We are pleased to share that Elias Papaioannou, Professor of Economics, Alex Knaster Chair in Economics and Co-Academic Director of the Wheeler Institute at London Business School, has been elected Vice‑President of the European Economic Association (EEA), one of Europe’s leading associations in Economics.
The EEA brings together researchers, policymakers, educators and practitioners to advance economic knowledge and its application to real‑world challenges. Elias’ election positions him to serve as President‑Elect in 2027 and President in 2028, highlighting the confidence of the European economics community in his leadership. He succeeds Hélène Rey, Lord Bagri Professor of Economics at London Business School.
On his election, he said:
“I am deeply humbled by this recognition. I am sincerely thankful to my colleagues across Europe, who entrusted me with their vote. This appointment would not have been possible without the support of the School and the Economics Subject Area. My ambition is to help raise the profile of the Association and economics in European policymaking, which is needed more than ever, given the ongoing geopolitical tensions.”
Elias’ research spans areas central to the Wheeler Institute’s mission, including international finance, political economy, economic history, and development, and his work bridges academic inquiry with insights that matter for policymakers and practitioners alike.
His contributions have been widely recognised both within and beyond the Wheeler Institute. Recently he was appointed Alexander Knaster Chair in Economics at London Business School, led our African History Through the Lens of Economics lecture series, highly commended by the Financial Times, and was appointed Fellow of the British Academy, reflecting his sustained impact on research, teaching, and public engagement in economics globally.