New Leadership
The Conference Board, a leading global research organization, is pleased to announce the appointment of Maria Demertzis as the new head of its Economics, Strategy, and Finance Center in Europe, effective September 2024. This strategic move marks a significant step in advancing The Conference Board’s mission to deliver insightful and impactful research on economic issues affecting the European region.
Maria Demertzis’s New Role
In her new role, Demertzis will oversee The Conference Board Europe’s economics team, driving research and providing strategic guidance on crucial topics such as European competitiveness, productivity, and economic security. She will be responsible for leading efforts to analyse and interpret economic trends and their implications for businesses and policymakers across Europe. Demertzis’s appointment follows the tenure of John Metselaar, who has served as the ESF Center Leader and will continue to contribute to the organization in an expanded role focusing on business innovation and transformation.
Background and Experience
Demertzis comes to The Conference Board from Bruegel, a prominent think tank in Brussels, where she held the position of Senior Fellow and, from 2016 to 2022, served as Deputy Director. Her extensive background in global macroeconomics and European policy is expected to bring a fresh perspective and strategic depth to The Conference Board’s research initiatives.
Sara Murray, Managing Director, International, at The Conference Board, expressed enthusiasm about the appointment, stating, “Maria’s deep expertise in global macroeconomics and European policy will be instrumental in guiding CEOs and C-suite leaders through a period marked by both substantial upheaval and unprecedented opportunities. Her appointment underscores our commitment to offering a reliable and non-partisan voice on the European economy. We extend our sincere thanks to John Metselaar for his exceptional leadership and ongoing contributions, particularly in the realms of business innovation and transformation.”
Demertzis’s Vision and Goals
Demertzis expressed her excitement about her new role, saying, “I am thrilled to join The Conference Board and contribute to its esteemed legacy. The organization’s extensive network and dedication to delivering authoritative economic analysis provide a unique platform for understanding Europe’s economic trajectory and shaping the role of business within it. I look forward to working closely with The Conference Board’s team and members to address the pressing economic challenges and opportunities facing Europe today.”
Previous Experience
Prior to her role at Bruegel, Demertzis amassed extensive experience at the European Commission and the Dutch Central Bank’s research division. Her work focused on macroeconomic forecasting, modelling, and policy advice, providing her with a robust foundation in economic analysis and policy development. Additionally, Demertzis has held academic positions at prestigious institutions including the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, the University of Amsterdam, and the University of Strathclyde, further enhancing her expertise and understanding of economic dynamics.
Anticipated Impact
As Demertzis steps into her new role, The Conference Board anticipates that her leadership will drive further advancements in the organization’s research capabilities and its ability to provide valuable insights to its members. Her appointment is expected to strengthen The Conference Board’s position as a leading source of economic intelligence and strategic guidance for businesses navigating the complexities of the European and global economies.