ICC’s Executive Board has welcomed five distinguished figures from various countries, continuing its mission to promote international trade and represent businesses worldwide. The new appointments made at the annual meeting of the ICC World Council on June 20, 2023 were confirmed yesterday through an official press release.
The new members of the 27-seat Executive Board include Arancha Gonzalez from Spain, Patricia Nzolantima from the Republic Democratic of Congo, Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu from Türkiye, Omolara Ololade Akanji from Nigeria, and Cameron McKenzie from Puerto Rico. Each of the leaders will serve a three-year term, effective from the date of the announcement.
The addition of these members signifies a historic milestone for the organization, as it now boasts 48% women representation on the Board – surpassing its target of at least 40%. This increase in gender diversity aligns with the ICC’s commitment to advocating for equal opportunities in the global business sector.
Moreover, the new appointments have broadened the geographical diversity on the board, with members now hailing from Africa, the B-MENA region, Europe, Asia, and the Americas. This ensures a more comprehensive and balanced representation of global business interests.
The Executive Board is tasked with the development and execution of ICC’s strategy, policy, and programme of action, as well as overseeing its financial affairs.
The World Council meeting also marked the re-election of several incumbents, including Shinta Kamdani, CEO of Sintesa Group (Indonesia), Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al-Thani, Chairman ICC Qatar (Qatar), Valentina Mintah, CEO, West Blue Consulting (Ghana), Dario Gallina, President, Torino Chamber of Commerce (Italy) for a second term.
At the same time, the organisation bid farewell to outgoing Board members Sebastian Escarrer, Chair ICC Spain, and Patrick Obath, Chair ICC Kenya, who have completed their respective mandates.
The new board members are prominent leaders in their fields, with extensive experience in international relations, trade, entrepreneurship, and economic development. Their unique perspectives and skills are expected to contribute significantly to the board’s work and the broader objectives of the ICC.
ICC Chair Maria Fernanda Garza commented, “The new members and leaders in their fields will undoubtedly be valuable additions to the current board, enriching it with their expertise in finance, trade, innovation, and their dedication to enhancing ICC’s work on digital trade and global commerce. ICC also thanks the outgoing Executive Board members, Sebastian Escarrer, Patrick Obath, for their contributions to the organisation throughout their respective tenures. We look forward to continuing our mission of promoting cross-border commerce that fosters peace, prosperity, and opportunity for all with the guidance and expertise of our new Board members and leaders.”
As the world continues to face economic challenges and opportunities, the ICC’s new board members are poised to guide the organization in achieving its objectives, promoting economic growth and fostering sustainable development.
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