Position: Prime Minister
Incumbent: Johanna Sigurdardottir
Date of Birth: October 4, 1942
Term: 2009-2012
Key Facts:
-- Sigurdardottir was elected Prime Minister in 2009 after protests over an economic meltdown toppled the previous conservative-led government.
-- Her Social Democratic Alliance governs in coalition with the Left-Greens.
-- Born in Reykjavik, Sigurdardottir became part of former prime minister Geir Haarde's government for the Social Democratic Alliance in 2007 and has been a member of Iceland's 63-member Althing since 1978.
-- A political veteran, she was one of the more popular ministers in previous Prime Minister Geir Haarde's cabinet, serving as minister for social affairs.
-- Under Sigurdardottir's watch, Iceland submitted an application to join the European Union, saying it was the best way to revive an economy crippled by the collapse of its banks and currency. She is a staunch supporter of the country adopting the euro currency.
-- Sigurdardottir is the world's first openly gay head of state and is married to Jonina Leosdottir, an author and playwright.
-- Before she became a member of parliament, Sigurdardottir was an office worker and an airline stewardess for Iceland's flag carrier Loftleidir, now Icelandair, where she became involved in labour union work.
-- Sigurdardottir was vice chairwoman of the Social Democrats from 1984 to 1993.