The World Green Building Council (WorldGBC) is thrilled to introduce a bold new wave of leadership following the results of its 2025 Board elections, announced at its Annual General Meeting on 30 June. With expertise spanning policy, sustainable finance, energy innovation, and strategic real estate development, these leaders are poised to help steer the movement for decarbonised, resilient and regenerative buildings into its next era of impact.
In addition, WorldGBC is proud to announce the appointment of Dr Matthew Bell, Global Leader for Climate Change and Sustainability Services at EY, as Chair of the Board of Directors, effective 1 July 2025. A widely respected strategist and thought leader in sustainability and business transformation, brings decades of experience advising governments and Fortune 500 companies on decarbonisation and long-term value creation.
Elected by WorldGBC’s global network of Green Building Councils, the incoming Board members are:
Returning to the Board for a new term are two formidable voices in regional leadership and equity:
The new Directors join: Michael Brooks, CEO of REALPAC; Faustine Delasalle, CEO Mission Possible Partnership; Sean Kidney, CEO Climate Bonds Initiative; and Johannes Kreißig, Executive Director, DGNB.
Together, this group represents a powerful alliance of change-makers who will guide WorldGBC’s mission at a moment when the world is demanding faster, deeper climate action and more inclusive solutions.
“This is more than a governance update — it’s a signal to the world,” said Cristina Gamboa, CEO of WorldGBC.
“Our new Board brings deep credibility and a spirit of collaboration that will strengthen our ability to align global ambition with on-the-ground delivery. From decarbonisation to resilience, from just transition to nature-based solutions — they are ready to help us lead from the front.”
Dr Matthew Bell, Chair of the WorldGBC Board of Directors; Global Leader, Climate Change and Sustainability Services, EY:
“Buildings sit at the heart of the climate and nature crises — but they’re also where the solutions scale. I’m honoured to serve as Chair of WorldGBC at a time when bold, systems-level leadership is essential. This network has the scale, credibility and vision to drive global impact — and I look forward to helping shape its next frontier.”
David Turk, Board Member; Former U.S. Deputy Secretary of Energy:
“Buildings are the sleeping giant of climate and energy policy. With the right leadership, they can drive massive gains in decarbonisation, resilience, and economic opportunity. I’m proud to join WorldGBC’s Board and help amplify the role of this powerful global network in delivering the solutions we urgently need.”
These appointments take effect on 1 July 2025, alongside newly confirmed Chairs and Vice Chairs across WorldGBC’s Regional Networks, Corporate Advisory Board, and CEO Network.
As WorldGBC intensifies its campaign to shape stronger national commitments ahead of COP30 and amplifies the voices of its 75+ GBCs and 48,000 members, this revitalised leadership team brings fresh energy and strategic vision to one of the most urgent transformations of our time.
Previously, the Board of Directors elected a new Executive Committee (10 June). The Chair has been elected for a two-year term and the rest for a one-year term starting 1 July 2025.
During the 10 June 2025 meeting, the Board of Directors made the following appointments for the Corporate Advisory Board (CAB), GBC CEO Network and across our five regional networks.
Corporate Advisory Board (CAB) (all for a for one-year term):
Africa:
Americas:
Asia Pacific:
Europe:
MENA:
On behalf of the network, we would like to thank the following leaders which are stepping down from the WorldGBC Board of Directors:
Read more about WorldGBC’s Board of Directors, Regional Leaders, Corporate Advisory Board, and GBC CEO Network, as well as their professional journeys. If you have any questions about the election process, please contact us at office@worldgbc.org.