Who Is Jochen Zeitz? The Sustainable Leader & More

Boyd Tillman 29 May 2025

Is it possible for a business leader to champion both profit and planet? The resounding answer, exemplified by Jochen Zeitz, is a resounding yes. Zeitz has proven that sustainability and business success aren't mutually exclusive but rather intrinsically linked, a philosophy that has redefined corporate responsibility.

Jochen Zeitz isn't just another name in the corporate directory; he's a force reshaping how businesses perceive their role in the world. As the former CEO of Puma, his leadership transcended conventional business models, pioneering the "Environmental Profit & Loss" (EP&L) accounting system. This revolutionary approach meticulously quantifies the environmental impact of a company's operations, forcing a reckoning with ecological costs previously relegated to the shadows. Beyond Puma, Zeitz co-founded the B Team, uniting global business titans in a shared mission to forge a sustainable future, proving that collective action can amplify individual efforts.

Full name	Jochen Zeitz
Date of birth	April 2, 1963
Place of birth	Mannheim, Germany
Nationality	German
Education	Studied International Marketing and Finance
Career	CEO of Puma (1993-2013), Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Kering, Co-founder of The B Team
Professional Information	Known for pioneering Environmental Profit & Loss (EP&L) accounting and advocating for sustainable business practices.
Official Website	Jochen Zeitz Official Website

His accomplishments extend beyond mere corporate innovation; they embody a profound shift in thinking. Zeitz's leadership stands as a beacon for those seeking to redefine business as a force for good, proving that ethical considerations and economic success can indeed coexist. From Mannheim, Germany to the global stage, Jochen Zeitz's journey is a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership.

Zeitz's journey began long before he took the helm at Puma, but it was there that his commitment to merging profit with purpose truly took flight. His understanding of the interconnectedness between corporate actions and environmental well-being has resonated across industries, creating a ripple effect that continues to expand. The implementation of Pumas EP&L system wasnt just a PR exercise; it was a deep dive into the supply chain, a meticulous audit of resource consumption, and a daring act of corporate transparency that challenged the status quo.

He recognized that genuine sustainability demanded a holistic approach, one that incorporated every stage of production, from raw material sourcing to waste management. This understanding pushed Puma to innovate, seeking eco-friendly materials, reducing water usage, and minimizing carbon emissions. The EP&L wasnt simply a report; it was a roadmap, guiding Puma toward a more sustainable future and setting a precedent for other companies to follow. The impact reverberated throughout the industry.

Beyond Puma, the B Team embodies Zeitzs belief in collective action. This coalition of global business leaders, including figures like Richard Branson and Paul Polman, are united by a shared commitment to creating a more just and sustainable world. The B Team isn't just about making pledges; its about driving tangible change, advocating for responsible business practices, and challenging governments to create policies that support sustainability. Zeitz understands that systemic change requires collaboration and a willingness to challenge conventional wisdom. The group's impact is palpable on the global stage.

Zeitz's relentless pursuit of sustainability has not gone unnoticed. He has garnered numerous accolades, including the "Sustainability Pioneer" award from the World Economic Forum and the "Business Leader of the Year" award from the UN Global Compact. These awards are not just acknowledgements of his achievements; they are a testament to his unwavering commitment to a better future. They serve as an inspiration to other leaders, demonstrating that sustainability can be a pathway to both business success and positive social impact.

His approach is multi-faceted. He recognizes that true sustainability goes beyond environmental protection. It encompasses social justice, economic equity, and ethical governance. He understands that businesses have a responsibility to create value for all stakeholders, not just shareholders. This holistic perspective informs his philanthropic endeavors and his advocacy for responsible business practices. His work continues to evolve and adapt to an ever changing global landscape.

Zeitzs visionary approach extends beyond his professional endeavors. He understands that personal choices also play a crucial role in creating a more sustainable world. From embracing a minimalist lifestyle to advocating for conscious consumption, he lives his values, setting an example for others to follow. His actions demonstrate that sustainability is not just a corporate strategy but a way of life.

