Communication Department Archives

The USCIB Foundation and the United Nations Foundation’s Better World Campaign hosted US Business & the United Nations: UN Procurement Opportunities on October 8 in New York. The working lunch explored domestic job creation opportunities for US companies and featured remarks from Ambassador Jeff Bartos, US Representative for UN Management and Reform. 

Following opening remarks from Peter Yeo, President of the Better World Campaign, Norine Kennedy, Executive Director of The USCIB Foundation, moderated an expert panel that explored the cooperation of US businesses and the UN, focusing on UN procurement opportunities for American companies. Panelists included Sayra Partida, Program Analyst, US Mission to the United Nations, USCIB’s Digital Governance Working Group Co-Chair Howard Wachtel, Senior Director, Head of UN and International Organizations Policy, Microsoft, Harry Chen, Senior Director Innovation and Partnerships, Manhattan Chamber of Commerce, and Ekrem Sarper, Head of International Public Policy, Cigna Healthcare.  

Last year, US companies received more than two billion dollars in UN contracts, more than any other country, highlighting the significant opportunities for US businesses of all sectors and sizes to engage with the UN. Kennedy stated that the value proposition for the UN to work with US business went beyond the economic benefit, given the leadership of US companies when it comes to innovation and responsible business conduct.  

 

Michael Lebovitz, Senior Vice President, International Tax at USCIB, provided his expertise in a Bloomberg Daily Tax Report article, US Companies Fear Fallout From Global Minimum Tax Cliff Edge, published October 13. In the article, Lebovitz noted that “Countries often have a defined schedule when they can enact legislation. Business recognizes that and respects the process. It’s when politics starts getting in the way that it becomes troublesome,” highlighting growing uncertainty and the risk that companies will have to provide for Pillar Two taxes on their financial statements due to delayed implementation.  

The full article is available here.  

USCIB convened a Tax Committee meeting on October 8, hosted by USCIB member General Mills at the company’s Minneapolis headquarters. The Tax Committee meeting featured remarks from Rebecca Burch, Deputy Assistant Secretary International Affairs, on the latest developments in the ongoing negotiations on the taxation of the digital economy. Paul Flignor from member firm DLA Piper spoke on emerging transfer pricing issues associated with stock-based compensation. Tom Roesser from member company Microsoft and Michael Lebovitz, Senior Vice President, International Tax Policy at USCIB, read out from the fifth session of the UN Framework Tax Convention negotiations and provided updates on recent developments. Cesare Silvani from member firm Maisto e Associati updated the committee on the EU Tax Simplification Omnibus’ recent developments.  

Later that day, USCIB’s Tax and Customs Committees held a joint meeting, covering common policy issues overlapping tax and customs. Flignor and Jeremy Klein (DLA Piper), and Michael Rousek, Vice President, Customs and Trade Facilitation at USCIB, discussed the arm’s length standard and the definitional challenges between tax and customs. Arnaud Fendler (ICC) and Rousek presented the International Chamber of Commerce Policy Report on Transfer Pricing and Customs Valuation. Flignor, Klein, and Rousek wrapped up the meeting with an overview of the practical issues in transfer pricing and customs enforcement.  

This week, USCIB led a delegation of a dozen members to OECD Trade Week, a full five days of conversations about trade and China as part of the semi-annual OECD Trade Committee plenary, the OECD Global Forum on Trade, a B7-Business at OECD (BIAC) Critical Minerals Dialogue, a Workshop on Technology Transfer, a China Expert Group Consultation, and OECD accession discussions.  

The week also included a member breakfast with US Ambassador to the OECD John Hurley to discuss the role of the OECD in advancing US business interests. USCIB also co-hosted an intimate Trade Committee dinner with the US Deputy Chief or Mission Rebecca Neff, the OECD Ambassadors to Japan and Sweden, and senior US, Norwegian and OECD trade officials. 

Members were featured speakers at all of the discussions in Paris, sharing practical perspectives on the challenges of: diversifying critical mineral supply chains; competing against China’s subsidies, industrial policies and forced technology transfers; and developing best practices for diffusing technology/AI to emerging economies. OECD Ambassadors and trade officials were thrilled with the business delegations’ advice and engagement.  

Kudos to the full USCIB delegation for sharing insights, with particular acknowledgement to Kenan Arkann (JP Morgan) and Carol Andrews (Microsoft) for presenting on critical mineral supply chains, to USCIB board member and Food and Agriculture Committee Chair Alejandra Castro (Bayer) and Jason Bernstein (ACC) for addressing technology transfer, to Lisa Schroeter (Dow), David Boman (Intuitive Surgical), and Ari Sulby (SIA) for addressing China excess capacity and NMPPs, and USCIB Senior Vice President for Trade, Investment and Digital Policy Alice Slayton Clark for moderating a critical minerals panel on financing.  

OECD Trade Week continues through tomorrow, October 9. Stay tuned for a full recap of USCIB’s activities at the OECD next week. 

ATA Carnets allow duty-free and tax-free temporary imports and exports of goods

Washington, DC, October 1, 2026—The United States Council for International Business (USCIB) congratulates Keith Sonderling on his confirmation as United States Labor Secretary. Prior to this appointment, Sonderling served as the Acting Labor Secretary, as well as Deputy Secretary of Labor.  

As the official US Employer Representative to the International Labour Organization, USCIB negotiates directly with governments, including with the US government, to help shape standards that are conducive to US business success globally. 

“USCIB welcomes Keith Sonderling as Labor Secretary,” said Whitney Baird, President and CEO at USCIB. “USCIB engages closely with the US Department of Labor and we have a long-standing productive relationship with Secretary Sonderling. We look forward to continuing this partnership to champion labor relations globally for both US businesses and workers.” 

About USCIB  

The United States Council for International Business (USCIB) powers the success of US business across the globe. Our members include US-based companies and professional services firms from every sector of the economy, with operations in every region of the world. As the US affiliate of leading international business organizations including Business at OECD (BIAC), the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), and the International Organisation of Employers (IOE), USCIB advances the US business perspective to policymakers and regulatory authorities worldwide and works to facilitate commerce, support sustainable development, and build trust in multilateral systems. USCIB is also the national guaranteeing and issuing association for ATA Carnets, a unified international customs document that allows for the temporary import and export of various types of goods into a foreign country without paying duties or taxes. Learn more at www.uscib.org.  

Michael Lebovitz, Senior Vice President, International Tax at USCIB, provided his expertise in a Bloomberg Law article, EU Debates Locking US Companies Out of Corporate Tax Streamline, published on September 29. In the article, Lebovitz notes that not providing US ultimate parent entities an exemption creates “unnecessary compliance and a confusing layer of complexity.”

The full article is available here with a subscription to Bloomberg.

New York, NY, September 28, 2026 — The United States Council for International Business (USCIB) is pleased to announce that Ravi Aurora, Senior Vice President, International Government Affairs at Mastercard, is a new Vice Chair of the organization. Aurora joined the USCIB Board of Directors in 2023.  

