Her plan to depart in February, months before the end of an eight-year term, sets in motion a selection process among European leaders for a new central bank president.
Christine Lagardeβs appointment as the European Central Bankβs first female president was the latest step in a career of breaking gender barriers, while also contending with economic crises.
Lisa D. Cook, a Fed governor, in January. In recent weeks, the White House has redoubled its efforts to oust Ms. Cook over allegations of mortgage fraud that she has consistently denied.