Biography
Paul Polman,
Business leader, campaigner, co-author of “Net Positive”
Paul Polman works to accelerate action by business to tackle climate change and inequality.
As CEO of Unilever (2009-2019), Paul demonstrated that business can profit through purpose, marrying a long-term, multi-stakeholder model with excellent financial performance. During Paul’s tenure, shareholders saw their returns increase by 290% while the company consistently ranked 1st in the world for sustainability.
Today, Paul works across a range of organisations to advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals, which he helped to develop. This includes his work to drive systems change with Systemiq and bold new industry coalitions, including in fashion and food.
He leads the UN Global Compact, is an Ambassador for the Race to Zero, and works to develop our next generation of leaders, through the Oxford University Saïd Business School, INSEAD, One Young World and others. Paul actively campaigns on a range of human rights issues, including promoting disability inclusion through the Valuable 500 and the Kilimanjaro Blind Trust, which he set up with his wife, Kim.
Follow him on Twitter, sign up to receive his newsletter or learn more at www.paulpolman.com.