Dr. Joshua Walker, Chief International Affairs Officer at the US Chamber of Commerce, was also elected to the USCIB Board, replacing John Murphy, who is no longer at the Chamber. 

Re-elected Officers to the Board include: 

• Chair: Dorothy Attwood, General Counsel, International and Executive Vice President Global Public Policy & Privacy, The Walt Disney Company 
• Vice Chair: Gerald “Chip” Kunde, SVP, Corporate Affairs, Ferrero North America
• Secretary: Robert DeLaMater, Partner, Sullivan & Cromwell 
• Treasurer: Chad Withers, Vice President & Chief Tax Officer, Caterpillar 

Two Vice Chairs stepped down: Rick Johnston of Citi and Dan Konigsburg of KPMG.  

“We welcome Ravi Aurora as a new Vice Chair and Joshua Walker as our new Board member,” said Whitney Baird, President and CEO of USCIB. “As Vice Chair, Ravi will play a key leadership role, ensuring USCIB continues to power the success of US business across the globe. I also want to express my gratitude to Rick Johnston and Dan Konigsburg for their many years of dedication, leadership, and valuable contributions to USCIB. We wish them continued success in their future endeavors.” 

 About USCIB  

The United States Council for International Business (USCIB) powers the success of US business across the globe. Our members include US-based companies and professional services firms from every sector of the economy, with operations in every region of the world. As the US affiliate of leading international business organizations including Business at OECD (BIAC), the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), and the International Organisation of Employers (IOE), USCIB advances the US business perspective to policymakers and regulatory authorities worldwide and works to facilitate commerce, support sustainable development, and build trust in multilateral systems. USCIB is also the national guaranteeing and issuing association for ATA Carnets, a unified international customs document that allows for the temporary import and export of various types of goods into a foreign country without paying duties or taxes. Learn more at www.uscib.org. 

Position: Vice President Carnet Operations
Organization: United States Council for International Business
Reports to: COO & CFO
Location: New York City Office

THE OPPORTUNITY – About USCIB

The United States Council for International Business (USCIB) powers the success of US business across the globe. Our members include US-based companies and professional services firms from every sector of the economy, with operations in every region of the world. As the US affiliate of leading international business organizations including Business at OECD (BIAC), The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), and The International Organization of Employers (IOE), USCIB advances the US business perspective to policymakers and regulatory authorities worldwide and works to facilitate commerce, support sustainable development, and build trust in multilateral systems. USCIB is also the national guaranteeing and issuing association for ATA Carnets, a unified international customs document that allows for the temporary importation of various types of goods into a foreign country without paying duties or taxes.  Learn more at www.uscib.org.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Vice President, Carnet Operations & Claims is responsible for the day-to-day management and operational leadership of USCIB’s ATA Carnet program, including Carnet issuance, claims administration, customer service, compliance, guarantees and security, and related operational support functions. Reporting to the COO & CFO, the Vice President oversees the execution of USCIB’s Carnet strategy and operational objectives while supporting the COO & CFO in the overall management, growth, modernization, and performance of the program.

The Vice President manages USCIB’s Carnet operations across both internal activities and authorized service providers and plays a key role in USCIB’s resumption of direct issuing operations and implementation of eATA. Working closely with internal stakeholders, service providers, customs authorities, and international partners, the Vice President ensures the efficient, compliant, and customer-focused delivery of Carnet services.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Carnet Operations Leadership

• Manage the day-to-day operations of USCIB’s ATA Carnet program, including issuance, claims administration, customer service, compliance activities, guarantees and security, and related support functions.
• Support the COO & CFO in the overall management, strategic direction, modernization, growth, and performance of USCIB’s ATA Carnet program.
• Develop and implement operational goals, service standards, policies, procedures, and performance metrics to support program objectives.
• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, customer service, risk management, compliance, financial performance, and program effectiveness.
• Prepare operational reports, analyses, and recommendations regarding program performance, claims trends, issuance activity, service levels, and key operational risks.
• Ensure appropriate operational controls, documentation standards, and compliance procedures are maintained throughout carnet operations.

Issuance Operations

• Oversee all Carnet issuance activities conducted by USCIB and its authorized service providers.
• Develop, maintain, and continuously improve issuance procedures, service standards, quality controls, training programs, and operational workflows.
• Monitor issuance volumes, service levels, turnaround times, quality metrics, and customer satisfaction.
• Ensure consistent application of USCIB rules, policies, procedures, and service expectations across all issuing activities.

Claims Administration and Guarantee Management

• Oversee USCIB’s ATA Carnet claims function and provide leadership and direction to the Director of Claims and claims staff.
• Ensure effective administration of all claims activities, including claim review, investigation, management, documentation, resolution, recovery efforts, and reporting.
• Establish and maintain claims management procedures, internal controls, escalation protocols, and performance standards.
• Monitor claims exposure, recovery activity, aging, financial impacts, and operational trends and provide recommendations to the COO & CFO.
• Oversee USCIB’s member bond program and other security and guarantee arrangements supporting Carnet operations.
• Recommend and implement strategies to mitigate risk and reduce claims exposure.

Service Provider Support & Oversight

• Support the COO & CFO in the management of USCIB’s relationships with authorized Carnet service providers.
• Provide assistance to SPs for any Carnet clearance issues in US and foreign territories.
• Monitor service provider performance, operational compliance, reporting, customer service levels, and adherence to USCIB requirements and policies and procedures.
• Conduct audit and operational reviews and identify opportunities for improved efficiency, consistency, controls, and service delivery.

Digital Carnets and Process Modernization

• Support the COO & CFO in the operational implementation of USCIB’s eATA initiatives.
• Coordinate internal and external stakeholders to support successful implementation of digital carnet processes and technologies.
• Support change management, operational readiness, training, and stakeholder engagement associated with digital transformation initiatives.

Team Leadership and Staff Development

• Lead, develop, mentor, and supervise personnel responsible for Carnet issuance, claims administration, customer service, and related operational functions.
• Establish clear goals, performance expectations, accountability measures, and professional development plans for team members.
• Foster a customer-focused, collaborative, high-performance work environment.

QUALTIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, International Trade, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum 15 years of progressively responsible operational and leadership experience, including significant experience managing service operations, customer-facing programs, compliance functions, transaction processing operations, claims administration, or related business activities.
• Demonstrated ability to establish and manage operational policies, procedures, internal controls, service standards, quality assurance programs, performance metrics, and management reporting frameworks.
• Proven success recruiting, developing, coaching, and managing teams, including performance management, workforce planning, succession planning, and organizational development.
• Knowledge of ATA Carnets, temporary admission procedures, customs administration, international trade compliance, trade facilitation programs, or related fields preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to identify operational risks, strengthen internal controls, implement corrective actions, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Strong analytical, financial, and problem-solving skills with the ability to assess complex operational, financial, and compliance issues and develop practical solutions.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, resources, and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Exceptional communication, relationship-management, and stakeholder-engagement skills, with the ability to work effectively with customers, government agencies, customs authorities, international organizations, service providers, industry stakeholders, and senior executives.
• Strong customer-service orientation and commitment to delivering a high-quality client experience.
• Experience representing an organization in industry forums, conferences, trade associations, working groups, or stakeholder meetings preferred.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

The anticipated salary range for this position is $170,000 – $200,000, commensurate with qualifications, experience, and skills. In addition to base salary, employees may be eligible for a discretionary annual bonus based on individual and organizational performance.

