Chris Stark, the UK’s chief climate change adviser, has been appointed as the new CEO of global climate consultancy, the Carbon Trust.

He will take over the role in Spring 2024 to lead the organisation as it drives accelerated climate action towards Net Zero.

This comes after the Carbon Trust’s CEO of over two decades, Tom Delay, announced he would step down in June last year.  

Chair of the Carbon Trust’s Board, Julia King Baroness Brown of Cambridge, said she was delighted to announce Chris’ appointment.

“Chris Stark has been a leader in the climate action space, both within the UK and globally. His approach has always been underpinned by a combination of pragmatism, integrity and openness. This is fully aligned with both the mission and values of the Carbon Trust, making Chris the right person to lead the organisation into its next stage of development.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Tom for his exceptional contribution to climate action over the last two decades at the helm of the Carbon Trust. He has led the organisation from its establishment, to becoming the highly impactful and respected organisation it is today.”

Chris, a world-renowned climate policy expert, has advised UK governments for over a decade, including in his most recent role as Chief Executive of the UK’s Climate Change Committee for the past six years.

He led independent advice on the UK’s Net Zero target, and the development of multiple pathways to ensure the whole economy could meet this target.

Chris has a wide breadth of experience, having previously led teams at the UK Treasury, the Department for Business, and the Scottish Government. As part of this, he specialised in the intersection between policy and business and, particularly, the role of the private sector in achieving the Net Zero transition.

In response to his appointment, Chris said, “I’m delighted to join Carbon Trust. Tackling climate change is my life’s work and I believe the Carbon Trust will continue to play a key role in that mission.

“The organisation has been a climate pioneer over the last 20 years, driving innovation in climate solutions and providing practical support to businesses, governments, and financial institutions to accelerate decarbonisation.

“I’m excited to lead the organisation in the next phase and grow the Carbon Trust’s positive impact even further.”