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.
![](/uploads/NewCareerProfiles2023/Sustainability_Manager_Photo.jpg)
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