USCIB offers a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance; a 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions; generous paid time off; and the opportunity to participate in pre-tax transportation and flexible spending account programs.

USCIB currently operates on a hybrid work schedule, with in-office work required Tuesday through Thursday and remote work available on Mondays and Fridays.

Apply Now

The position is open immediately. Candidates should e-mail a cover letter and resume by October 23, 2026. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents (green card holders). USCIB is not able to sponsor employment visas for this position.

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Thank you for your understanding.

At this year’s 81st United Nations General Assembly, USCIB advanced US business priorities through advocacy and engagement across UN reform, technology, health, e-commerce, and sustainable development. Our policy experts and members joined high-level discussions, showcases, receptions, and private roundtables through High-Level Week (HLW). Below, please find a summary of USCIB activities during UNGA81 and a short slideshow.

September 18

The USCIB Foundation: Building a Stronger UN With Business: Guidance to a New UN Secretary-General for the Next Chapter of UN80 Reform

The USCIB Foundation convened an expert roundtable with senior-level government and private sector representatives including: USCIB Vice Chair Ravi Aurora, Mastercard; USCIB members Morten Enggaard Rasmussen, Novonesis, and Josh Black, Microsoft; Ambassador Dan Negrea, US Representative to UN ECOSOC; Ambassador Archie Young, UK Ambassador to the UN General Assembly; Linda Maguire, Assistant Secretary-General, Assistant Administrator and Director of Bureau for Management Services, UNDP; John Denton, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC); David Lametti, Permanent Representative of Canada to the UN; Ambassador Brian Wallace, Permanent Representative of Jamaica to the UN; Ambassador Thomas Schnoll, OECD Mission to the UN; and Pradeep Kurukulasuriya, Executive Secretary, UN Capital Development Fund; and Whitney Baird, President and CEO at USCIB. USCIB’s UN Affairs team, Norine Kennedy and Emine Shinjatari joined as well, with Kennedy speaking alongside other experts. 

Discussions focused on business engagement in support of UN80 reform, post-2030 innovation, development, and impact with business, and recommendations for the next Secretary-General. 

WIPO Event: Intellectual Property Infrastructure and Artificial Intelligence: Building Trust in the Next Generation of Innovation and Creativity

Whitney Baird, President and CEO at USCIB gave opening remarks at a World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) event: “Intellectual Property Infrastructure & AI: Building Trust in the Next Generation of Innovation and Creativity.” Baird provided a high-level business and cross-sector perspective to the event, focusing her remarks on the importance of practical and interoperable approaches that support innovation, creativity, and trust across the AI ecosystem.

Held at Instituto Cervantes New York, this event convened creators, rights-holders, technology developers, UN Member States’ representatives, and other stakeholders, to exchange perspectives on the role of IP infrastructure in supporting trust, transparency, and collaboration while highlighting the value of multistakeholder engagement in addressing practical challenges affecting creative ecosystems.  

September 20 

Internet Society Lunch Reception: Building What Comes Next  

Whitney Baird joined Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary General of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), as well as Sally Wentworth and Brian Haberman of The Internet Society for a lunch discussion and networking around ensuring connectivity for all and cybersecurity, issues that are important to many USCIB member companies.  

Google’s AI for Global Progress: An Innovation Showcase 

USCIB member Google Cloud hosted “AI for Global Progress: An Innovation Showcase.” This high-level gathering united senior UN delegates, public sector decision-makers, agency CIOs, and global innovators to explore how real-world artificial intelligence is actively accelerating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and delivering measurable, mission critical impact in support of UN80 reform goals.  

USCIB’s Cheryl Miller participated in the event, which explored some of Google’s new projects and partnerships driven by AI and included an AI driven “builder” competition using USCIB member The LEGO Group’s famous bricks.

Goals House: Amazon Gold With Nia Tero, Amazon Aid, Amazon Gold Alliance  

USCIB’s Agnes Vinblad spoke at this roundtable at Goals House to discuss the expanding illicit gold mining in the Amazon. Gold sits at the intersection of some of the defining challenges of our time: climate change, biodiversity loss, Indigenous rights, public health, global supply chains, finance, and security. Nowhere is this more visible than in the Amazon, where rapidly expanding illicit gold mining is driving environmental degradation, threatening Indigenous territories, and exposing the connections between local impacts and global markets.  

Goals House: Voices for Humanity Reception  

USCIB’s Elizabeth Duncan joined a Goals House UNGA81 reception, hosted by Tom Fletcher, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.  Bringing together leaders from media, business, technology, philanthropy and civil society, this reception explored how storytelling, partnerships, and cultural influence can help keep humanitarian issues at the forefront of global conversation and support the 87 million people affected by crises worldwide. 

Building a Stronger UN with Business: Guidance to a New UN Secretary-General for the Next Chapter of UN80 Reform 

USCIB and member AB InBev, in collaboration with the Permanent Representation of Belgium to the United Nations, hosted a dinner discussion at the United Nations headquarters focused on the global reduction in the harmful use of alcohol.

USCIB members have learned that the biggest global health problems can’t be solved by governments alone – they require partnership with the private sector. Getting policymakers, public health experts, academics, and business leaders in one room is how evidence-based partnerships get scaled.  

September 21

Concordia and Foreign Policy: Geopolitics and Business, Navigating Growing Global Fragmentation 

USCIB’s Whitney Baird participated in a private roundtable, “Geopolitics and Business: Navigating Growing Global Fragmentation,” hosted by Concordia and Foreign Policy during the 2026 Concordia Annual Summit.

Later that day, Baird also took part in a Concordia and International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA) private, off-the-record roundtable, “Accelerating Action on Plastic Pollution,” also taking place at the 2026 Concordia Annual Summit. 

UN Office for Digital and Emerging Technologies: Digital Cooperation Day

USCIB’s Elizabeth Duncan and member Drew Bennett (The Walt Disney Company and a chair of USCIB’s Digital Policy Subcommittee) attended the United Nations Office for Digital and Emerging Technologies (ODET) Digital Cooperation Day. 

Concordia: Rethinking Global Health Finance and Mobilizing Private Capital for Health Outcomes  

USCIB’s Austin Blanton participated in, “Rethinking Global Health Finance: Mobilizing Private Capital for Health Outcomes,” a private roundtable hosted by Concordia and CrossBoundary Group at the 2026 Concordia Annual Summit.   

This roundtable convened investors, private sector players, development finance institutions, government and multilateral stakeholders, and health sector leaders to examine what is standing between the flow of private capital and health outcomes and to discuss the role and opportunity for blended finance to unlock private investment into global health, and to chart practical, collaborative pathways forward.  

