The Investor Responsibility Research Center Inc. has appointed former president and CEO of Citizens Bank of Canada, Linda Crompton, as its president and CEO, effective January 1, 2002.

Based in Washington, D.C., IRRC is a source of impartial information on corporate governance and social responsibility issues affecting investors and corporations worldwide. IRRC provides research, software products and consulting services to nearly 500 subscribers and clients representing institutional investors, corporations, law firms and other organizations.

“At a time when business is feeling both economic and shareholder pressure, IRRC will benefit greatly from Linda Crompton’s expertise,” said Luther Jones, IRRC’s chair.

“Ms. Crompton understands first hand, the dynamic and often difficult balance between meeting business objectives and being accountable to stakeholders.”

In addition to her academic credentials, Crompton brings 25 years of experience in business, finance and organization development as well as a deep understanding of social and environmental issues. “It is an honor to take over the leadership of such an important organization as IRRC,” said Crompton, “Never before has the world felt so small and so interconnected. It is in times like these that we become acutely aware of the need to understand the greater impact of our business decisions.”

Crompton succeeds Scott Fenn, who announced plans to retire earlier this year after a 23-year career at IRRC, including six years as president.