Worldwide hunt commences for PRI's next CEO following David Atkin's resignation
Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) Announces CEO Transition and Future Plans
The Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), a leading global network of investors committed to integrating ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors into their investment decisions, has announced that its current CEO, David Atkin, will be stepping down in 2026.
David Atkin's tenure has been extended by six months beyond its original four-year term, and he will remain in post over the next year to support the transition. The search for his successor is now underway, with a Board-appointed committee leading the recruitment process. Executive search firm Korn Ferry has been appointed to manage this process.
Conor Kehoe, the PRI Board chair, has praised Atkin's leadership, stating that it has been transformative. Under Atkin's leadership, the PRI has strengthened its relationships across the asset owner community, simplified its reporting framework, reorganised its operating model, and developed its 2024-27 strategy. The PRI has also expanded into emerging markets and now has over 5,000 signatories managing over $121trn in assets.
The PRI aims to provide greater support for asset owners and plans to reinforce the financial materiality of sustainability issues. It also intends to continue its expansion into emerging markets and enhance its proposition with a refreshed digital platform. The PRI is preparing for COP30 and its 20th anniversary in 2026.
As of July 2025, no publicly available information explicitly names the next CEO or specifies when their tenure will begin after Atkin's step down. The PRI is likely to announce this leadership transition closer to 2026 with appropriate communication, as recommended for CEO transitions.
Sharon Hendricks, vice chair of the CalSTRS Investment Committee, will chair the committee responsible for finding Atkin's successor. The PRI is committed to ensuring a seamless handover during this transition period.
The PRI was founded in 2006 and is supported by the United Nations. It has been instrumental in promoting responsible investing and has played a significant role in shaping the global investment landscape. As it moves forward, the PRI remains dedicated to its mission of creating a sustainable global financial system.
The Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), in its mission to create a sustainable global financial system, is seeking a new CEO to succeed David Atkin, who is stepping down in 2026. This transition will involve a focus on finance and business matters, as the PRI aims to provide greater support for asset owners, reinforce the financial materiality of sustainability issues, and expand its reach into emerging markets.