Danish Foreign Ministry Event: Data Center Summit   

The energy equation on everyone’s mind this UNGA81: data centers, artificial intelligence, and increasing demands on grids across the world.  

USCIB’s Agnes Vinblad served as the Master of Ceremonies for a high-level event: the Data Center Summit – From Bottlenecks to Breakthroughs, convened by Denmark In New York, GRUNDFOS, Danish Industry, and Dansk Erhverv.   

This summit drew over 200 participants, with Vinblad guiding the audience through a packed program, including two panel discussions with senior experts and stakeholders.  

The summit explored the essential role of private sector expertise and leadership in solving the energy and natural resource challenges related to new and rapid energy demands due to data center development.   

USCIB and World Woman Foundation: The Women’s Future Agenda 

USCIB is proud to have teamed up with World Woman Foundation to co-host an intimate gathering of CEOs, global business leaders, investors, policymakers, philanthropists, and social impact leaders to discuss how AI, data, biotechnology, digital health, and emerging technologies can transform the way women’s health is researched, diagnosed, treated, and delivered. 

USCIB’s Kristen Kaufman interviewed Michelle Caruso-Cabrera, CNBC’s first International Correspondent and Latina Anchor, on geopolitics and trade in the Western Hemisphere, and on leadership lessons learned from her decades in high profile media and political positions. 

Devex Impact House: Session on The New Development Model

Emine Shinjatari represented USCIB at a Devex Impact House event on “The New Development Model” during UNGA81. USCIB member Kenvue’s Russell Dyer contributed his expertise to this event.  

This event also featured a conversation with UN Secretary-General Candidate María Fernanda Espinosa, and covered topics such as US priorities and development goals, the future of aid in conflict zones, advancing prevention and health system resilience, re-imagining global engagement, and lessons from global climate talks.  

Concordia Private Roundtable: Where Mission Meets Market

Jose Arroyo represented USCIB at “Where Mission Meets Market: Building the Next Generation of Public Service,” a private roundtable hosted by NobleReach Foundation during the Concordia Summit. USCIB member Salesforce’s Senior Vice President, Government & Global Public Affairs, Wendy Anderson, contributed her expertise to the discussion. 

The roundtable brought together leaders from business, government, philanthropy, and civil society to explore how to strengthen pathways between public service and the private sector. Discussions focused on developing mission-driven talent, fostering cross-sector collaboration, rebuilding institutional trust, and creating new opportunities for the next generation of leaders to contribute across government, industry, and academia. 

Solving the Paradox: Unlocking Long-Term Capital and Rebuilding Confidence in Green Infrastructure Projects

Courtney Brown represented USCIB at the Climate Finance Summit, hosted by the Consulate General of Denmark in New York, Impact Fund Denmark, European Energy, PenSam, and P+ during Climate Week NYC. Bringing together senior leaders from finance, government, and the renewable energy sector, this summit explored how blended finance, public-private partnerships, and new risk-sharing models can help restore investor confidence and unlock the long-term capital needed to accelerate the energy transition.

Concordia Private Roundtable: Reshoring, Resilience, and Renewal-Frontier Technologies and America’s Next Economy

USCIB’s Alice Slayton Clark joined a Concordia roundtable on “Reshoring, Resilience, and Renewal: Frontier Technologies and America’s Next Economy,” in partnership with the One Region, and part of the Concordia Annual Summit. 

The roundtable included experts from government, the private sector – including USCIB members ServiceNow, Salesforce, and Amazon Web Services (AWS) – and academia, to discuss the “intersection of technology, energy, workforce development, and industrial policy, with an emphasis on building resilient supply chains, expanding domestic production, and ensuring that the benefits of innovation are broadly shared to translate this moment of technological transformation into long-term economic growth and renewed industrial strength.” 

International Telecommunication Union’s Digital@UNGA Day  

USCIB’s Digital Policy team Cheryl Miller and Elizabeth Duncan took part in various events at ITU’s Digital@UNGA, which is a leading multistakeholder platform at the UNGA, catalyzing global dialogue, partnerships, innovation, and action to advance an inclusive digital future.  This year’s Digital@UNGA focused on: Digital solutions advancing sustainable development; Artificial intelligence, quantum, space, and emerging technologies for good; Partnerships accelerating inclusive digital transformation; and The Digital@UNGA Awards, recognizing outstanding leadership and innovation in shaping inclusive digital futures.  

Innovations in Water Stewardship in Latin America  

USCIB’s Agnes Vinblad attended the The Coca-Cola Company event “Innovations in Water – Stewardship in Latin America.” Hosted in the SDG Media Zone at the United Nations headquarters, the discussion brought together leaders from Coca-Cola Latin America, Global Water Challenge, and Kilimo and focused on how innovation, data, and cross-sector collaboration can help build more resilient watersheds and strengthen community water access across the region.  

Concordia / Vantor View From Above Reception

USCIB’s Whitney Baird and Alice Slayton Clark joined an UNGA81 reception and briefing hosted by Vantor CEO Dan Smoot. This reception was a part of the 2026 Concordia Annual Summit. 

Concordia Leadership Council Reception  

USCIB’s Whitney Baird and Kristen Edgreen Kaufman joined the Concordia Leadership Council Reception on the margins of the UNGA81 High-Level Week. The reception was hosted by John S. Koudounis, who serves as both President and CEO of Calamos Investments and is a member of the Concordia Leadership Council.

International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Reception at UNGA  

USCIB was proud to support the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) at its UNGA reception, celebrating nearly ten years since ICC received its Permanent Observer status to the United Nations and the critical role that the private sector has played in shaping UN activities since the establishment of ICC’s Permanent Observer Office. 

Goals House and ServiceNow: From Service to Leadership Dinner: Rethinking Talent for the AI Era

USCIB’s Kristen Edgreen Kaufman participated in a dinner discussion during Goals House UNGA, hosted by new USCIB member ServiceNow, as well as City Year. As AI transforms the world of work, the question is no longer just which jobs will change, but how the next generation of leaders will emerge. Hosted by Nick Tzitzon, Vice Chairman, ServiceNow, and AnnMaura Connolly, President, Voices for National Service and EVP, City Year, this dinner brought together leaders from business, government, education and civil society to explore how we develop the talent, resilience and adaptability needed to lead in a rapidly changing world, and create more inclusive pathways to opportunity.

Regen House: Women in Climate & Food

USCIB’s Natalie Bidner-Swehla joined the Women in Climate & Food NYC community at its flagship Climate Week NYC gathering, hosted by Regen House, the GAP Initiative at Virginia Tech, and Bonterra Organic Estates.

The event celebrated the growth of a network that has expanded from a simple WhatsApp thread into a vibrant community of more than 200 women working across food systems, agriculture, sustainability, and climate action.

September 22

USCIB and Walmart: Trust by Design: Building the Foundations for Global eCommerce  

USCIB hosted our annual Walmart-USCIB breakfast roundtable at UNGA. This year’s discussion, “Trust by Design: Building the Foundations for Global eCommerce,” focused on what policy, technology, and industry practices are needed for consumers, businesses, and governments to have confidence in rapidly expanding digital marketplaces. 

