Joseph (JD) D’Cruz is the CEO of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), the world’s leading platform advancing sustainable palm oil. He leads global efforts to transform the palm oil industry by integrating economic development, environmental protection, and social equity.
Before joining RSPO, JD served for over 20 years with the United Nations, most recently as Special Advisor for Strategic Planning and Innovation at UNDP, where he led global teams on sustainable development, innovation, and future-focused strategy. He has advised governments and institutions worldwide on the SDGs, climate action, urbanization, and inclusive growth.
JD also serves on the Board of ISEAL and as an independent non-executive director with Climate Governance Malaysia. He began his career as a management consultant, advising clients across Southeast Asia on business strategy, public sector reform, and privatization. Born in Malaysia, JD was educated in Malaysia, Australia, and the UK, and holds degrees in politics, economics, and international development.
