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
Recent Graduate (Relevant Degree)
0-1 yearSkills to master
- Applying academic knowledge to real-world corporate processes, mastering organisational tools, understanding corporate communication norms.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully managing multiple academic projects/deadlines.
- