Name: Steve Kenzie
Current Title: Executive Director, UN Global Compact Network UK
Professional and Social Background
Steve Kenzie has been at the forefront of corporate sustainability since 2007, managing the Secretariat of the UN Global Compact Network UK. In this role, Steve has connected UK companies and organizations in a global movement dedicated to advancing corporate sustainability and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). His leadership and strategic oversight have been instrumental in building partnerships that encourage businesses to prioritize environmental stewardship, reduce emissions, and adopt sustainable practices. Steve’s international influence includes serving as the Chair of the UN Global Compact’s Global Network Council and as a UN Global Compact Board member. These roles have amplified his ability to shape and implement impactful sustainability policies across countries, leveraging global cooperation to address climate change. Before his tenure with the UN Global Compact Network UK, Steve was a Programme Director at the International Business Leaders Forum (IBLF). In this role, he led initiatives that addressed diverse responsible business issues, helping corporations integrate environmental considerations into their operations. Earlier in his career, Steve founded and managed a successful retail sports equipment business in Canada, showcasing his entrepreneurial and managerial acumen.
Contributions to Climate Change Mitigation
Steve’s contributions to mitigating climate change are significant and multifaceted:
Advancing Corporate Sustainability: Through his leadership of the UN Global Compact Network UK, Steve has influenced numerous companies to adopt sustainability principles, integrating climate action into their core strategies.
Global Policy Advocacy: As a UN Global Compact Board member, Steve has contributed to shaping policies that encourage corporate accountability and climate action worldwide.
Promoting Collaboration: Steve has fostered partnerships between businesses, civil society, and governments to achieve measurable progress on climate initiatives.
Education and Awareness: He has been instrumental in creating platforms for dialogue and education, ensuring that companies understand their environmental impact and adopt science-based targets.
Reasons for Nomination
Steve’s sustained commitment to corporate sustainability and his strategic leadership in advancing the SDGs make him deserving of the Climate Country Leader Award. His work has empowered businesses to transition to low-carbon operations, resulting in tangible environmental and societal benefits.
Looking forward, Steve’s role in addressing climate change will remain crucial. He is well-positioned to guide companies in accelerating their net-zero ambitions and expanding the reach of sustainable business practices. Steve’s leadership will continue to inspire innovation, collaboration, and systemic change in combating the climate crisis.
This Post was submitted by Climate Scorecard UK Country Manager Cesar Da Silva.