Paul Polman

Paul Polman is an internationally recognised business leader, philanthropist, investor, speaker, and advocate for sustainable development.

As CEO of Unilever (2009–2019), he pioneered a more responsible and purpose-driven business model, demonstrating that sustainability delivers superior performance. During his tenure, shareholder returns increased by 290% while the company was consistently ranked as the world’s most sustainable business and one of the world’s best places to work.

A co-architect of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, he continues to drive system-wide change by developing industry coalitions, accelerating leadership, and advancing sustainable finance through board roles, impact investments, and strategic advisory positions.

He chairs Oxford Saïd Business School, One Young World, and The Valuable 500, and serves on global advisory boards including Temasek, the World Trade Organization, SMBC, Allianz, and Systemiq. Paul sits on the boards of The Rockefeller Foundation and the European Climate Foundation. He co-chairs the Planetary Guardians, and is a co-founder and Chair Emeritus of IMAGINE. He leads pioneering initiatives through his own foundation and regenerative farm. Previously, Paul chaired the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), the UN Global Compact, and The B Team, and continues to advise governments navigating economic and sustainability transitions.