Global hunt commences for PRI's new leadership as David Atkin resigns from CEO position
The Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) Announces CEO Transition and Future Plans
The Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), a global network of investors working towards a more sustainable financial system, has announced that current CEO David Atkin will be stepping down in 2026 after a decade of leadership. Atkin will remain in his post over the next year to support the transition and continue advancing PRI's strategic goals.
Founded in 2006 and supported by the United Nations, PRI now counts more than 5,000 signatories managing over $121 trillion in assets. Under Atkin's leadership, the organisation has undergone a period of rapid growth and structural change, strengthening its relationships across the asset owner community and reorganising its operating model to better serve signatories.
Atkin's vision and dedication have been transformative, according to PRI Board chair Conor Kehoe. Notably, Atkin led the development of PRI's 2024-27 strategy and oversaw the simplification of the organisation's reporting framework.
As PRI approaches its 20th anniversary in 2026, it is positioning itself to increase its global impact. The search for the new CEO will be led by a Board-appointed committee, chaired by Sharon Hendricks, and managed by executive search firm Korn Ferry.
Looking ahead, PRI plans to enhance its proposition with a refreshed digital platform, greater support for asset owners, and continued expansion into emerging markets. It also aims to reinforce the financial materiality of sustainability issues as it prepares for COP30 and its 20th anniversary in 2026.
Despite the upcoming transition, PRI remains committed to its mission of working with the global investment community to incorporate ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) considerations into investment decisions. As of August 2025, no publicly available details identify the new CEO or their start date following Atkin's departure in 2026.
[1] It is important to note that the available results do not mention a successor or transition timeline. [3] The other results focus on PRI governance and board elections but do not specify changes in the CEO position.
- The Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) plans to continue its work in the finance and business sectors, aiming to enhance its digital platform, increase support for asset owners, and expand into emerging markets.
- As PRI transitions to a new CEO in 2026, it will remain committed to incorporating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations into investment decisions, working towards a more sustainable financial system.
