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
Director of EHS & Sustainability (Large Global Company)
5-10 years at this level before C-suite considerationSkills to master
- Managing multi-regional teams, developing business unit-level strategy, P&L management for a significant function, engaging with senior business leaders, navigating complex regulatory landscapes.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully led a major EHS transformation programme across a business unit.
- Consistently delivered significant reductions in TRIR and environmental incidents.
- Proven ability to influence business unit presidents and VPs on EHS strategy.
- Strong external reputation with regulators and industry peers.
- 2
VP / Global Head of Sustainability (Major Corporation)
5-10 years at this levelSkills to master
- Developing and executing enterprise-wide sustainability strategies, leading ESG reporting and investor engagement, managing climate risk, driving circular economy initiatives, engaging with NGOs and external stakeholders.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully launched and embedded a global sustainability programme (e.g., net-zero target).
- Significantly improved the company's ESG ratings and investor perception.
- Proven ability to integrate sustainability into core business functions (e.g., supply chain, product development).
- Strong track record of external representation and thought leadership in sustainability.
- 3
Senior Partner / Principal Consultant (EHS/ESG Consulting Firm)
10+ years at this level, advising C-suite clientsSkills to master
- Providing strategic EHS/ESG advice to multiple Fortune 500 clients, developing thought leadership, managing complex client engagements, business development, deep industry expertise across sectors.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully advised multiple C-suite clients on critical EHS/ESG strategies and transformations.
- Recognised as a leading expert in a specific EHS/ESG domain (e.g., climate risk, chemical management).
- Proven ability to build and lead large consulting teams and manage significant revenue streams.
- Extensive network of executive contacts across various industries.