WASHINGTON : The resignation comes weeks after the Geneva-based organisation launched an external probe amid renewed global attention on Epstein’s network of contacts.
Brende, who has led the WEF since 2017, announced his decision on Thursday after disclosures from the US Justice Department revealed he had attended three business dinners with Epstein and had communicated with him via email and text messages.
“After careful consideration, I have decided to step down as President and CEO of the World Economic Forum. My time here, spanning 8-1/2 years, has been profoundly rewarding,” Brende said in a statement.
“I am grateful for the incredible collaboration with my colleagues, partners, and constituents, and I believe now is the right moment for the Forum to continue its important work without distractions,” he added. Brende did not directly refer to Epstein in his remarks.
In a separate statement, WEF co-chairs Andre Hoffmann and Larry Fink confirmed that an independent review conducted by outside counsel into Brende’s relationship with Epstein had been completed.
According to the findings, there were no additional concerns beyond what had already been publicly disclosed.
The forum initiated the investigation earlier this year after the release of US justice records reignited scrutiny of Epstein’s connections with prominent political and business leaders worldwide.
With immediate effect, Alois Zwinggi will assume the role of interim President and CEO. The WEF Board of Trustees will oversee the leadership transition and begin the search for a permanent successor.
Headquartered in Geneva, the World Economic Forum is best known for organising the annual Davos summit, which convenes heads of state, corporate executives and civil society leaders from across the globe.
The World Economic Forum's President and CEO, Brende, has resigned following an external probe into his connections with Jeffrey Epstein. Despite no new concerns emerging from the investigation, Brende decided to step down to allow the Forum to continue its work without distractions. Alois Zwinggi will take over as interim leader while a permanent successor is sought.