Charlotte, climate finance and policy expert at the International Monetary Fund

My core responsibilities involve integrating climate considerations into the IMF's lending operations and shaping global climate-related financial policies. I actively participate in incorporating financial sector policy diagnoses and negotiating policy conditionalities for climate-related loans, with a focus on energy financing and financial sector reforms. A key aspect of my role is providing technical assistance to governments and central banks on climate risks and financial planning for transition and adaptation in program countries, particularly in West and Central Africa and Latin America. I also contribute to developing climate-related financial regulation at the multilateral level and participate in the IMF's surveillance of climate risks, including methodology design and co-authoring flagship reports. For instance, I co-lead a Financial Stability Board workstream focused on including climate vulnerabilities in global risk analysis frameworks. My analytical contributions span research on energy sector transition and fossil fuel phaseout financing, nature-related risks, and banking regulation. This role demands a blend of deep policy expertise on climate change and the financial sector, strong analytical, negotiation, communication, and project management skills, alongside linguistic proficiency to effectively engage with diverse countries globally.

Looking back, I would say that my path to this role reflects a progressive development in regulatory policy, climate finance, and economic policy design and implementation. My time at the French Ministry of Economy and Finance was undoubtedly invaluable, providing deep exposure to the intricacies of domestic and European policy development and negotiation in this critical area. There, I gained a strong understanding of financial regulatory policy and its pivotal role in shaping macroeconomic policy around climate finance. I also navigated the complexities of the political economy, honed negotiation skills across diverse European perspectives and capacities, and gained practical experience in policy implementation and legal drafting. My earlier work as a Policy Officer at the French Securities Markets Authority, my first professional step after studies and diverse traineeships in law and economic policy, offered a grounding in financial market regulation and the initial integration of sustainability considerations. Complementing this practical experience, my studies at Sciences Po, with a focus on international economic policy and risk analysis, alongside rigorous training in econometric methods and statistics (further developed through my ongoing Ph.D. in Economics pursued alongside my career), equipped me with a crucial blend of on-the-ground domestic experience and the analytical frameworks of law and economics essential for a role at the IMF. Finally, the support and insightful guidance from the Sciences Po network, particularly from former professors with experience in international financial institutions, were instrumental in providing the necessary encouragement to pursue this opportunity.

The most fascinating aspect of my job is undoubtedly the incredible opportunity to collaborate directly with governments spanning the globe. It's a privilege to stand at the crossroads of climate finance and the international financial system, engaging with diverse perspectives and learning firsthand about the unique macroeconomic challenges countries face as they strive for climate transition and adaptation. Each interaction is a chance to absorb invaluable insights, especially from my more experienced colleagues at the IMF, whose deep understanding of global finance and policy is truly inspiring. Together, we navigate the complexities of developing tailored solutions, aiming to empower countries to finance their climate ambition and build a more resilient future. It's deeply rewarding to be part of this collaborative effort, especially in the current context, fostering innovative approaches that can make a tangible difference.

Looking back, the foundational elements of my education at PSIA have undeniably contributed to my current role. The interdisciplinary approach, combining international economic policy, public management, and a subsequent master’s in financial law finalized during a gap year, provided a robust framework for understanding the complexities of the international financial system and its intersection with policy. I particularly recall the courses on economic methods and country risk analysis, which equipped me with essential analytical tools for my work today, as well as those on financial and banking regulation, the macroeconomics of trade, and diplomacy, all of which remain highly relevant.

 What I learned at PSIA has proven remarkably applicable to my career tasks and challenges. Exposure to diverse policy areas and insightful professors from government, the financial sector, and international organizations, alongside teamwork and essay assignments, honed my ability to learn quickly, conduct both quantitative and qualitative analysis, and develop written outputs under pressure – skills that are crucial in my professional life. Furthermore, PSIA provided an invaluable international network that has benefited me both professionally and socially in Paris, Brussels, and now Washington, D.C. The core principles and analytical skills instilled at PSIA, though some time ago, remain enduringly relevant to the work I do.

Looking back at my own journey, my advice to current students would be this: cultivate a spirit of proactive exploration. Don't wait for opportunities to land in your lap; actively seek them out, whether through extracurricular projects, complementary degrees, attending events beyond your immediate curriculum, or delving into subjects that spark your curiosity, even if they seem tangential. Versatility is your superpower in a rapidly evolving world, so embrace the chance to learn across disciplines. This is a significant asset fostered at Sciences Po, unlike the more specialized focus often found in the French academic system, so take full advantage of it!

Dare to connect. While it's common advice, the wealth of experience surrounding you, in your professors at Sciences Po, and the broader professional world, is immense. Don't hesitate to reach out; it's not just about networking for future jobs but about enriching your perspective and forging meaningful connections that extend beyond your career.

Nurture a resilient self-belief. The path ahead won't always be smooth; setbacks are inevitable. View them not as failures, but as crucial learning experiences that bring you closer to finding your niche. Trust in your abilities and your potential. Take time for introspection: what truly ignites your drive and passion? Let these intrinsic motivators guide your explorations, because ultimately, what drives you will sustain you through daily work for the next decades…!

Finally, liberate yourself from the pressure of a perfectly mapped-out future. It's perfectly okay to feel uncertain in your early twenties; your career journey is rarely a straight line. Embrace the uncertainty, be open to unexpected paths, and trust that by pursuing your interests and developing your skills, you will find your place and your purpose will evolve organically.