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- Leadership Transition: Celine Herweijer steps down as Group Chief Sustainability Officer after advancing HSBC’s net zero strategy, paving the way for Julian Wentzel’s interim appointment.
- Strategic Realignment: HSBC’s decision follows its October governance restructuring, reducing executive roles from 18 to 12 to streamline decision-making.
- Sustainability Commitment: HSBC reaffirms its focus on supporting the global net zero transition as a cornerstone of its business strategy.
Leadership Transition at HSBC
HSBC has announced the appointment of Julian Wentzel as Interim Group Chief Sustainability Officer, effective January 1, 2025. Wentzel, currently Head of Global Banking for the MENAT region, will report to Pam Kaur, Group CFO. This appointment follows Celine Herweijer‘s decision to step down on December 31, 2024, to pursue new opportunities.
Herweijer has been instrumental in advancing HSBC’s Net Zero by 2050 ambition, which was launched in 2020. During her tenure, she developed HSBC’s net zero strategy and established science-based policies and decarbonization targets for the bank’s financing portfolio. She also led the creation of HSBC’s first Net Zero Transition Plan, unveiled in January 2024.
Reflecting on Herweijer’s Impact
Celine expressed pride in her contributions, stating:
“I am deeply proud of what we have achieved at HSBC to support the global sustainability agenda. I believe that HSBC – as one of the world’s largest banks – has a key role to play in financing the transition across the global economy and supporting our customers. I wish Georges and the team all the best on the critical journey ahead as they shape the next stage of executing on HSBC’s net zero ambition.”
HSBC acknowledged her achievements, noting: “Celine has made a lasting impact on the Group and leaves with our thanks and best wishes for the future.”
Julian Wentzel’s Role and Expertise
Julian Wentzel brings over 25 years of global banking experience and a strong track record of navigating complex challenges. His leadership will be vital in sustaining HSBC’s sustainability goals and its commitment to the global transition to net zero. HSBC noted that Wentzel’s “strong client and commercial lens” will complement its sustainability agenda.
A recruitment process for a permanent Group Chief Sustainability Officer is underway, with further updates expected soon.
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