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Rebecca Henderson
John and Natty McArthur University Professor at Harvard University
Rebecca Henderson is a prominent academic and business leader, currently serving as the John and Natty McArthur University Professor at Harvard Business School. She has extensive experience in the intersection of business and sustainability, focusing on how the private sector can contribute to building a sustainable economy. Henderson is also a board member of Ceres, Inc., a nonprofit organization that advocates for sustainability in business practices.
Education and Academic Background
- Bachelor's Degree: Mechanical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
- PhD: Business Economics from Harvard University.
- Prior to her current position at Harvard, she was a professor at MIT's Sloan School of Management.
Professional Experience
- Board Memberships: In addition to her role at Ceres, Henderson serves on the boards of Amgen and IDEXX Laboratories. She has over 25 years of experience on major corporate boards.
- Research Focus: Her research explores organizational change, innovation, and the role of businesses in addressing climate change and sustainability challenges.
Publications and Contributions
Henderson has authored several influential publications, including:
- Reimagining Capitalism in a World on Fire, which discusses how capitalism can be restructured to address pressing global challenges.
- Leading Sustainable Change: An Organizational Perspective.
- Accelerating Energy Innovation: Lessons from Multiple Sectors.
Recognition
In 2019, she was named one of the "Outstanding Directors of the Year" by the Financial Times, highlighting her contributions to corporate governance and sustainability.
Teaching
Henderson teaches a popular MBA course titled "Reimagining Capitalism," which emphasizes the need for businesses to adapt to social and environmental challenges. This course has significantly grown in popularity, reflecting her influence on future business leaders.
Personal Insights
Rebecca Henderson advocates for integrating sustainability into corporate strategies and emphasizes the importance of aligning investor interests with sustainable practices. She believes that a collaborative approach between businesses and governments is essential for meaningful progress in addressing climate change.
In summary, Rebecca Henderson is a leading figure in promoting sustainable business practices through her academic work, board memberships, and publications, positioning herself as a key influencer in rethinking capitalism for a sustainable future.
