Val Smith

Val Smith is managing director and Citi’s chief sustainability officer. She joined Citi in 24 and oversees Citi’s global sustainability initiatives, including leading the bank’s sustainable progress strategy and $1 billion environmental finance goal. Val also serves as an advisor and spokesperson on sustainable finance, climate risk, stakeholder engagement, ESG integration and sustainability trends towards a low-carbon economy.

Prior to joining Citi, Val spent a decade working in the environmental sector, including the National Audubon Society, Brainerd Foundation, and the Houston Advanced Research Center. She began her career with the US Peace Corps, where she served for two years in Honduras. She serves on the boards of the UN Global Compact, US Network, and the New York League of Conservation Voters Education Fund, and is a member of the Aspen Institute Leaders Forum. Val earned her MBA from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill and her BA from the University of Virginia. She lives in Brooklyn with her husband and two sons.