The ESCP Professor has been recognised as one of the world’s most promising ‘Young Global Leaders’ under the age of 40.

Professor Philip Meissner has been named to the 2022 Class of Young Global Leaders (YGLs), which according to the World Economic Forum gathers “the world’s most driven researchers, innovative entrepreneurs, activists and promising political leaders between the ages of 30 and 40.” “The leaders celebrated today have demonstrated exceptional ingenuity and vision across their fields,” said Mariah Levin, Head of the Forum of Young Global Leaders. “While they represent diverse sectors, regions and issue areas, they are united in their commitment to lead towards a more inclusive and sustainable world.”

The Forum of Young Global Leaders is an independent non-profit foundation bringing together diverse and dynamic leaders for a personalized three-year leadership programme. Its aim is to cultivate a community of responsible leaders to build bridges across sectors, regions, ideologies, and identities, and to develop ambitious, collaborative projects to tackle the global challenges that others shy away from. Members will take part in a three-year leadership development programme that will help them reach their next level of impact. The programme offers executive education courses, expeditions and opportunities to collaborate and test ideas with a trusted network of peers. “Philip Meissner embodies ESCP Business School’s values and with his pioneering spirit, continues to inspire and educate purpose-driven leaders. Being named a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader is an extraordinary honour and recognition for his work,” commented ESCP Executive President and Dean, Professor Frank Bournois.

A very select group of individuals

As a co-founder and the Director of the European Center for Digital Competitiveness, Professor Meissner’s mission is to help bring Europe to the forefront of future technologies and contribute to the continent’s transformation towards a digital economy. The research carried out by the Chair of Strategic Management and Decision Making he holds at ESCP Business School combines the fields of strategy, technology, and psychology. It focuses on the interplay of artificial intelligence and human decision-makers in the strategic process. “The YGL community is active in today’s most exciting fields, from the circular economy to digital governance, to contribute towards positive change in the world,” added Professor Meissner. “As part of this inspiring community, I am excited to make a contribution towards a more peaceful and diverse society, as well as technological progress in Europe.”

With 1,400 members and alumni representing over 120 nationalities, YGLs head governments and Fortune 500 companies, are recipients of Nobel Prizes and Grammy Awards, and serve as UN Goodwill Ambassadors. Each year, thousands of candidates are publicly nominated. Candidates are then evaluated by a selection committee, which chooses no more than 120 new members each year (109 this year). Notable members of the Forum of Young Global Leaders include German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and French President Emmanuel Macron. “I am delighted and honoured to congratulate Philip on this highly prestigious award, recognising his cumulative contributions on digital competitiveness. This recognition enhances the dynamic research culture of ESCP that promotes and encourages innovative and impactful research,” said ESCP Associate Dean for Research Pramuan Bunkanwanicha.

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