target of one banker for every 30 clients, removed commissions, and introduced year-end discretionary bonuses.
In May 2013, Jane Fraser was appointed CEO of CitiMortgage, where she navigated the market's shift from mortgage refinancing to selling residential mortgages to homebuyers. Her tenure at Citigroup is marked by adaptability and financial acumen.
In a historic move, Jane Fraser was named CEO of Citigroup Inc., effective in February 2021. This appointment marked a significant milestone as she became the first woman to lead a major U.S. bank. Leading the third-largest bank in the United States is a testament to her leadership capabilities.
During the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jane Fraser adopted a different approach, allowing staff to work from home and offering greater flexibility in their schedules.
She aimed to differentiate Citigroup from other bulge bracket banks and make it a more attractive employer. Her leadership approach emphasises innovation and adaptability.
Jane Fraser's influence goes beyond the world of finance. She is involved in various organisations, serving as Vice Chair for Partnership for New York City and a member of the Harvard Business School’s Board of Dean’s Advisors, the Stanford Global Advisory Board, the Economic Club of New York, and the Council on Foreign Relations.
Her leadership extends to the Touch Foundation and Citigroup's Operations team, where she has played a crucial role.
Jane Fraser's remarkable journey in banking has earned her numerous accolades and recognitions. She has been ranked among Fortune's "Most Powerful Women in Business" and recognised as the "Number 1 Woman to Watch" by American Banker, both in 2014 and 2015.
In 2021, she was selected for Forbes' "50 Over 50," a list celebrating entrepreneurs, leaders, scientists, and creators over the age of 50.
Jane Fraser is more than just a banking executive. She is a wife and mother of two sons. Her husband, Alberto Piedra, left his job as a bank manager in Europe to spend more time caring for their children during the financial crisis of 2008.
Fraser's dedication to her family and community is evident in her volunteer work, including her participation in Citi Global Community Day, where she and other volunteers contributed to local community projects.
Jane Fraser's dedication to Citigroup, her pioneering role as a female CEO in the financial industry, and her community involvement make her a true leader who goes beyond the corporate realm.
Jane Fraser's success is not only a matter of leadership but also of financial acumen. Her estimated net worth as the Chief Executive Officer of Citigroup Inc. is around $12.76 million, reflecting her exceptional career in the world of banking.
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