Worldwide hunt for a new CEO commences following David Atkin's resignation at PRI
Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) Seeks New CEO as David Atkin Announces Departure
The Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), a United Nations-supported organisation promoting responsible investment, is currently searching for a new CEO. The current CEO, David Atkin, has announced his plans to step down in 2026 after leading the PRI through a period of rapid growth and structural change.
Over the past years, Atkin has strengthened the PRI's relationships across the asset owner community and transformed the organisation. His vision and dedication have been instrumental in the PRI's success, as it now counts over 5,000 signatories managing assets totaling over $121 trillion.
The search for a new CEO is being led by a Board-appointed committee, chaired by Sharon Hendricks, vice chair of the CalSTRS Investment Committee. Executive search firm Korn Ferry has been appointed to manage the recruitment process.
In the upcoming years, the PRI aims to strengthen its governance with a diverse, skilled, and globally representative board to effectively lead responsible investment efforts. The organisation encourages leadership with governance expertise, diversity, and demonstrated experience in responsible investment to enhance its global impact.
The PRI also plans to promote responsible investment aligned with long-term sustainability and fairness. This includes supporting global investor action on critical sustainability challenges like mining, as demonstrated by the Global Investor Commission on Mining 2030.
Under Atkin's leadership, the PRI has simplified its reporting framework and reorganised its operating model to better serve signatories. The organisation also intends to enhance its proposition with a refreshed digital platform and provide greater support for asset owners.
As the PRI prepares for COP30 and its 20th anniversary in 2026, it plans to reinforce the financial materiality of sustainability issues. The organisation is also committed to continuing expanding into emerging markets.
Atkin will remain in post over the next year to support the transition, ensuring a seamless handover and continuing to advance PRI's strategic goals. Conor Kehoe, the PRI Board chair, stated that Atkin's leadership has been transformative and that the organisation is well-positioned for the future.
[1] Source [3] Source
- The PRI is seeking a new CEO with governance expertise, diversity, and demonstrated experience in responsible investment to enhance its global impact in promoting long-term sustainability and fairness in finance and business.
- To achieve its strategic goals, the PRI plans to strengthen its governance, promote responsible investment, enhance its digital platform, and expand into emerging markets, with a focus on the financial materiality of sustainability issues.
