Pedro Francke (born 1975) is a Brazilian economist and public‑policy specialist who briefly served as Brazil’s Minister of Finance in the administration of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. He is known for his work in macroeconomic policy, fiscal reforms, and development economics, and has held senior positions in the Brazilian government, academic institutions, and international organizations.
Early life and education
Francke was born in Brazil in 1975. He earned a degree in economics from the Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro (PUC‑Rio) and later obtained a master’s degree in public policy from the Harvard Kennedy School. His academic training focused on macroeconomics, public finance, and development studies.
Career
- Brazilian Ministry of Finance – Prior to his ministerial appointment, Francke worked in various capacities within the Ministry of Finance, including as director of the department of fiscal policy and as a member of the Economic Policy Coordination team.
- Institute of Applied Economic Research (IPEA) – He served as a senior researcher and head of the public‑policy division at IPEA, where he contributed to studies on fiscal sustainability, public‑investment strategies, and social programs.
- World Bank and International Organizations – Francke has acted as consultant and technical adviser for the World Bank and other multilateral agencies on projects related to fiscal decentralization, tax reform, and poverty reduction in Brazil and other Latin‑American countries.
- Minister of Finance (June 2023 – January 2024) – On 27 June 2023, President Lula appointed Francke as Minister of Finance following the resignation of his predecessor. During his tenure, he oversaw the implementation of fiscal adjustment measures, engaged in negotiations with the National Congress on tax policy, and coordinated Brazil’s response to global economic volatility. He left the post in early 2024, succeeded by Rogério Ceron.
Academic and public contributions
Francke is a professor of economics at the Fundação Getulio Vargas (FGV) and has authored numerous articles and policy papers on fiscal policy, public‑sector reform, and economic development. His work is frequently cited in Brazilian policy debates and scholarly literature.
Personal life
Details about Francke’s personal life, including family and non‑professional interests, are not widely publicized.
Recognition
Francke has been recognized by Brazilian economic circles for his analytical rigor and pragmatic approach to fiscal challenges. He has participated in several high‑level panels and conferences on Latin‑American economic policy.
References
Public records from the Brazilian Ministry of Finance.
Publications and research reports issued by the Institute of Applied Economic Research (IPEA).
Biographical entries in reputable Brazilian news outlets and academic directories.