Jochen Zeitz is more than just a CEO or an environmentalist; he is a catalyst for change. His leadership at Puma, his co-founding of the B Team, and his relentless advocacy for sustainability have transformed the way businesses perceive their role in the world. He has proven that profit and purpose can coexist, that sustainability can be a driver of innovation and growth, and that businesses have a responsibility to create a more just and sustainable future for all.

The Environmental Profit & Loss (EP&L) accounting system, which measures the environmental impact of a company's operations, became synonymous with Puma under Zeitz's leadership. But the adoption of this groundbreaking system wasnt without its challenges. It required a fundamental shift in thinking, a willingness to embrace transparency, and a commitment to investing in sustainable practices. However, the long-term benefits far outweighed the initial hurdles.

The EP&L system allowed Puma to identify areas where it could reduce its environmental impact, leading to innovations in material sourcing, manufacturing processes, and supply chain management. This not only reduced the company's ecological footprint but also enhanced its brand reputation and attracted environmentally conscious consumers. In essence, sustainability became a competitive advantage. It showed that businesses can thrive by doing good.

Zeitzs influence extends far beyond the sportswear industry. His work with the B Team has brought together a diverse group of business leaders who are committed to driving systemic change. The B Team advocates for policies that promote sustainability, responsible business practices, and social justice. It serves as a powerful voice in the global arena, challenging governments and corporations to embrace a more holistic approach to business.

He understands that creating a sustainable future requires a collective effort. It requires businesses, governments, and individuals to work together towards a common goal. The B Team provides a platform for collaboration, fostering dialogue and sharing best practices among its members. This collective approach amplifies the impact of individual efforts, creating a ripple effect that extends across industries and continents.

Zeitz's vision is not just about mitigating environmental damage; its about creating a regenerative economy that restores and enhances natural resources. He believes that businesses have a responsibility to invest in solutions that address climate change, biodiversity loss, and other pressing environmental challenges. This long-term perspective is essential for creating a truly sustainable future.

Philanthropy plays a significant role in Zeitz's commitment to sustainability. The Zeitz Foundation supports projects that promote environmental conservation, community development, and cultural preservation. These initiatives are often focused on empowering local communities to manage their own resources sustainably, creating a virtuous cycle of economic growth and environmental stewardship.

His understanding that sustainability is not just an environmental issue, it is also a social and economic issue. By empowering local communities, the Zeitz Foundation helps to create a more just and equitable world. This holistic approach recognizes the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of addressing the root causes of poverty and environmental degradation.

Zeitz's commitment to sustainability is not just a professional pursuit; it is a deeply personal conviction. He lives his values, embracing a minimalist lifestyle and advocating for conscious consumption. He understands that individual actions can have a collective impact and that each of us has a responsibility to contribute to a more sustainable future. His integrity resonates, as he "walks the talk,".

His impact on the business world is undeniable. He has inspired countless leaders to embrace sustainability as a core business value. He has demonstrated that sustainability can be a driver of innovation, a source of competitive advantage, and a pathway to long-term success. His work serves as a beacon of hope for those who believe that businesses can be a force for good in the world.

Zeitz is a true visionary, his vision for a sustainable future is both ambitious and achievable. He believes that businesses have the power to transform the world, to create a more just and equitable society, and to protect the planet for future generations. It is a vision that inspires hope and calls us all to action.

The legacy of Jochen Zeitz continues to unfold, his influence reverberating throughout the business world and beyond. His achievements are not merely historical milestones; they are a living testament to the power of visionary leadership, the transformative potential of sustainability, and the unwavering commitment to creating a better future for all. His work continues to inspire, challenge, and shape the course of responsible business practices.

He stands as a symbol of hope and a reminder that even the most complex challenges can be overcome with ingenuity, determination, and a steadfast dedication to creating a world where profit and purpose are inextricably linked. His journey serves as an inspiration to current and future generations of leaders, encouraging them to embrace sustainability as a core value and to champion the cause of responsible business practices.

