John Denton and Paul Polman to take up new leadership roles at world’s largest business organisation

“We are delighted to have secured John Denton as ICC’s next Secretary General. John will bring to the role a wealth of experience from the world of business, law and international diplomacy. His engagement as ICC’s First Vice-Chair over the last 18 months makes him uniquely placed to build on the recent achievements of the organisation. I also take this opportunity to thank John Danilovich for providing exemplary leadership to our organisation over the past several years.”

Commenting on his election, Mr Denton added:
“I’m deeply honoured to have been elected as Secretary General of the International Chamber of Commerce. At a time when the dual threat of populism and protectionism still loom large, it’s more vital than ever for business to have a seat at the table in global policymaking. ICC has a unique role to play in ensuring the views and experience of the global private sector are taken into account in key global forums - from the United Nations to the G20. I look forward to working with ICC’s global network in over 100 countries to do just that.”

ICC Chairmanship transition 

Paul Polman, CEO of Unilever, has also been unanimously elected as ICC’s new First Vice-Chair. Mr Polman will succeed current ICC Chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal from 1July, 2018, who in turn will take the position of Honorary Chair.

Mr Polman is a globally recognised business leader and a pioneer in the field of corporate sustainability. Mr Polman served as a member of the UN Secretary General’s High-Level Panel responsible for formulating the Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs) - launched in 2015 - and was subsequently appointed as a UN SDG Advocate responsible for promoting the “Global Goals”.

Following his appointment, Mr Polman said:

“I am very much looking forward to joining the ICC Chairmanship. As the world’s largest business organisation, ICC plays a vital role in speaking up for the private sector and helping businesses to adapt swiftly and responsibly to current and emerging global challenges and drive progress against the Sustainable Development Goals.”