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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.

Highlights

Jan 17 · hbs.edu
Podcast - Business & Environment - Harvard Business School
Dec 11 · hbs.edu
Rebecca M. Henderson - Faculty & Research
Nov 19 · library.hbs.edu
Rebecca M. Henderson | Working Knowledge - Baker Library
Boardroom Diversity & Mentorship | Rebecca Henderson
Dec 16 · hbs.edu
Working with Companies and Investors to Address Climate Change

Related Questions

What are some of Rebecca Henderson's most notable contributions to Ceres, Inc?
How has Rebecca Henderson's experience at Harvard Business School influenced her work at Ceres?
What are the main challenges Rebecca Henderson faces in her role at Ceres?
How does Rebecca Henderson's research on innovation and organizational change apply to her work at Ceres?
What impact has Rebecca Henderson's work had on corporate sustainability practices?
Rebecca Henderson
Rebecca Henderson, photo 1
Rebecca Henderson, photo 2
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Location

Somerville, Massachusetts, United States