Simeon Djankov

About Simeon Djankov

Economics papers were still being published when Simeon Djankov took the helm of Bulgaria's Fiscal Council in March 2025. Born on July 13, 1970, Djankov is a Bulgarian economist who has spent decades shaping financial policy across continents. His appointment as chairman marked a return to his home country's fiscal matters after years of influence at global institutions.

From 2009 to 2013, Djankov served as deputy prime minister and minister of finance under Boyko Borisov. During this period, he became a vocal advocate for Bulgaria's entry into the Eurozone. His tenure in government positioned him as one of Eastern Europe's most influential economic voices.

Before his cabinet role, Djankov built his reputation at the World Bank. He rose to chief economist of the finance and private sector vice-presidency. His work included directing the publication of landmark reports like Women Business and the Law and the World Development Reports.

Djankov's name became attached to the Doing Business reports, which measured regulatory environments across nations. These reports shaped how countries were perceived by international investors. However, an audit later documented that Djankov, along with then World Bank CEO Georgieva, had pressured staff to make data for China and Saudi Arabia look more favorable. The reports were discontinued following this controversy.

His academic credentials run deep. He served as associate editor of the Journal of Comparative Economics from 2004 to 2009. Between 2013 and 2015, he was rector of the New Economic School in Moscow.

Since November 2015, Djankov has held the position of director for policy at the Financial Markets Group at the London School of Economics. This role has allowed him to influence economic thinking across Europe's financial sector. His work continues to shape discussions on markets and regulation.

Djankov's career reflects the interconnected world of global finance. He has moved between government, international institutions, and academia. His latest appointment as chairman of Bulgaria's Fiscal Council brings his expertise full circle, back to his native country.