Whitney Baird, President and CEO at USCIB, provided opening remarks, covering topics such as the effects of AI on consumer trust. Manish Joneja, Senior Vice President at Walmart US, talked about how to build an e-commerce ecosystem that goes faster and reaches farther, while building trust.

Concordia and Salesforce: Government at Mission Speed: Scaling Responsible AI for Public Service and National Security

At the 2026 Concordia Annual Summit, USCIB’s Kristen Edgreen Kaufman engaged in a private roundtable co-hosted by USCIB member Salesforce on “Government at Mission Speed: Scaling Responsible AI for Public Service and National Security.”   

Goals House and McDonalds: Pathways That Work, Designing Routes to Economic Mobility   

As young people are facing increasingly complex pathways into work, employers and governments are facing challenges to modernize apprenticeship systems, vocational training, and labor market transitions. The need for policymakers, in collaboration with business leaders, to create clear, attainable pathways for economic opportunity has never been more urgent.
 
Within this wider landscape, USCIB member McDonald’s shared insights from its growing and legacy work in quality first jobs, skills, and career pathing. USCIB’s Jose Arroyo attended and served as spokesperson in the reporting back session. This Goals House UNGA event was organized by Suheily Natal Davis, Chief Sustainability, Social Impact & Inclusion Officer, McDonald’s; Maria Flynn, President and CEO, Jobs for the Future; and ManpowerGroup. 

Business Fights Poverty Global Goals Summit 2026  

USCIB’s UN lead Norine Kennedy attended the Business Fights Poverty Global Goals Summit 2026, hosted by Barclays and the Corporate Responsibility Initiative at Harvard Kennedy School. The Summit convened leaders and practitioners from business, government, and civil society to explore how we can build a future of resilience and shared prosperity. 

USCIB members Novonesis and Walmart hosted workshops at the Summit on how business can embed sustainability more deeply in the decade ahead and how people-centered business model design shape better outcomes, respectively. 

Devex Impact House: Convening on Accelerating Progress in Global Cardiometabolic Health 

USCIB’s Ashley Harrington joined a Devex Impact House convening on “Accelerating Progress in Global Cardiometabolic Health,” held during UNGA81 High-Level Week. The event was held in partnership with USCIB member Eli Lilly. The conversation focused on driving systemic action to expand access to cardiometabolic care in resource-limited settings. Global health leaders examined how primary care integration, sustained support, and cross-sector collaboration across governments, industry, and civil society can address the rising impact of cardiometabolic diseases. 

World Economic Forum: Powering Growth in the New Economy 

USCIB’s Whitney Baird participated in a World Economic Forum (WEF) event on the margins of High Level Week on “Powering Growth in the New Economy.”  

Concordia Annual Summit Session on Rewiring Global Trade: Resilience, Regionalization, and Risk 

USCIB’s Whitney Baird was on the main stage at Concordia’s Annual Summit at UNGA81, serving as a panelist on “Rewiring Global Trade: Resilience, Regionalization, and Risk.” Baird talked about the challenges US companies face and how they rely on coherent and seamless multilateral rules. Baird also touched on the World Trade Organization moratorium on application of customs duties on electronic transmissions, which lapsed at MC14 in March; the USMCA; and global rules governing data flows, data localization, source code, and cryptography. 

Baird was on the main stage with Hanne LeCount, Executive Director, Concordia (Moderator), Shubham Singhal, Chair, McKinsey Global Institute, and Jerry Todd, Head of National Development, Public Investment Fund (PIF). 

USCIB is proud to stand behind Concordia’s 2026 Annual Summit as a Programming Partner. 

Concordia Annual Summit Session on Service, Sacrifice, and Advocacy  

Military service does not end when the uniform comes off – for many, it evolves into a commitment to advocacy, public service, and strengthening the communities that stand behind those who serve. USCIB’s Kristen Edgreen Kaufman moderated a conversation with Jane Horton, Senior Advisor to the Secretary of War, and Dennis Serrette, EVP & Chief Development Officer, National Urban League, on how their personal experiences shaped their advocacy work and the role of public private partnerships in supporting service members. 

Regen House: The Power of Collaboration Along the Value Chain to Accelerate the Transition to a More Resilient Future

Nestle and USCIB member Walmart shared their journeys on how value creation can advance partnerships at an event on “The Power of Collaboration Along the Value Chain to Accelerate the Transition for a More Resilient Future,” held on the margins of UNGA81. USCIB’s Natalie Bidner-Swehla participated in this interactive session, which aimed to help initiate this journey for all players in the industry by highlighting the importance of a shared vision. 

Concordia Annual Summit  

USCIB’s Alison Hoiem and Alice Slayton Clark attended the Concordia Annual Summit where leaders from business, government, and civil society came together to discuss solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.  

As USCIB advocates for policies that help business drive economic growth globally, Concordia’s Summit provided an opportunity to exchange perspectives and strengthen relationships.  

Foreign Policy: World’s Toughest Job    

USCIB’s Emine Shinjatari attended a Foreign Policy event on the “World’s Toughest Job” during the UNGA81 High Level Week. Elizabeth Cousens, President and CEO of the UN Foundation, was a featured speaker at this event.

UN Foundation: Stepping Up the Fight Against Malaria 

USCIB’s Ashley Harrington and USCIB’s new global health policy lead Austin Blanton participated in a UN Foundation UNGA81 side-event, “Stepping Up the Fight to Beat Malaria,” and a reception honoring the 20th anniversary of  Nothing But Nets on September 22nd.  

The event included speakers from PAHO, CHAI, the Gates Foundation, the Global Fund for HIV, TB, and Malaria, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and the US Department of State.

The invite-only event featured two forward-looking panels: one on malaria elimination in Latin America and the Caribbean and another on scaling innovative solutions through multilateral partnerships and faith-based organizations. 

Goals House and Salesforce Roundtable: AI in Action: Partnerships for Better Public Services  

USCIB’s Whitney Baird participated in this exclusive lunch roundtable hosted by Salesforce, exploring what happens when AI moves beyond experimentation and starts transforming how people access essential services. Co-Hosted by USCIB member Salesforce’s Wendy Anderson, SVP, Government Affairs, and Laurent Monjole, Head of Global Government Affairs.

Bringing together leaders from government, technology and civil society, the lunch drew on case studies from organizations at the forefront of service delivery to examine the governance models and collaborative approaches helping to build more seamless experiences for citizens and scale trusted, AI-enabled services.

Concordia Annual Summit: Resources of the Americas: Building a More Secure Energy and Minerals Partnership

USCIB’s Alice Slayton Clark participated in this roundtable, held in partnership with Glencore, at the 2026 Concordia Annual Summit. This roundtable explored how the United States and countries across the Americas can strengthen cooperation on mining, critical minerals, energy, and the infrastructure required to bring resources to market.

Leaders from business and government discuss opportunities to mobilize investment, expand production and processing capacity, improve cross-border infrastructure, and leverage public-private partnerships and government financing to accelerate strategically important projects.

