"When I started working as a statistician back in 1975, I didn't know what the future would bring me, whether the work would give me satisfaction and how my work career would develop. Today, looking back on this time, I can happily say that I was lucky to choose the right profession in life, which has given me the opportunity to grow from a specialist to the head of the institution over the years," said Aija Žīgure.
Before heading the agemcy, Aija Žigure worked in the areas of price and trade statistics, regional statistics, data distribution, and also held the position of deputy head of the CSB. Her time has seen Latvia regain its independence and join the European Union and Eurozone, all of which have meant an ever more important and complex role for the CSB.
Aija Žigure's contribution to the field of statistics has been recognized both in Latvia and internationally. She has been awarded the Cabinet of Ministers award for long-term and professional work, as well as the Cross of Recognition for her merits in the development of the national statistical administration, her great personal contribution to the development of statistical standards and methodology, promoting the inclusion of the Latvian statistical system in the European Statistical System.
Since 2020, Aija Žīgure has been an honorary member of the University of Latvia for her great contribution to ensuring the quality of studies and research development at the University of Latvia. In 2019, she was presented with a letter of thanks from the Latvian Academy of Sciences and on December 19 this year, Minister of Economics Viktors Valainis presented her with a letter of appreciation.