IHRB thanks outgoing Trustees Deanna Kemp and Nicky Black, and welcomes new trustee Vasuki Shastry
24 July 2026
IHRB thanks outgoing Co-Chair and IHRB Trustee Deanna Kemp as she steps down from the IHRB Board. Deanna’s expertise and support to IHRB’s Executive and wider team have been invaluable, particularly for the organisation’s work on just transitions and responsible extractives.
We also thank IHRB Trustee Nicky Black, who is stepping down from the Board. Nicky has supported IHRB through several key milestones over the years and will continue to support the organisation as a member of our International Advisory Council.
IHRB is further delighted to announce that Vasuki Shastry has joined IHRB’s Board of Trustees. Vasuki was formerly a member of IHRB’s International Advisory Council. He is an author and senior advisor on ESG, strategic communications, and geopolitical risk for several public and private sector firms, and serves on the Advisory Council of Chatham House. He was previously the Global Head of Public Affairs and Sustainability at Standard Chartered Bank in London during a time of significant change for the financial sector in articulating and delivering ESG goals and its role in respecting human rights.
Daniel D’Ambrosio continues in his role as Chair.
Julia Batho, IHRB’s CEO, said:
“It is difficult to put into words my gratitude to Deanna for everything she has given to IHRB and to me personally. Deanna was first invited to become involved in IHRB’s work by John Ruggie, a reflection of the enormous contribution she would go on to make to what was then an emerging field. In the years since, her knowledge, governance rigour and leadership in this space, particularly in responsible extractives, have been an invaluable asset to IHRB. On behalf of the whole team, past and present, I want to express our heartfelt thanks for Deanna’s unwavering support, care and wise counsel to the organisation over so many years.”
"I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to Nicky Black, who has been a steadfast supporter of the organisation through periods of growth and change, always bringing sound judgement, warmth and a deep belief in IHRB’s work and mission. Nicky’s commitment to IHRB and her willingness to offer guidance and encouragement have meant a great deal to all of us. On behalf of the whole team, I want to thank her for her partnership, dedication and lasting contribution to IHRB.”
“I’m delighted that Vasuki Shastry has joined the board. He has been a trusted advisor to IHRB for many years, and brings a great deal of experience of corporate governance in practice, the very real challenges companies face, as well as strategic communications skills. His appointment will only strengthen IHRB’s governance oversight and strategic delivery going forward.”
Daniel D’Ambrosio, IHRB Chair of Trustees, said:
“It has been a privilege to work alongside Deanna and Nicky. Their genuine understanding of critical business and human rights issues alongside real-world experience has been greatly valued by the Board. We are excited to welcome Vasuki Shastry as a Trustee, and I look forward to working with him as we support IHRB to go from strength to strength under the leadership of Julia Batho and the wider team.”
Deanna Kemp, outgoing IHRB Co-Chair, said:
“As I step down, I wanted to say what an absolute privilege it has been to serve this powerhouse of an organisation. IHRB’s work is incredible. Globally, it is a difficult moment for business and human rights. Human rights due diligence – the backbone of the UN Guiding Principles – still needs to be embedded in everyday business practices. There is much work to do, which is why IHRB’s work continues to be so vital.”
“With Julia Batho as new CEO, and Dan D’Ambrosio continuing as Chair, IHRB is in excellent hands. The Board of Trustees appointed Julia with great confidence because she is the best person to lead the organisation in its next phase. I am excited to watch IHRB’s impact continue to grow.”
