Alexander Stubb

Alexander Stubb, with his extensive background in politics, geopolitics and international relations, is a distinguished figure in the realm of global governance and European affairs. As the Director and Professor of the School of Transnational Governance at the European University Institute since May 2020, Stubb brings a wealth of experience, having served in pivotal roles including Prime Minister, Finance Minister, Foreign Minister, Trade and Europe Minister of Finland, and as a Member of both the European and Finnish Parliaments. His tenure in these roles, spanning from 2004 to 2017, underscores his deep engagement in European and global politics. Stubb's journey in international relations is marked by his significant contributions to European integration. His involvement in negotiating key treaties like Amsterdam, Nice and Lisbon, as part of President Romano Prodi’s team at the European Commission and the Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlights his skill in diplomatic negotiation and his commitment to European unity.

His leadership roles, particularly as Prime Minister of Finland and later as the Minister of Finance, demonstrate his ability to navigate complex political landscapes. Alexander's tenure saw him leading Finland through challenging times and engaging in critical coalition negotiations, reflecting his strategic acumen and political savvy. Alexander's internal party challenges and his subsequent role as Vice-President of the European Investment Bank reveal his resilience and adaptability in the face of changing political tides. His appointment as Director and Professor of the School of Transnational Governance at the European University Institute in 2020 marked a return to academia, where he continues to influence the discourse on transnational governance.

As a Visiting Professor at the College of Europe in Bruges, he influenced a generation of students in European studies. Alexander's written works further establish his expertise, he has authored numerous books and academic articles on European affairs and regularly contributes columns to prominent newspapers, including the Financial Times, sharing insights into the dynamic landscape of European politics. Beyond his professional achievements, Alexander is known for his vigour and dynamism, exemplified by his passion for sports and triathlons. This personal dimension adds to his appeal as a speaker, combining intellectual depth with a relatable and energetic personality.

In 2023, Stubb announced his candidacy in the 2024 Finnish presidential election, showcasing his ongoing commitment to public service and governance. His performance in the first round of voting, leading to a runoff, indicates his enduring popularity and respect in Finnish politics. Overall, Alexander Stubb's career embodies a blend of political acumen, academic excellence, and a deep understanding of European and global affairs, making him an authoritative and compelling speaker on politics, geopolitics and international relations.