Gary Cohn is a prominent American businessman and philanthropist known for his influential roles in both the private and public sectors. He served as the 11th director of the National Economic Council and chief economic advisor to President Donald Trump from 2017 to 2018, where he managed the administration’s economic policy agenda. Cohn was instrumental in the passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which resulted in significant increases in disposable income and job creation, showcasing his ability to drive impactful economic reforms.
Prior to his tenure in the White House, Cohn had a distinguished career at Goldman Sachs, where he worked for over 25 years. He joined the firm in 1990 and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a partner in 1994. His leadership as head of the Fixed Income, Currency and Commodities division and later as president and COO was marked by strategic growth and innovation, solidifying Goldman Sachs’s position as a leader in the financial industry.
After leaving the Trump administration, Cohn transitioned into the role of advisor and venture capital investor, focusing on sectors such as cybersecurity and blockchain technology. He has taken on significant positions, including vice-chairman of IBM and chairman of the advisory board at Pallas Advisors, demonstrating his commitment to advancing technology and security in the modern economy.
Cohn’s philanthropic efforts are equally noteworthy, as he has supported various educational and healthcare initiatives. He has been involved with organizations like Harlem RBI and has funded scholarships and professorships at American University and NYU. His dedication to community service and education reflects his belief in giving back and fostering future generations of leaders.