IKEA CEO Jesper Brodin may get the chance to run the UN division as a business

Brodin may have a chance, after the Swedish government announced him as its candidate To become the new United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) last Monday. If selected, Brodin’s career pivot will highlight a path all too rare among global CEOs: the move from business to a multilateral international organization. United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, The organization saysIt protects people forced to flee, provides emergency assistance in crises, and helps displaced people find a place to call home.

Although some businessmen, such as Donald Trump in the United States or Silvio Berlusconi in Italy, have entered national politics, none of them have gone on to head a major United Nations institution. UN jobs are usually reserved for career diplomats and politicians, while private sector leaders have been mostly absent from UN leadership.

(Alexander De Croo, The new head-designate of the United Nations Development ProgrammeAnd maybe it’s the closest. He started his career in Boston Consulting GroupHe remained there for several years before entering Belgian politics Like his father before himAnd he becomes Prime Minister. His wife is He is still a partner In the consulting company.)

“I was surprised to receive the nomination. This was not something I planned,” Brodin said. luck In a Zoom in Interview after the news broke. “But with my global experience leading IKEA in more than 40 countries, I believe I can provide valuable experience and leadership to the United Nations.”

Brodin’s experience in the private sector was also a major reason why the Swedish government nominated him. The Swedish Foreign Ministry said: “The United Nations system will be strengthened by a person with business experience, especially in light of the major challenges facing the United Nations now.” He said in a statement IKEA veteran endorsement.

Although this choice is rare, it is consistent with Brodin’s choice The stated mission of IKEA“, which was”To create a better everyday life for many people.”

Under Brodin’s management, IKEA has been involved in numerous UN and UNHCR projects globally. These programs include the training and skills program launched by IKEA for refugees, which has been implemented to date It reached more than 3,700 peopleIKEA is the retail arm that provides direct employment to refugees from Syria and, more recently, Ukraine, Brodin said. Brodin will step down as IKEA CEO in November.

The UN Secretary-General will make his choice for the Commission, and send the nominee to member states for confirmation, by the end of the year.

Ultimately, if Brodin is confirmed, it may be because a rational, commercial approach is simply what the UN needs now. The United Nations is in crisis and faces a Cash crisiswhich was exacerbated by Reduce funding for the Trump administration For the organization.

In light of this, Brodin’s track record of frugality at IKEA could be the real game changer if he is appointed.