UN Foundation names Ericsson CEO board member

Ericsson President and CEO Hans Vestberg is seen in this undated photo. [Provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The United Nations Foundation Board has appointed Ericsson President and CEO Hans Vestberg as a new member, recognizing his leadership and commitment to global sustainable development.

Under Vestberg's leadership, Ericsson has reinforced its role as the leading advocate of "technology for good".

In making the announcement, the board recognized that Vestberg has demonstrated a deep personal commitment to fighting extreme poverty on a global scale, and that under his leadership Ericsson has supported important global development and social change initiatives.

With the appointment, the UN Foundation embraces the value that Vestberg brings to the board as with his global business acumen, and insights in how information and communication technology will be a catalyst of transformative change worldwide.

"The UN Foundation will benefit from Hans' perspective as a leader in global business who uses his position to help people," said Foundation Founder and Board Chair, Ted Turner. "Hans recognizes the amazing opportunities we have to connect people around the globe to support the work of the United Nations, and to use connectivity to create a better world."

Vestberg, who joined Ericsson in 1988, has had significant international experience, including Ericsson positions in Brazil, China, Mexico, and the United States. Prior to becoming CEO, he served as Ericsson's Chief Financial Officer. Under his direction, Ericsson has become the main driver toward the Networked Society, where connectivity is the fuel of human progress.

Vestberg's leadership extends beyond his capacity at Ericsson. He is a leading voice on the global stage in support of effective international development goals. He has spoken out as an advocate of the Millennium Development Goals, and for the potential of mobile technology and broadband to tackle some of the world's most compelling challenges, including poverty, health, education and climate change.

"It gives me a unique opportunity to help lead an organization that connects thousands of partners to support the work of the United Nations to improve health, increase prosperity, empower girls and women, and address climate change," said Vestberg. "There has never been a more important time to come together to address these challenges, and I look forward to working alongside my fellow board members and with UN partners to drive sustainable development."

The UN Foundation's Board of Directors includes some of the most influential leaders in the world, whose pioneering work supports the UN's vision of a peaceful, prosperous and just world.