Robert J. Shapiro

Robert J. Shapiro is an economist and policy expert, serving as chairman of Sonecon LLC, a consultancy advising U.S. and international businesses, governments, and nonprofit organizations on economic and security issues. Shapiro has contributed to public policy as Under Secretary of Commerce for Economic Affairs, where he directed economic policy and oversaw the U.S. Census Bureau during a decennial census. His expertise has been utilized by leaders including Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, and senior executives from Fortune 100 companies, demonstrating his influence across public and private sectors.

Shapiro holds a Ph.D. and M.A. from Harvard University, an M.Sc. from the London School of Economics, and an A.B. from the University of Chicago. He has held fellowships at institutions including Harvard, Brookings Institution, and National Bureau of Economic Research. In addition to his consultancy work, Shapiro is a senior fellow at Georgetown University's McDonough School of Business, contributing to research and policy discussions on economic growth, innovation, and globalization.

Shapiro has published in scholarly and popular outlets and has served as an advisor to the International Monetary Fund and on the boards of various organizations. He is recognized for communicating complex economic concepts and is a keynote speaker at conferences and events. Shapiro's career includes public service, thought leadership, and ongoing contributions to economic policy and business strategy.