USCIB and International Agri-Food Network: Translating Climate Ambition Into Action Across Agrifood Value Chains 

During Climate Week NY and UNGA81 High-Level Week, USCIB and the International Agri-Food Network (IAFN) hosted a discussion on agriculture and agrifood systems as essential to global climate action. USCIB’s Whitney Baird gave closing remarks and USCIB’s agriculture lead Natalie Bidner-Swehla moderated the discussions. 

Producers and companies, many of which are USCIB members, are already implementing climate-smart and regenerative practices, yet agriculture often remains under-represented in climate discussions. Elevating agriculture within climate pathways is critical to ensuring that real implementation experience, practical challenges, and value-chain innovation inform global climate processes and decisions.  

The roundtable created a frank, forward-looking dialogue that positioned agriculture as a core pillar of climate action and connected real implementation experience across agrifood value chains with the evolving climate policy landscape. The session identified practical priorities, highlighted enabling conditions, and surfaced insights that inform engagement with governments, UN agencies, and partners after Climate Week. 

Atlantic Council: Bringing US Investment to Latin America’s Growth Agenda

USCIB’s Agnes Vinblad participated in a side-event organized by the Atlantic Council featuring USCIB member Coca-Cola on bringing US investment to Latin America’s growth agenda. This discussion brought together the world’s leading voices to tackle its most urgent challenges and chart bold, innovative paths forward. 

ICC and OCP Group Roundtable: Business Leadership for Resilience in Times of Crisis  

USCIB’s Norine Kennedy supported a high-level roundtable on Business Leadership for Resilience in Times of Crisis, organized by the Permanent Observer Office of the ICC to the UN and OCP Group. ICC’s Secretary-General, John Denton, chaired the meeting alongside Meriem El Asraoui, Chief Global Affairs Officer of OCP Group.  

Held on the margins of UNGA81, this high-level roundtable discussed practical solutions, the conditions needed to scale them, and opportunities for stronger public-private collaboration in support of resilience, adaptation, and sustainable growth. 

Goals House and Colgate-Palmolive Panel and Reception 

USCIB’s Kristen Edgreen Kaufman participated in a Goals House UNGA panel and reception hosted by Noel Wallace, Chairman, President and CEO of Colgate-Palmolive, and Esha Gupta, Global Head of Public Health and Social Impact at Colgate-Palmolive.   

Drawing on lessons from 35 years of the Colgate-Palmolive’s flagship global oral health program, “Bright Smiles, Bright Futures,” the discussion explored how long-term commitment and rigorous approaches can translate social good into measurable, real-world impact. Through real-world examples, participants discussed how policy, finance, and partnerships can help accelerate implementation and turn ambition into action. 

 Meta’s The Future is for Everyone: AI, Access, and the Global South 

USCIB’s Elizabeth Duncan supported our member Meta yesterday evening during Meta’s event on the margins of UNGA81: “The Future is for Everyone: AI, Access, and the Global South.” 

Concordia Leadership Dinner for America’s 250th Anniversary 

USCIB’s Kristen Edgreen Kaufman joined an intimate dinner hosted by Concordia and the Public Private Strategies Institute, held alongside Concordia’s Annual Summit.  

As the United States marks its 250th Anniversary, the decisions made by leaders across sectors today will shape the trajectory of America’s economic future. This private roundtable dinner built on the momentum of the Private Sector Promise initiative, bringing together a select group of senior leaders from business, civil society, and the public sector for a candid conversation on the current economic and civic landscape, including the importance of scaling up skilling and workforce training to meet the AI era.  

Business Fights Poverty Annual Dinner   

USCIB’s Norine Kennedy was a guest at Business Fights Poverty’s Annual Dinner on September 22 at the Harvard Club. USCIB members Thomas Bomhoff (Novonesis), Payal Dayal (Mastercard), Cata Garcia (AB InBev), Christian Gomez (Walmart), and other industry leaders also participated. 

The dinner’s theme explored the wider theme of Business Fights Poverty’s Global Goals Summit: What future are we trying to build together, and how can business help create it? 

Walmart Salon Dinner at UNGA   

USCIB’s Whitney Baird attended an annual UNGA Salon Dinner hosted by USCIB member Manish Joneja, Senior Vice President at Walmart US, with the theme of “Building the Next Era of Global Commerce.”  

The dinner featured an off-the-record exchange among senior leaders from government, business, multilateral institutions, and the advisory community and tested which choices can preserve global business opportunity, strengthen competitiveness, and broaden participation in the next era of global commerce. 

Concordia Annual Reception and America’s Energy Future Dinner

USCIB’s Alice Slayton Clark represented USCIB at the Concordia Annual Reception and America’s Energy Future Dinner at the 2026 Concordia Annual Summit. The dinner was hosted by Concordia and The Nuclear Company. 

September 23

Mastercard Digital Ambassadors Breakfast and DAF Dialogue  

USCIB member Mastercard hosted the Digital Ambassadors Forum (DAF), kicking off the event with an exclusive breakfast for direct engagement among global decisionmakers ahead of the DAF 2026 Dialogue, “Tech Diplomacy: Navigating the Geopolitical Divide.” USCIB’s Whitney Baird participated in the breakfast roundtable, along with a select group of senior public and private sector leaders to discuss strategic priorities in digital transformation, governance, and innovation.   

USCIB’s Alice Slayton Clark and Cheryl Miller also engaged in the DAF Dialogue, a mission-driven initiative advancing public-private collaboration on digital policy. Founding and strategic members include USCIB members Mastercard, AT&T, and Oracle, as well as GSMA, The Fletcher School at Tufts University, and Chatham House. DAF serves as a platform to convene senior government leaders and private sector executives to exchange perspectives, share best practices, and explore practical solutions to the challenges of digital governance.  

Foreign Policy’s Health Forum: Session on Closing the NCD Gap  

Despite accounting for 74 percent of deaths worldwide, noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) remain underfunded, underdiagnosed, and missing from national policy agendas. The conversations in this opening session will focus on the economic and policy implications of NCDs, as well as the strategic approaches needed to tackle their rising global burden. USCIB’s new global health policy lead Austin Blanton represented USCIB members at this FP event on closing the NCD Gap. 

UN Office for Partnerships: AI and Human Development 

USCIB’s Elizabeth Duncan attended an UNGA81 side-event hosted by the UN Office for Partnerships on AI and Human Development which took place in the UN Trusteeship Chamber. USCIB member Microsoft’s Brad Smith and ITU Secretary General Doreen Bogdan-Martin were featured speakers. 

Regen House: Making Regenerative Agriculture Mainstream: From Practices on the Farm to Demand Across Markets

USCIB’s Natalie Bidner-Swehla contributed to a conversation on the margins of UNGA81 on regenerative agriculture, hosted by ADM at the Regen House. Natalie joined leaders from across the food, agriculture, retail and technology sectors to explore the next chapter of regenerative agriculture’s evolution, from implementation on the farm to demand creation in the marketplace.

