As COP 28 begins in the United Arab Emirates, the Blavatnik School of Government is delighted to announce the appointment of its new Visiting Professor of Practice, Rachel Kyte. Rachel is Dean Emerita of The Fletcher School at Tufts University, the first woman to lead the United States’ oldest graduate-only school of global affairs, and brings with her a wealth of expertise in climate change and sustainable development.

Rachel joins the School following a career dedicated to bringing about policy solutions to the world’s most pressing global challenges. She has previously served as special representative of the UN secretary-general and chief executive officer of Sustainable Development for All, as well as holding roles including World Bank Group vice president and special envoy for climate change.

She now holds a number of key roles which aim to catalyse climate action. She is currently co-chair of the Voluntary Carbon Markets Integrity Initiative, is a member of the G20 Expert Group on MDB reform, as well as playing a leadership role at the World Economic Forum on trade, climate, energy and minerals.

Rachel Kyte said, “I am excited to join the Blavatnik School of Government at a time when governing in a climate emergency is something that challenges every leader at every level. The School has already shifted its curriculum in recognition of how climate affects everything. I am looking forward to being part of a team dedicated to today and tomorrow’s leaders as they are tested in unprecedented ways.”