IKEA Appoints Erika Intiso as Chief Sustainability Officer

Ingka Group, the largest IKEA retailer accounting for more than 85% of the chain’s retail sales, announced today the appointment of Erika Intiso as its new Chief Sustainability Officer, with responsibility for leading the group’s sustainability agenda, and further integrating sustainability into business decisions and operations.

Intiso will take on her new role in November, after more than 15 years in the IKEA ecosystem in a series of roles spanning retail, commercial development and business transformation, including most recently serving as CEO and Chief Sustainability Officer for IKEA Czechia, Hungary, and Slovakia

Ulrika Biesèrt, Group People, Sustainability and Communication Manager, Ingka Group, said:

“Sustainability is integrated into how we operate and develop our business. Erika brings extensive experience from across IKEA and a proven track record of advancing sustainability while delivering business results. As we take the next leap in integrating sustainability across our business, her leadership will be instrumental in driving further action.”

Intiso said:

“Working across the IKEA value chain has proven to me that sustainability is a powerful engine for business growth. I know firsthand how vital it is to translate our ambitions into tangible actions that benefit our customers, co-workers, and communities.”

Intiso will succeed Karen Pflug in the role. Pflug announced that she will be stepping down after more than 5 years as CSO, working on initiatives including the expansion of IKEA’s circular services such as Buyback & Resell, reaching nearly 95% renewable electricity consumption, and exceeding a 70% absolute emissions reduction from operations, on a 2016 basis. Pflug said that she will remain with the company until the end of the year to ensure a smooth transition.

Biesèrt added:

“I want to thank Karen for the important contribution she has made over the past five years. She has played a key role in shaping our sustainability work and leaves a strong foundation that we can continue to build on.”