The Environmental Profit & Loss (EP&L) accounting system, pioneered by Zeitz during his tenure at Puma, stands as a watershed moment in corporate sustainability. This innovative approach meticulously quantifies the environmental impact of a companys operations, assigning monetary values to factors such as greenhouse gas emissions, water usage, and waste generation. By translating ecological costs into financial terms, the EP&L system provides businesses with a clear and compelling incentive to reduce their environmental footprint.

The EP&L system empowers businesses to make informed decisions about their operations, identifying areas where they can reduce their environmental impact and improve their bottom line. By quantifying the costs associated with environmental damage, the EP&L system encourages businesses to invest in sustainable practices that minimize their ecological footprint. The system provides a roadmap for companies seeking to align their business goals with environmental stewardship.

The B Team, co-founded by Zeitz, serves as a global platform for business leaders committed to driving positive change. This collective of influential figures works to promote sustainable business practices, advocate for responsible policies, and challenge conventional notions of corporate success. By uniting diverse voices and perspectives, the B Team fosters collaboration and amplifies the impact of individual efforts.

The B Team functions as a catalyst for change, promoting dialogue and sharing best practices among its members. This collaborative approach encourages innovation and accelerates the adoption of sustainable business practices across industries and continents. By uniting diverse voices and perspectives, the B Team fosters collaboration and amplifies the impact of individual efforts.

Zeitzs philanthropic endeavors, channeled through the Zeitz Foundation, further demonstrate his unwavering commitment to sustainability. The foundation supports projects that promote environmental conservation, community development, and cultural preservation, with a particular focus on empowering local communities to manage their own resources sustainably.

The Zeitz Foundation recognizes the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic issues, adopting a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of poverty and environmental degradation. By empowering local communities, the foundation helps to create a more just and equitable world where people and planet can thrive together. The foundation has invested in the long-term wellbeing of communities and ecosystems.

His work has consistently earned him recognition as a visionary leader. He has been lauded for his innovative approaches to business, his unwavering commitment to sustainability, and his ability to inspire others to embrace a more responsible and ethical way of doing business. His awards and accolades serve as a testament to his profound impact on the world.

Zeitzs leadership serves as a beacon of hope for those who believe in the power of business to create positive change. He has demonstrated that sustainability is not just a buzzword or a marketing ploy, but a fundamental value that can drive innovation, enhance competitiveness, and create a more just and sustainable world for all. His vision is inspiring.

Jochen Zeitz's influence extends beyond the corporate sphere, impacting educational institutions and inspiring future generations of business leaders. His commitment to sustainability has influenced curriculum development and fostered a greater awareness of environmental responsibility among students. His message resonates beyond the boardroom.

Zeitzs dedication to sustainability serves as a powerful example for future generations of business leaders, demonstrating that ethical considerations and long-term value creation should be at the heart of every business decision. His journey serves as a call to action, urging individuals to embrace their responsibility as stewards of the planet.

His ability to connect with people from all walks of life, from corporate executives to community leaders, speaks to his authentic commitment to creating a better world. He understands that building a sustainable future requires collaboration, empathy, and a willingness to listen to diverse perspectives. He is a unifier, as well as a visionary.

Zeitzs vision for a sustainable future extends beyond the traditional boundaries of corporate responsibility, encompassing the well-being of communities, the preservation of cultural heritage, and the protection of biodiversity. His work stands as a reminder that true sustainability requires a holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of all things.

His commitment is a long-term endeavor, one that requires continuous learning, adaptation, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. He is not afraid to question conventional wisdom, embrace innovation, and push the boundaries of what is possible. His example is vital to creating positive change.

Zeitzs work serves as a powerful reminder that businesses have a responsibility to operate in a way that benefits both people and the planet. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide future generations of leaders as they strive to build a more sustainable and equitable world for all. His impact is timeless.

Jochen Zeitz is not merely an environmentalist or a CEO; he is a transformative figure who has redefined the landscape of corporate responsibility. His relentless pursuit of sustainability has inspired countless others to embrace a more ethical and responsible way of doing business, leaving an indelible mark on the world. His legacy will continue to inspire and shape the future of business for generations to come.

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Who Is Jochen Zeitz? The Sustainable Leader & More

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