Former CBI president Paul Drechsler, has been named as Chairman of the International Chamber of Commerce in the UK, replacing Sir Michael Rake who is standing down at the end of this year.
His appointment comes at a critical time as the country emerges from the Covid-19 crisis and re-builds its international trade relations, all within the context of the need for accelerated progress towards the net-zero emissions target and a different approach to economic growth.
John Denton, Secretary General of ICC, said: “I’m delighted to be working with Paul and look forward seeing ICC United Kingdom continue to grow its contribution to shaping the world business agenda.
“It’s a crucial period to be working with the UK, as the country expands its role and ambitions on the international stage. Sir Michael has been pivotal in helping strengthen the voice of ICC in the UK over the past five years and I wish him all the best.”
Drechsler said he looked forward to working on “an exciting agenda following an unprecedented global health and economic crisis; a time that calls for the unique global collaboration capability of the ICC.”.
The ICC plays a key role in representing the voice of businesses at intergovernmental level – at the United Nations, G20 and World Trade Organisation. But also, on a national level, acting as an impartial convener for UK business organisations, consumers, unions, NGOs and academics, and providing a forum to build consensus and collaborative action.