UN Global Compact Network USA Appoints Amanda Gardiner as New Executive Director

Meta's Former Head of ESG to Steer the U.S. Chapter of the World's Largest Corporate Sustainability Initiative 

NEW YORK, June 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Amanda Gardiner has been appointed Executive Director of the UN Global Compact Network USA (Network USA), the American chapter of the world's largest corporate sustainability initiative, by its Board of Directors.

Gardiner, a social impact leader whose career spans over two decades, has successfully led efforts to integrate sustainability into core business strategies and operations. Most recently, she served as the first Head of ESG at Meta, driving strategy and implementation efforts at a transformative time in the technology sector. Prior to Meta, Gardiner led corporate responsibility at both Verizon and Pearson, advising their boards and C-suites on embedding sustainability and social impact into business practices.

"After an extensive recruitment process and thoughtful deliberation, we are thrilled to welcome Amanda as the next Executive Director of UN Global Compact Network USA," said Ann Tracy, Network USA Board Chair and Chief Sustainability Officer at Colgate-Palmolive Company. "Her experience, strategic insight, collaborative leadership style, and deep understanding of the sustainability landscape made her the clear choice to guide the organization into its next phase of growth and engagement for all our current and future participants."

With participants representing more than 18% of U.S. GDP, Network USA has elevated its corporate programs, grown its team, and steadily expanded its network to nearly 1,000 signatories. Gardiner's appointment marks an inflection point as the organization seeks to enhance its programmatic offerings and establish deeper engagement with the U.S. private sector in driving the Ten Principles of the United Nations Global Compact forward.

"At this defining moment for business and sustainability globally, Network USA's role in supporting U.S. companies in a rapidly evolving and interconnected landscape is more important than ever," said Gardiner. "It is an honor to take on this position, and I look forward to working with our network participants, Board, and staff to advance sustainability initiatives, accelerate progress, and shape the future of responsible business leadership."

Her appointment comes at a milestone moment for the UN Global Compact, which celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2025. Focused on elevating the leadership of the U.S. private sector, Network USA supports companies on their sustainability journeys while fueling operational resilience, innovation, and business growth. By delivering actionable resources and guidance, Network USA puts American businesses at the forefront of global sustainability, reinforcing their role as leaders in responsible business.

About UN Global Compact Network USA  
UN Global Compact Network USA (Network USA) is the U.S. Chapter of the United Nations Global Compact, the largest corporate sustainability initiative in the world. Network USA is a powerful network of companies and stakeholders dedicated to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. By connecting partners with the resources of the greater UN, Network USA supports companies that are committed to fully integrating its principles of human rights, labor, environment, and anti-corruption into their business strategies and operations. To learn more, visit GlobalCompactUSA.org.  

SOURCE UN Global Compact Network USA