The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
From Circularity Specialist (L2)
2-3 years at L2Skills to master
- Moving from owning specific tasks to leading entire projects, developing strong stakeholder influence, and demonstrating advanced LCA/MFA capabilities.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully delivered multiple complex workstreams independently.
- Proactively identified and proposed solutions to significant circularity challenges.
- Consistently provided informal guidance or mentorship to new joiners.
- Demonstrated ability to present findings and recommendations clearly to mid-level management.
- 2
From Sustainable Product Development / Eco-Design Engineer
5-7 years in roleSkills to master
- Expanding from product-specific eco-design to broader circular business model design, understanding reverse logistics, and developing strong business case articulation.
You're ready to move on when
- Led eco-design initiatives that resulted in measurable environmental improvements.
- Collaborated effectively with supply chain and operations teams on material selection and end-of-life considerations.
- Demonstrated understanding of the commercial implications of sustainable design choices.
- Experience with LCA tools and interpreting their results for product optimisation.
- 3
From Management Consulting (Sustainability Focus)
4-6 years in consultingSkills to master
- Transitioning from advisory to hands-on implementation, deep diving into specific operational challenges, and building long-term internal relationships.
You're ready to move on when
- Managed client projects focused on circular economy or sustainable supply chains.
- Developed and presented strategic recommendations to senior client stakeholders.
- Experience with data analysis, business case development, and project management.
- A desire to move from a project-based external role to an embedded, long-term internal impact role.