Leadership update at ACCR

From January 2026, ACCR will adopt a co-leadership model, with Brynn O’Brien and Nick Kelly serving as co-CEOs. This deliberate and strategic evolution strengthens ACCR’s capacity to drive impact across our global footprint.

The world stands at a critical juncture. Current trajectories of global greenhouse gas emissions put us on a path toward temperatures that pose systemic risks. As an organisation dedicated to mitigating those risks - for investors, planetary systems, and people - our best work is collaborative, multi-jurisdictional, and focused on systems-level impact. A co-leadership model will enable us to achieve this more effectively.

Nick joined ACCR in July this year, leading ACCR’s multidisciplinary analytical and communications work. He brings experience at the intersection of climate, philanthropy, and legal strategy, with a background in legal practice, including as a barrister, in complex inquiries, public and environmental law, and public law teaching.

Howard Pender, Chair of ACCR, said:
“This change reflects ACCR’s commitment to strong, collaborative leadership as the organisation matures and tackles increasingly complex challenges. Brynn and Nick bring complementary skills and shared vision, and the board is confident this approach will position ACCR for even greater impact.”

Brynn O’Brien, Executive Director ACCR, said:
“I’m really excited about this next chapter of leadership with Nick. Co-leadership gives us the bandwidth and flexibility to take on more, stay connected across our work, and drive meaningful change in this crucial moment.”

Nick Kelly, incoming Co-CEO ACCR, said:
“I’ve been a huge fan of Brynn’s and ACCR’s work for years now. That view has been turbocharged since coming into the organisation earlier this year, so I couldn’t be more thrilled and humbled by the opportunity to work alongside Brynn to help ACCR have the impact the world needs in the second half of this critical decade.”