From Vision to Frontline: Charting the Future of the WHO and Strengthening Global Health Security

Austin Blanton, USCIB’s new lead on Global Health, participated in an executive briefing, “From Vision to Frontline: Charting the Future of the World Health Organization and Strengthening Global Health Security.” 

Co-hosted by Concordia, the Stop TB Partnership, and the UN Foundation, the conversation focused on what acute outbreaks and long-running epidemics have already revealed about where the global health architecture holds and where it gives way. 

Devex: Tech That Delivers Session 

USCIB’s Alison Hoiem attended a session on “Tech That Delivers” at Devex Impact House UNGA. Hoiem heard about how certain public-private partnerships are guiding technological and societal impact across global health, education, undernutrition, and even global fishing.

Foreign Policy’s Health Forum: Session on Investing in Health Security

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed critical vulnerabilities in healthcare logistics, delivery, and international coordination. As infectious disease risks grow and leaders prepare for the UN High-Level Meeting on PPPR, this session examined lessons learned and the investments needed—from disease surveillance to development finance—to strengthen global health infrastructure for a more complex health security landscape. USCIB’s new global health policy lead Austin Blanton and USCIB expert Ashley Harrington participated in this relevant Health Forum: Investing in Health Security, organized by Foreign Policy on the margins of UNGA81. Both will also attend the upcoming UN High-Level Meeting on PPPR on September 25 at UN headquarters. 

Goals House and AstraZeneca High-Level Lunch on Sustainable AI

USCIB’s Whitney Baird was honored to attend an intimate, high-level lunch on sustainable AI, hosted by Pam Cheng, Executive Vice President, Global Operations & IT and Chief Sustainability Officer of AstraZeneca.  

The conversation delved into both “sustainability with AI” and “sustainable AI.” Through a candid, cross-sector discussion, participants examined where AI is creating meaningful business and sustainability value, the trade-offs organizations are navigating, and what responsible deployment looks like at scale.  

Concordia and USCIB Roundtable: Investing in Venezuela

USCIB co-hosted a private, executive briefing with Concordia at our New York headquarters to examine the evolving investment landscape in Venezuela, the opportunities emerging as the country works toward economic stabilization, and what a responsible path toward renewed engagement and capital deployment could look like.  

Part of the 2026 Concordia Annual Summit on the margins of UNGA81, this conversation brought together senior leaders from finance, policy, and the private sector, including USCIB members. The session advanced the practical questions shaping how business and investment can be structured responsibly and effectively. Experts with direct, on-the-ground experience in Venezuela shared first-hand perspectives as part of a broader dialogue on the country’s economic trajectory.  

Goals House and ServiceNow: Beyond Skills, Investing in the Next Generation for the Future of Work

The future of work will be shaped not only by technology, but by whether the next generation has the opportunity and confidence to shape it. Hosted by USCIB member ServiceNow’s Karen Pavlin, Chief Workforce Innovation Officer, and featuring Tessy Ojo, CEO, The Diana Award and USCIB’s CRLA expert Jose Arroyo, this lunch convened leaders across sectors to explore how we can invest in young people, strengthen their resilience, and build more inclusive pathways into an AI-enabled economy. 

2Unlock-Unlocking the Value Chain: Regenerative Agriculture

USCIB’s Natalie Bidner-Swehla participated in “Unlocking the Value Chain: Regenerative Agriculture,” hosted by Emerging Ag as part of 2Unlock: Finance in Agriculture & Natural Capital during Climate Week NYC. 

The discussion brought together leaders from across the agrifood value chain to explore how investment, market incentives, and value-chain collaboration can help scale regenerative agriculture, create value for farmers, and strengthen more resilient and sustainable food systems. 

Goals House and Bayer: Extreme Heat’s Toll on Kidney Health: Collective Action for Public Health and Economic Resilience

USCIB’s Kristen Edgreen Kaufman and Austin Blanton joined a roundtable during UNGA81 and Climate Week NYC at Goals House, hosted by USCIB member Bayer’s Matthias Berninger.  

This discussion featured Dr. Naveen Rao (The Rockefeller Foundation) and Dr. Victor Dzau (National Academy of Medicine) and was moderated by Maya Goldman (Axios) and explored how heat exposure is increasingly threatening livelihoods and placing growing pressure on economies and health systems, and what can be done to build climate resilience and adaptation to protect those most vulnerable.  

USCIB Roundtable: What’s Next for the Plastic Pollution Treaty  

USCIB hosted Keri Holland, Senior Policy Advisor & Negotiator for the Plastic Pollution Treaty, US Department of State for a timely discussion exclusively for our members. 

USCIB President and CEO Whitney Baird, provided opening remarks. 

Holland will represent the US at the next informal INC Heads of Delegation meeting in Bangkok (September 27-30), making this convening on the margins of UNGA81 especially timely for relaying key US business priorities. 

Microsoft and Eurasia Group GZERO Media Global Stage Reception

USCIB’s Whitney Baird attended a Global Stage reception, hosted by USCIB member Microsoft’s Brad Smith, Vice Chair and President, and Ian Bremmer, President and Founder of Eurasia Group and GZERO Media. 

Whitney was among other global leaders, policymakers, and industry innovators to exchange ideas and toast to the opportunities shaping our shared future. The event was part of the Global Stage series, a partnership between GZERO Media and Microsoft to highlight emerging trends and opportunities at the intersection of technology, politics, and society. 

Club de Madrid Annual Dinner

USCIB’s Kristen Edgreen Kaufman took part in a great conversation on critical minerals last night at Club de Madrid’s annual UNGA gathering, bringing together former heads of state and government from across the democratic world. Club de Madrid is the world’s largest forum of democratic former Presidents and Prime Ministers, leveraging their leadership experience to strengthen democratic governance and global cooperation.

An important discussion on how we can build more resilient, diversified and secure critical mineral supply chains — and the role international cooperation and the private sector must play.

Foreign Policy’s Health Forum: #AlwaysInnovating Reception

Against the backdrop of the UN High-Level Meetings on pandemic preparedness and universal health coverage, USCIB’s Ashley Harrington and Austin Blanton attended a Foreign Policy reception, co-hosted with IFPMA, on “#AlwaysInnovating.” The reception included a strategic conversation on how sustained investment in innovation and access can bring long-term benefits to health systems, health security, and economic growth. 

September 24

Regen House: Building Better Partnerships for Agriculture

​USCIB’s Natalie Bidner-Swehla participated in an interactive breakfast session hosted by the ALDI South Group to explore practical examples of partnership across agriculture before inviting retailers, suppliers, NGOs and public-sector leaders to work together on real challenges facing farmers and food systems.  

Bringing together key stakeholders from across the value chain, the session focused on shared learning, practical collaboration, and identifying opportunities that can continue long after Climate Week NYC concludes. 

Goals House: Closing the Nature Materiality Gap in Food & Ag

USCIB’s Agnes Vinblad joined a breakfast roundtable during  Goals House UNGA, hosted by Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures, Macdoch Foundation, and the World Banking Alliance (WBA).

