APPS
Philanthrocapitalism
Andrew Kassoy is a leading advocate for transforming capitalism to prioritize societal well-being alongside profitability. As the co-founder and CEO of B Lab, he has been instrumental in developing the B Corp certification, a global standard that helps businesses measure and improve their social and environmental impact. This experience shaped his understanding of how financial systems work and inspired him to reimagine capitalism as a force for broader social good.
In this interview, Kassoy shares the importance of stakeholder capitalism, where companies balance the needs of shareholders with those of employees, communities, and the planet. Under his leadership, B Lab has driven a movement encouraging businesses to adopt sustainable and equitable practices. Kassoy’s work has been widely recognized, earning him awards and acknowledgment for championing an economic model that fosters inclusion and resilience while addressing global challenges like inequality and climate change.
24:05 | 2013
Andrew Kassoy is a social entrepreneur and co-founder of B Lab, the nonprofit organization behind the B Corporation certification that promotes accountability, sustainability, and transparency in businesses worldwide. Before founding B Lab in 2006, Kassoy spent 16 years in private equity, where he worked with leading investment firms such as MSD Capital and Lehman Brothers. Over time, he realized the need to align business practices with values that prioritize social and environmental responsibility alongside financial success. This led to his pivot toward creating systemic change in the corporate world.
Kassoy earned his undergraduate degree in Political Science from Stanford University. His education played a foundational role in shaping his understanding of global systems and the need for innovative approaches to tackle systemic challenges. He further honed his leadership and entrepreneurial skills as a Henry Crown Fellow at the Aspen Institute, a program that emphasizes values-based leadership. This fellowship was instrumental in inspiring the creation of B Lab, as it connected Kassoy with his future co-founders and reinforced his vision of business as a force for good.
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