UK chief climate advisor to become Carbon Trust chief executive

After six years of service as chief executive of the Climate Change Committee, Chris Stark has announced he will be stepping down to take on the role of chief executive of the Carbon Trust.

He will join the global climate consultancy 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.

Well-respected in the industry, Chris has advised UK governments for over a decade, including in his work at the Climate Change Committee since 2018. There 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.”

Chair of the Carbon Trust’s Board, Julia King Baroness Brown of Cambridge, said:

“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.”

Simon McWhirter, deputy chief executive of UK Green Building Council, said:

“Chris Stark’s refreshing vigour and candid approach has been a real beacon in the crucial CCC role, as an exceptional champion for our sustainable future over an immensely challenging period. His bravery in – tactfully – holding various Governments to account has helped empower and embolden the rest of us to sustain vital momentum towards a greener future.

“We’re delighted that Chris will remain a climate champion from his new position at The Carbon Trust is fantastic news for the entire climate sector – we look forward to his continued leadership and advocacy.”

Professor Piers Forster, Interim Chair of the Climate Change Committee, said:

“The Committee is incredibly grateful to Chris for his contribution over the last six years. His supportive leadership for the secretariat has helped us develop a world-class analytical team and deepened our analysis of the UK response to climate change. Acting as a powerful voice for the Committee, he has ensured our advice has been heard widely and with style.

“Chris has been a dedicated public servant, working with multiple Governments of the UK, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. He has ensured the Committee has provided apolitical, science-based advice of the highest quality. We have achieved a lot in his tenure. He has been great to work alongside and we wish him the best in his exciting next role.”