Tokyo-based global financial group, Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG), has strengthened its sustainability leadership with the appointment of Stephen Jennings as the Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) for its EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) region. The move underscores MUFG’s commitment to accelerating the energy transition and promoting sustainable finance across its global operations.
A Veteran in Renewable Energy Finance Takes Charge
Stephen Jennings, a seasoned expert in renewable energy finance, will now lead MUFG EMEA’s sustainability strategy, focusing on supporting clients through their energy transition journeys. In his expanded role, Jennings will:
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Chair the Sustainability Committee
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Oversee the execution of the EMEA sustainability roadmap
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Coordinate sustainability efforts across MUFG Group companies in the region
Jennings, who joined MUFG in 2008, will continue to serve as Head of Energy Structured Finance, EMEA, and Head of the Sustainable Business Division, EMEA. Prior to MUFG, he held leadership roles at Barclays, including Head of Renewables Project Finance.
Strengthening MUFG’s Global Sustainability Ambitions
The appointment comes on the heels of MUFG’s bold sustainability push, including the revision of its sustainable finance goal from ¥35 trillion to ¥100 trillion (USD $691 billion) by 2030. This strategic realignment reflects the group’s dedication to climate action, ESG integration, and support for sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Hideaki Takase, MUFG Group Chief Strategy Officer, commented:
“Sustainability remains a core component of MUFG’s business plan. The appointment of a Chief Sustainability Officer for EMEA further demonstrates our global commitment to social and environmental progress.”
Cathryn Kelly Appointed Deputy Chief Sustainability Officer for EMEA
In a parallel leadership move, Cathryn Kelly, currently Head of MUFG’s Credit Strategy Group, has been appointed as Deputy Chief Sustainability Officer for EMEA, while retaining her current responsibilities. Kelly has been with MUFG since 2009 and brings a robust background in enterprise risk management.
Hide Yamamura, EMEA Regional CEO and MUFG Group Chief Strategy Officer, added:
“Appointing Stephen and Cathryn shows our commitment to accelerating our sustainability progress, not just within MUFG but also in collaboration with our stakeholders throughout the EMEA region.”
