Heidrick & Struggles, a leading global executive search and consulting firm, has strengthened its Climate & Sustainability Practice by appointing four senior leaders in Europe. This move underscores the company’s commitment to supporting organizations in addressing critical climate challenges and advancing sustainability-focused business strategies.
With Scott Atkinson, Global Head of Climate & Sustainability Practice, at the helm, the company is looking to expand its executive search, advisory services, and climate technology expertise. The appointments come at a time when companies around the world are dealing with growing climate risks and the importance of sustainable value creation.
In line with this, Jenni Hibbert, Global Managing Partner for Go-To-Market, stated that leadership will play a vital role in dealing with sustainability issues. “Accelerating sustainability is a complex undertaking that requires having the right leadership and resources in place,” Hibbert said. The expanded team will help organizations build resilience, enhance climate governance, and develop innovative solutions for a sustainable future.
Strategic Appointments Bolster Expertise
Recent additions to the firm include expertise in climate technology, decarbonization, and venture capital. The firm’s senior leaders in the climate practice Uroš Zver, Rafe Jackson, and William Gibbs specialize in cutting-edge solutions for high-growth climate tech ventures and established firms. They will be crucial support for clients navigating decarbonization, scaling climate technologies, and incorporating sustainable practices.
In addition, Edmund Thomson Jones will join Heidrick & Struggles to further develop the firm’s Venture Capital Practice. Deeply experienced in venture and growth equity, Jones is expected to further strengthen the company’s ability to support clients in scaling climate innovations and addressing financing challenges.
These senior leaders come from True, the global search firm known for its capabilities in venture and growth sectors. Their combined experience is expected to add to Heidrick & Struggles’ ability to service organizations of all industries so that they have the best leadership to face climate challenges.
Addressing a Rising Need for Climate Leadership
This development is in line with the growing need for executive leadership in sustainability, particularly with global events such as COP30 bringing climate issues to the fore. Businesses and governments are looking for ways to decarbonize operations, mitigate climate risks, and seize opportunities for growth through sustainability.
Scott Atkinson praised the firm’s growing capabilities, saying: “Our four new partners further strengthen our ability to support premier organizations across the public and private capital sectors.” Heidrick & Struggles’ approach combined talent acquisition with strategic advisory services, enabling clients to address climate challenges while unlocking business value.
The firm’s Climate & Sustainability Practice addresses areas such as decarbonization strategy, scaling climate tech ventures, and innovation in renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure. Such efforts are very important in this regard since companies around the globe are struggling to meet their net-zero ambitions while adhering to changing regulatory environments.
A Vision for Sustainability-Driven Growth
Heidrick & Struggles goes beyond talent solutions in terms of sustainability. Its global reach and multidisciplinary capabilities make it a strategic partner for organizations as they transition toward a low-carbon economy. Aligning leadership with sustainability priorities enables Heidrick & Struggles to help clients create long-term value and drive systemic change.
“We help our clients solve today’s most critical global challenges and unlock business value creation opportunities,” Atkinson added. The newly appointed leaders are believed to play a significant part in determining the future shape of climate leadership, ensuring that organizations are resourced and strategized to succeed in an environment aware of elevated environmental awareness.
As the world approaches COP30, the need for strong climate governance and innovative solutions has never been more pressing. Heidrick & Struggles’ extended team reflects the firm’s proactive approach to meeting these challenges and reiterates its position as a global leader in sustainability and climate solutions.
These additions by Heidrick & Struggles will further strengthen the firm to drive transformative change, helping organizations navigate the complexities of sustainability while unlocking new growth opportunities. It is a strategic expansion that reflects the firm’s pivotal role in shaping a more sustainable and resilient global economy.