The premise of this roundtable is that nature and biodiversity are fundamental to the food and agriculture sector, yet remain too often absent from the decisions that shape investment, risk management, and growth. Hosted by Tony Goldner, CEO, Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD), Michelle Gortan, CEO, Macdoch Foundation, and Pauliina Murphy  (World Banking Alliance), this breakfast brought together leaders from across the finance, food, and agriculture sector to explore how companies and investors can close the nature materiality gap, strengthen alignment across the value chain, and recognize nature as a source of long-term resilience and value. 

SHRM Education-to-Employment (E²) Global Roundtable

USCIB was proud to support member SHRM‘s global roundtable focused on strengthening the connection between education, skills, and employment during UNGA81 High-Level Week. USCIB’s Norine Kennedy and Kristen Edgreen Kaufman joined other global leaders from business, government, education, and the workforce to discuss scalable partnerships and solutions that strengthen talent pipelines, expand opportunity, and support economic growth. 

Foreign Policy Health Forum: Session on Shaping the Future of Health

Breakthroughs in science, technology, and care delivery are reshaping how health challenges are prevented, diagnosed, and treated. USCIB’s Austin Blanton and Ashley Harrington joined this timely Foreign Policy-hosted session on the margins of UNGA81 to explore the innovations transforming global health, from AI-enabled tools and digital platforms to new models of care, and examine the policies and partnerships needed to translate promising advances into accessible, equitable, and scalable solutions. 

From Adversarial Misuse to Agentic Intrusions: Advancing Evidence Building on AI-Enabled Cyber Incidents

On the margins of UNGA81, the Paris Peace Forum and USCIB member Microsoft hosted an expert consultation convened under the Integrated Network for Trusted AI in Cyberspace.  USCIB’s Whitney Baird participated in this timely consultation with governments, international organizations, the AI and cybersecurity industries, civil society and researchers. 

Goals House and Bayer: How Do We Move From Climate Commitments to Market Leadership?

USCIB’s Agnes Vinblad joined a roundtable, “How do we move from climate commitments to market leadership?”  at Goals House alongside UNGA81 and Climate Week NYC.  The event was co-hosted by Matthias Berninger (Bayer) with Amy Brachio (Carbon Measures), this roundtable explored practical pathways for turning commitments into measurable progress. 

The Workplace: A New Frontier for Promoting Financial Health

The International Labour Organization (ILO) and RISE (Reimagining Industry to Support Equality) convened a special event on the margins of UNGA81. USCIB CRLA expert Jose Arroyo represented USCIB members and joined business, civil society, and international organizations’ experts  to discuss how the workplace can serve as a catalyst for the financial health agenda, through employer engagement and responsible workplace financial services, with a focus on the Global South. Promoting financial health in the workplace, particularly for women and other vulnerable groups, is increasingly recognized as a pathway to improved business performance and workers’ wellbeing. 

This event was joined by the UN Secretary General’s Special Advocate for Financial Health, Her Majesty Queen Máxima of the Netherlands; the President of the International Organisation of Employers (IOE), Jacqueline Mugo; and moderated by Cynthia Samuel-Olonjuwon, Special Representative of the International Labour Organization (ILO) to the United Nations and Director of the ILO New York Office.

Foreign Policy: Global Development Forum at UNGA81

Countries across the Global South are facing a convergence of pressures—from global conflicts, food and energy price volatility, and heavy debt burdens to geopolitical competition and declining foreign aid from leading donors. These pressures are accelerating debate over how development is financed, delivered, and measured. USCIB’s Emine Shinjatari joined this timely Foreign Policy event during UNGA81 High-Level Week on “Global Development Forum @ UNGA81”. She joined policymakers, business leaders, financing pioneers, civil society, and faith-based organizations for solutions-oriented discussions on how to bridge resource gaps, strengthen locally led approaches, improve transparency, and build more effective models for sustainable development.  

Food Tank: Acting at the Speed of Crisis

USCIB’s food and ag policy expert Natalie Bidner-Swehla joined Food Tank, RAAPID, and Arrell Food Institute for “Acting at the Speed of Crisis: Challenges & Opportunities for Food Security Rapid Response” at WNYC-NPR Studios’ The Greene Space in New York City for an exclusive event as part of Climate Week NYC.

Goals House: Regenerative Intelligence Revolution: AI Meets Circular Business

USCIB’s Kristen Edgreen Kaufman participated in a small roundtable at Goals House and spoke about barriers to the circular economy and the multilateral system, and how USCIB and our member try to remove those obstacles. 

Devex and EY: The First Year: Where Should the Next UN Leadership Start?

USCIB’s Norine Kennedy attended a Devex event on September 24th, co-organized with USCIB member EY: ”The First Year: Where Should the Next UN Leadership Start?” held on the margins of UNGA81 high-level week. 

Goals House Debate: The UN at 80

USCIB’s Kristen Edgreen Kaufman and Agnes Vinblad attended a Goals House UNGAdebate, a focused discussion tackling one of the most pressing questions facing policymakers today: The UN at 80: Convening Power or Real Power? Anne McElvoy (Politico and Politics at Sam and Anne’s) expertly moderated. 

Mandeep O’Brien (UNICEF) and Michael Bociurkiw (Atlantic Council) were featured speakers, bringing contrasting perspectives to a discussion on the future of multilateralism, the effectiveness of international institutions, and the role the United Nations can realistically play in addressing today’s global challenges. 

September 25

Trade Over Aid Forum

USCIB was honored to participate in a Trade Over Aid Meeting hosted by The Honorable Christopher Landau, US Deputy Secretary of State, The Honorable Mike Waltz, United States Ambassador to the United Nations, and The Honorable John Jovanic, President and Chairman of the US Export-Import Bank. Our UN Affairs team Norine Kennedy and Emine Shinjatari, as well as USCIB’s Brianna Healy, represented US business. 

ILO High-Level Event on Shaping the Future of Work: Decent Work in the Platform Economy

USCIB’s CRLA expert Jose Arroyo participated in an ILO event, co-organized with the Co-Chairs of the Group of Friends of Decent Work (Belgium and Morocco), in collaboration with the European Union and UNESCO. This high-level event brought together key stakeholders to discuss how AI, digital labor platforms and technological change can help shape a future of work that promotes decent work, sustainable development, and inclusive economic growth, including through the implementation of the newly adopted ILO Convention concerning Decent Work in the Platform Economy, 2026 (No. 193). 

This tripartite panel brought together governments, employers, and workers, and had the participation of Linda Rama from Albania, Jacqueline Mugo, President of IOE, and Catherine Feingold, Deputy President at the International Trade Union Confederation ITUC.  

UN High-Level Meeting on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness, and Response

USCIB’s Ashley Harrington and our new global health policy lead Austin Blanton wrapped up USCIB’s weeklong engagement at UNGA High-Level Week while attending the United Nations High-Level Meeting on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness, and Response at UN headquarters.

The theme of this meeting was on fostering a multilateral and intergenerational approach to prevent, prepare for and respond to pandemics and public health emergencies, through the principles of equity and solidarity.