International industry leader Philippe Varin has been elected Chair of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) – the voice of world business, representing over 45 million businesses.
Mr Varin succeeds Maria Fernanda Garza Merodio – who becomes ICC’s Honorary Chair – following a unanimous vote of the organisation’s over 90 national committees at its Global Headquarters in Paris.
Upon his election Mr Varin said: “I am deeply conscious that the founding mission of the International Chamber of Commerce – to promote peace and prosperity through global trade – is of immense strategic importance and a challenge in a world that is increasingly characterised by conflicts and intense geoeconomic competition.
“The international business community needs to be more vocal in calling out the risks of economic and political fragmentation – as well as the damaging effects of unilateral and protectionist policies. I am committed to ensuring that business leads from the front in driving policy reforms to address major global challenges – in particular by mobilising innovative coalitions to accelerate sustainable development.”
Mr Varin has set out a five pillar strategy for his two-year tenure as ICC Chair, encompassing: international trade, the rule of law, climate action, trade digitalisation and multilateral cooperation.
He added: “In a uniquely challenging environment for the private sector, I feel an immense responsibility to ensure that ICC delivers real impact for businesses – large and small – across our global network. I look forward to working with our teams across the world to maximise the value and reach of our full suite of activities and services.”
Commenting on Mr Varin’s election, ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said: “Philippe’s assured leadership, focus on performance and delivery, and deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing international business will be hugely valuable as we continue our transformation to a stronger and more dynamic institution.
“I look forward to working hand-in-hand with Philippe throughout his tenure and take this opportunity to thank our outgoing chair, Maria Fernanda Garza, for the unique value she has created for our global network over the past two years.”
ICC has also announced the election of three prominent business leaders to its chairmanship: Harsh Pati Singhania (First-Vice Chair), Shinta Kamdani (Vice Chair) and Patrick Obath (Vice Chair).
