Planet, People, Profit: Careers in Corporate Sustainability
Just like there’s no one path into business, there’s no one way to break into the growing field of sustainability.
That was one of the main takeaways during Planet, People, Profit: Careers in Corporate Sustainability. During a live and engaging panel discussion on February 25, four alumni from the Wisconsin School of Business and the Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies at UW–Madison discussed sustainability practices across industries, reflected on their own career paths, and shared advice on breaking into this exciting and evolving field.
Sustainability leads the way
All panelists agreed that corporate sustainability is, without question, here to stay.
“It’s good for business, it’s good for society, it’s good on so many levels. You can’t ignore it,” says Kurt Kober (MBA ’07), former president of emerging business unit and VP of commercial strategy and planning at the Honest Company.
While sustainability efforts can vary from company to company, panelists agreed that businesses who fully commit to weaving sustainable practices into their work frequently reap the rewards.
“The companies that really are going to continue to succeed and profit are the ones who see sustainability as both a business driver and as just good business practice,” says Katherine Mitchell (BS ’12, MIPA ’13), customer impact success manager at Autodesk. “The people who are truly embedding it seem to be the ones who are having the most success.”
Keep learning and connecting
Sustainability is a dynamic, constantly evolving sector that’s driven by technological innovation, domestic and international regulations, and shifting demands from both suppliers and customers. Panelists noted that staying current on the latest practices and policies can help prepare you for your next job—or the position that ends up being your dream job.
“Learn as much as you can, but know that it’s completely progress over perfection,” says Morgan Ramaker Klaas (BA ’06, MBA ’17), senior manager of corporate responsibility at Target. “The role that I’m in today probably didn’t exist when I was in college. So, be open to where things might take you.”
Leveraging the Badger network can also be a great way to stay informed, share tips, and find out about job opportunities in sustainability or the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) sector.
“Don’t be shy about making those connections,” says Klaas. “We have this incredible network as part of UW–Madison, and you can and should use it.”
Be able to talk the talk
In today’s corporate environment, there’s a demand for professionals who can talk knowledgeably about sustainability, apply it to business situations, and get buy-in from key stakeholders.
“We’re constantly selling sustainability to either our directors or our bosses,” says Jordan Hersh (BS ’18), sustainability software sales executive at UL Solutions. “We’re saying, ‘This is really important, here’s why, and here’s how it’s going to impact us and our customers.’”
Kober echoed that, and says getting to know your company’s technical teams—such as the scientists making an eco-friendly cleaning product—can help with the sustainability sell. “Working with those partners to really understand the science and the technology, and then being able to communicate to an executive leadership team why it’s important and central to the business strategy, is critical,” he says.
Lots of ways to have an impact
If you’re looking to break into this field, it might be tempting to only apply to roles that are explicitly labeled as sustainability or ESG. However, all panelists agree that’s not the only way in, and there are other things you can do to make a positive impact.
“You can always champion sustainability from within any role you’re taking on in an organization,” says Mitchell. “Don’t let yourself be limited by the titles you’re searching for. There are a lot of ways to get there.”
“Sustainability is highly interdisciplinary,” adds Hersh. “When you’re presented with an opportunity for a new role or position, there can often be lots of different ways in which you’re able to incorporate ESG or sustainability into that role. It’s a great way to continue to gain knowledge and experience, and that can be applied to multiple different avenues and areas within sustainability.”
Watch the full conversation above or on the Wisconsin School of Business YouTube page.