WBCSD Elects Peter Bakker As Its New President

GENEVA, Sept. 9, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) today announced that its Executive Committee has approved the appointment of Peter Bakker as its new President effective January 1, 2012. Mr. Bakker, the former CEO of Dutch logistics giant TNT, succeeds Bjorn Stigson, who will retire.

The appointment comes at an important time for the WBCSD, a CEO-led, global coalition of some 200 companies advocating for progress on sustainable development. Business is increasingly looked upon to bring innovative solutions for solving major sustainability challenges.

Mr. Bakker, 50, who stepped down as CEO of logistics giant TNT after its recent demerger, is currently an Ambassador Against Hunger at the UN World Food Program. In addition to successfully leading TNT for 10 years, Mr. Bakker was instrumental in developing a unique anti-hunger partnership between TNT and the UN World Food Program, as well as making TNT one of the leading companies on the Dow Jones Sustainability Index.

"Peter brings a unique set of skills to the WBCSD, which will help the Council expand its role as the leading proponent of business solutions for sustainability in the future," said Jorma Ollila, Chairman, WBCSD.  "He combines recognized business acumen with a deep understanding of, and commitment to, sustainability issues."

"More than ever, the WBCSD is helping business lead by example through innovative tools and shared best practices that create positive sustainability advocacy and outcomes," explained Mr. Stigson. "I know with certainty that Peter is the right person to lead this organization going forward because of his remarkable experience. He understands sustainability solutions, but more importantly, he understands the value they can bring."

Mr. Bakker said: "Bjorn has been instrumental in changing the perception of business from the problem creator to a problem solver of sustainability. His farsighted work has led to real progress and real outcomes. I am honored to assume the leadership of this critical platform for a sustainable future where business is driving solutions."

From January 2012, Mr. Stigson will, after 17 years of leadership, remain engaged with the WBCSD as a senior advisor to the President until July 2012. He will also continue his work as visiting professor holding the Assan Gabrielson Chair in Applied Corporate Management at the School of Business, Economics and Law at the University of Gothenburg.

"Under Bjorn's inspiring leadership the WBCSD has established itself as the leading and constructive business voice on sustainability issues with a wide range of stakeholders," said Mr. Ollila. "Thanks in no small part to Bjorn's visionary leadership, sustainability is fast becoming a core competency at leading businesses around the globe."

About the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD)

The WBCSD is a CEO-led, global coalition of some 200 companies advocating for progress on sustainable development. Its mission is to be a catalyst for innovation and sustainable growth in a world where resources are increasingly limited. The Council provides a platform for companies to share experiences and best practices on sustainable development issues and advocate for their implementation, working with governments, non-governmental and intergovernmental organizations. The membership has annual revenues of USD 7 trillion, spans more than 35 countries and represents 20 major industrial sectors. The Council also benefits from a network of 60 national and regional business councils and partner organizations, a majority of which are based in developing countries.

www.wbcsd.org

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SOURCE World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD)