Why IKEA CEO Jesper Brodin Is Nominated as a UN Commissioner

Jesper Brodin, CEO of Ingka Group, which operates the large majority of IKEA stores, has been nominated by Sweden to lead the UN Refugee Agency as the next UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

The nomination, announced on Monday 13 October, puts Jesper in the running for the position alongside a Finnish Foreign Minister, Turkey’s UN ambassador and the ex Migration Ministers of Belgium and Switzerland.

According to the UN Refugee Agency, a UNHCR leader’s responsibilities include leading and coordinating international action to protect refugees; finding solutions to refugee problems; safeguarding fundamental human rights and delivering life-saving aid during emergencies.

It’s a rare case of a business leader being backed for a top international policy job, The Financial Times says.

Benjamin Dousa, Sweden’s International Development and Trade Minister, said in a statement discussing the nomination: “The UN system would be strengthened by a person with business experience, especially given the major challenges now facing the UN.

“That’s why someone who knows how to keep hold of the purse strings and deliver efficient operations is needed.”

The IKEA CEO, who is stepping down from the role in November 2025, told Reuters that he has experience from IKEA of working in collaboration with the UNHCR in Syrian refugee camps in Jordan as well as following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The current UNHCR

Filippo Grandi has led the UNHCR for the past decade and will be leaving the role at the end of 2025 at the end of his term.

The former Commissioner of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees has been vocal about the impact of funding cuts on the organisation.

According to The Financial Times, President Donald Trump cut US funding for the body from US$2bn to about US$390m in 2025, alongside Germany, France and Italy who have also withdrawn some of their support.

In an interview with CNN in March 2025, Filippo warned that these cuts to international aid could destabilise regions and threaten global security.

He said: “Europe is surrounded by a belt of crises that are very dangerous for Europe’s security as well.

“Whether it is Syria, the Sudan crisis, the Sahel or Ukraine, it is very important that Europe steps up its foreign assistance, not only for those places but for Europe’s security as well.”

When asked about Elon Musk’s claims that aid cuts wouldn’t cost lives, the Commissioner respectfully disagreed and added: “You can argue whether we can be more efficient in distributing aid, and for sure, that’s something we always strive to do.

“With fewer resources, we’ll be even more efficient - avoiding duplication, working together, being more agile and directing resources where they’re needed most.”

From IKEA leadership to leading the UNHCR?

Jesper has worked for the Swedish furniture powerhouse for over 30 years, transforming IKEA by pushing into smaller city-centre stores and online retail while successfully dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a LinkedIn post on 15 October, Jesper wrote: “Honoured and humbled that the Swedish Government has nominated me for such an important role. 

“UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency plays such an important role in protecting some of the world’s most vulnerable people. Over the years, I have had the privilege to follow it closely, through our collaborations, and I have always been deeply impressed by its commitment and ability to make a real difference.”

Commenting on the post, colleague Cindy Andersen, Managing Director of Ingka Centres, said: “Such a great choice of candidate! You (Jesper) have always been inspiring me and many others with your leadership - always courageous, purpose driven and optimistic.

“You have, and will continue to make a difference!”

The 193 member UN General Assembly is predicted to elect a new high commissioner for refugees later this year.