10. Robert Kitt
40, Estonia, CEO, Swedbank Estonia
As chief executive and chairman of Swedbank Estonia, Robert Kitt has been credited with transforming the institution from a conservative financial organization into a bastion of corporate social responsibility.
The driving force for the revolution has been Kitt’s personal belief in contributing to the broader society and having a meaningful impact on the world. It is a principle that he also imparts to his students at Tallinn University of Technology, where he is a Professor of Finance and Complex Systems Analysis.
Kitt has developed a “time donation” program that provides bank employees with two paid days off for the express purpose of professional development and social contribution. The bank has sponsored activities such as assisting at animal shelters and orphanages.
Entrepreneurs and other corporations have also adopted the time donation system, continually expanding Kitt’s virtuous circle of social responsibility.