Former Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, Co-Founder of Global Optimism & Recognised as one of the World’s Most Influential Leaders by Time Magazine
Christiana Figueres’ Biography:
Christiana Figueres is a globally respected environmental leader, climate strategist and sustainability speaker best known for the pivotal role she played in delivering the landmark Paris Agreement in 2015. As the former Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, Christiana united governments, businesses and global stakeholders behind one of the most significant international climate agreements in history. Her expertise in ESG investing, climate diplomacy and sustainable transformation has made her one of the world’s most sought-after keynote speakers. Through her speeches, Christiana provides practical guidance on embedding sustainability into business operations, from workplace culture and supply chain reform to long-term environmental strategy.
Beginning her career in sustainable development and international policy, Christiana founded the Center for Sustainable Development in the Americas in 1995. Her reputation as a climate negotiator and sustainability expert grew rapidly through her work with international organisations and advisory groups. She spearheaded the Clean Development Mechanism, gaining support from over 100 countries at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in 2005. Alongside her UN leadership roles, Christiana worked as Senior Adviser to C-Quest Capital, Principal Climate Change Advisor to ENDESA Latinoamérica and Vice-Chair of the Rating Committee of the Carbon Rating Agency.
Christiana is also a celebrated author and influential voice in climate advocacy. She co-authored ‘The Future We Choose: Surviving the Climate Crisis’ and co-founded Global Optimism in 2017. Her leadership has earned international recognition, including the Dan David Prize for Combating Climate Change, The Legion of Honour of France and Germany’s Great Cross of the Order of Merit. Fortune magazine named her among the World’s 50 Greatest Leaders, while Time magazine recognised her as one of the World’s Most Influential Leaders.
Beyond her policy achievements, Christiana serves on numerous influential boards, including Formula E and the International Olympic Committee. As convenor of Mission 2020 and Chair of the Advisory Board of The Lancet Countdown, she continues to shape global conversations surrounding climate action, sustainable business and the future of ESG leadership.
Why Hire Christiana Figueres?
Christiana Figueres is hired as a speaker for her unique ability to translate global climate policy into actionable business strategy. Drawing on decades of leadership at the highest levels of international climate negotiations, she delivers compelling talks on ESG investing, sustainability, resilience and climate innovation. Christiana combines optimism with practical insight, helping organisations understand how sustainability can drive long-term growth and transformation. Her acclaimed TED Talks, ‘The Inside Story of the Paris Climate Agreement’ and ‘The Case for Stubborn Optimism on Climate’, have further cemented her reputation as one of the world’s most influential voices on climate leadership. Her speeches inspire audiences to embrace meaningful change while navigating the future of responsible business leadership.
Christiana Figueres’ Career Highlights:
Here are some of the key milestones that define Christiana Figueres’ remarkable career:
- 2020 – Co-authored the internationally acclaimed publication ‘The Future We Choose: Surviving the Climate Crisis’.
- 2019 – Awarded the Dan David Prize for Combating Climate Change in recognition of her global environmental leadership.
- 2017 – Co-founded Global Optimism, a purpose-driven organisation focused on climate action and sustainable transformation.
- 2016 – Listed in Time Magazine’s Top 100 Influential Leaders in the World for her impact on climate diplomacy.
- 2016 – Recognised by Fortune magazine as one of the World’s 50 Greatest Leaders and the only female Latin American featured.
- 2016 – Continued international climate leadership following her tenure as Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.
- 2015 – Played a leading role in securing the historic Paris Agreement at the United Nations Climate Change Conference.
- 2015 – Named in Foreign Policy Magazine’s Top 100 Global Thinkers for her contribution to international sustainability policy.
- 2008 – Appointed Vice President of the Bureau of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, strengthening global climate governance.
- 1995 – Founded the Center for Sustainable Development in the Americas to advance sustainable development initiatives across the region.
Videos
Christiana Figueres’ Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“Christiana Figueres delivered one of the most inspiring and thought-provoking keynote speeches we have ever hosted. Combining global expertise with genuine optimism, she challenged our audience to rethink sustainability, leadership and long-term business resilience. Her insights into the Paris Climate Agreement and the future of climate action were both practical and deeply motivating. Christiana has a rare ability to make complex global issues feel relevant, actionable and empowering for every organisation in the room.” – David Simms
Speaking Topics
Christiana Figueres’ Official Keynote Topics:
- Environment & Sustainability
- International Relations & Geopolitics
- Climate Change
- Environmental, Social & Corporate Governance
How Much Does Christiana Figueres Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Christiana Figueres?
Christiana Figueres’ speaking fees typically reflect her exceptional career and international demand. Engagements vary depending on location, format, and duration; keynote appearances, conferences, and international events may command higher fees due to travel and preparation requirements.