Ellen MacArthur Foundation announces new CEO

Jamie Butterworth is to step down as the chief executive of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation (EMF), with Accenture's former managing director Andrew Morlet coming in as his replacement.


Butterworth, who joined the Foundation in 2009, will remain with the organisation until November before moving on to set up a new venture that will complement his predecessor’s work in accelerating the transition to a circular economy.

Mortlet, who was also previously a partner of McKinsey & Co, brings 25 years’ global experience in consulting to the role as well as expertise in large-scale programme design and delivery.

Dame Ellen MacArthur, who is the chair of the Board of Trustees, said: “I have worked closely with Andrew since he joined the Foundation as our business lead 18 months ago. During this time he has created and driven a really strong framework of activities and relationships that are now pushing the circular economy to the forefront of business agendas worldwide, and I am delighted that he has agreed to become our new CEO.

“At the same time, I cannot overstate Jamie’s role in shaping the Foundation and in successfully delivering on its mission and vision until now. He has done an amazing job and I am grateful that his new venture will be strongly linked to the circular economy.”

Clear framework

Butterworth said: “Andrew is the ideal person to be leading the Foundation in the next stage of its growth, having been instrumental in driving our business programmes to date and given his excellent track record in the world of business innovation.”

Mortlet added: “I am honoured to have been appointed CEO by the Board of Trustees and I am looking forward to maintaining the speed and quality of achievement that has been evident under Jamie’s leadership over the past four years. Jamie leaves a great team and a clear framework for driving the circular economy forward.”

Further information about Butterworth’s new venture will be revealed later this year.

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