Overview

A sustainability manager is responsible for managing a company or organization’s environmental impact, resources and plans. They provide leadership to address energy use, resource conservation, waste management and any other aspects of a company which directly impacts their environmental footprint. Sustainability managers strategize plans with actionable steps and will work with departments help stay on track to meet their sustainability goals.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Establish short- and long-term goals for an organization to reduce their environmental impact
• Mange the execution of all sustainability practices and systems
• Provide recommendations on ways to improve a company’s sustainability
• Work with suppliers, growers and other stakeholders to advance sustainable solution initiatives
• Have a strong understanding of sustainability concepts and applications
• Keep records of all sustainability efforts
• Conduct cost-benefit analyses for sustainable strategies
• Research potential opportunities to address market needs related to sustainability
• Oversee the daily workflow of company’s sustainability projects
• Research the latest trends, practices and news related to sustainability
• Create training materials to support staff and lead sustainability demonstrations
• Work closely with various departments to support the incorporation of sustainable solutions
• Identify and analyze non-conformance issues then recommend and facilitate solutions to these issues
• Arrange, coordinate and participate in internal sustainability audits
• Develop internal and external communications plans related to sustainability efforts
• Coordinate the enterprise’s sustainability teams
• Propose motivation tools to promote employees action

What education and training is required?

An bachelor's degree in agribusiness, social science, environmental studies, environmental engineering, climatology, law or a related field is required to be a sustainability manager. Upper-level sustainability management positions may require higher levels of education.

To pursue a career as a Sustainability Manager :

The following high school courses are recommended: agricultural education, environmental science, biology, earth science, chemistry, business and mathematics.

Where can I work?

Sustainability managers most often work for medium- to large-scale agricultural and food companies and manufacturers. They may also work for consulting firms, municipal, state or federal governments, retail corporations and environmental organizations.

Future Job Market / Outlook

Good

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• Committee for Sustainable Agriculture
• Institute of Environmental Sciences and Technology
• National Association of Environmental Professionals
• State and regional sustainability and environmental groups