We’re delighted to announce that Kaya Axelsson has this week started a new role as Oxford Net Zero’s Director of Impact. She joins Dr Steve Smith MBE and Professor Sam Fankhauser, who will continue as Executive Director and Research Director, respectively.
Kaya will focus on increasing the impact of Oxford Net Zero’s research and engagement. This work has never been more important. We continue to see the impacts of climate change in the UK and around the world, and the idea of net zero itself faces pushback from powerful actors. As we move into our next phase as a programme, we are excited that Kaya will be using her fantastic leadership skills and networks to help us meet these challenges.
As Professor Sam Fankhauser explained,
“Kaya has been at the heart of Oxford Net Zero from the very beginning and instrumental to our success. As the focus has shifted from setting net zero goals to delivering them, we need her boundless energy to drive the net zero transition forward and see the job through.”
Dr Steve Smith added:
“What makes Oxford Net Zero so special is not just the quality research and the exciting team, but also the deep engagement with people and organisations who shape the global endeavour to end climate change. Kaya has demonstrated her ability to do this across her work influencing corporations, the UN, and governments worldwide. I’m delighted that we can recognise her ongoing work with this new role.”
Reflecting on her appointment, Kaya said:
“I’m thrilled to be stepping into the role of Impact Director at Oxford Net Zero. It’s a privilege to do this alongside a team whose curiosity, generosity and determination have made our work matter far beyond academia. For me, impact is about ensuring great research doesn’t end with evidence – that it helps shape the decisions, partnerships and policies that make a net zero future possible.”
Huge congratulations to Kaya, and we look forward to continuing our work together.
Photo by Martin Martz on Unsplash.
