José María Figueres Olsen
Former President of Costa Rica, Co-Founder Ocean Unite
José María Figueres served as President of Costa Rica and created a comprehensive national development strategy combining sound macroeconomic policies, strategic investments in human development, and a strong alliance with nature.
"Climate change is the ultimate challenge"
Add to my shortlistTopics
- Sustainable Economic Development
- The Economic Opportunity in Addressing Climate Change
- Attracting Foreign Investment
- Innovation and Competitiveness
- Leadership
Languages
He is fluent in English and Spanish.
How he presents
José María Figueres is recognised as a world-class speaker and moderator. His inspirational presentations are both well researched and compelling.
Publications
- Key Elements for a 2020 Competitiveness Agenda in the Americas
- Remarkable Events in Central America: International Perspectives on Sustainability
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In Detail
After years of public service, José María joined the Management Board of the World Economic Forum and was appointed its first CEO. He was the chairperson of the Carbon War Room, created by Sir Richard Branson, later also becoming its chief executive. José María helped launch the Global Ocean Commission and became its Co-Chair together with David Miliband and Trevor Manuel. Now as Co-Chair of Ocean Unite he has taken on the task to chart a way forward for the high seas; to identify challenges and threats, and highlight reforms that will allow the ocean to be managed effectively, productively and sustainably for the maximum benefit to humankind. He also serves on the board of Rocky Mountain Institute - Carbon War Room.
WHAT he OFFERS YOU
José María is involved in the search for solutions to global challenges and offers a truly unique perspective into the world of business, international affairs and development. He speaks knowledgeably and passionately about how changes in the world can be brought about through innovation and principled leadership.
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Recent Reviews
Leave a reviewInternational Youth Gathering
José María Figueres gave a really powerful speech with content totally related to the topic of the event. He interacted with the audience really well, they really liked him.
Wealth Creation Summit
José María Figueres was excellent. He is very engaging and approachable and he had great content. He is a people’s person which endeared the audience to him.