Paul Polman - Net Positive
Professional Overview
Paul Polman is a prominent business leader, climate and equalities campaigner, and former CEO of Unilever. He currently spearheads initiatives at Net Positive, a movement aimed at transforming corporate social responsibility into a force for global good by promoting business models that repair, restore, and regenerate the world. Under his leadership, Net Positive emphasizes five key accelerators: accelerating business, creating more leaders, moving capital, partnering with governments, and fostering inclusive societies.
Career Highlights
- CEO of Unilever (2009-2019): Polman led Unilever to substantial gains, increasing shareholder returns by 290% and consistently ranking the company as one of the world's most sustainable and desirable workplaces.
- Procter & Gamble and Nestle: Before Unilever, Polman accumulated valuable experience at these leading multinational corporations, where he mastered creating value through diverse business models driven by core values.
- Co-founder of IMAGINE: An initiative aimed at driving transformative leadership and partnership to tackle global challenges such as climate change and inequality.
Thought Leadership and Publications
- Co-author of "Net Positive: How Courageous Companies Thrive by Giving More Than They Take": In this book, Polman advocates for businesses to move beyond traditional corporate social responsibility and embrace more ambitious, regenerative business models. The book is rated 4.6 on Amazon with 402 reviews.
- Net Positive Newsletter: Paul Polman regularly publishes insights on smart business practices that thrive by addressing and solving global issues, rather than exacerbating them.
Strategic Insights and Initiatives
- Net Positive Employee Barometer 2023: This report indicates that 2 in 3 UK employees seek to work for companies that positively impact the world. This sentiment underscores a growing trend toward conscious quitting, where employees leave roles at companies that do not align with their values.
- Collaborative Leadership: Polman emphasizes collaborative efforts involving peers, critics, governments, and civil society to solve humanity's most pressing problems.
- Sustainable Development Goals: Polman played a pivotal role in the United Nations panel that developed the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, advocating for an inclusive, resilient, and prosperous global economy.
Additional Information
- Background: Born in the Netherlands, Polman completed his graduate studies in economics and business at the University of Cincinnati.
- LinkedIn Presence: Paul Polman is highly influential on LinkedIn, with 1 million followers and 224 connections. He actively engages in discussions on sustainable business practices and global challenges.
- Personal Life: Polman and his wife, Kim, are learning to farm and are committed to rewilding their property in southern England. He also enjoys spending time with his grandchildren.
Key Team Members at Net Positive
- Kelsey Finkelstein: Director of Partnerships and Strategic Engagements (on maternity leave until early 2025)
- Jeff Seabright: Former Chief Sustainability Officer at Unilever, leading high-impact projects
- Meryl McMillan: Oversees public engagements with extensive PR experience
- Zena Creed: Leads communications and campaigns, former Downing Street Advisor
- Joseph Confino: Acting Director of Partnerships and Strategic Engagements during Kelsey’s leave
Conclusion
Paul Polman's career demonstrates a profound commitment to creating sustainable and profitable businesses that serve global needs. His thought leadership and strategic initiatives at Net Positive provide a compelling framework for companies aiming to thrive by contributing positively to society.
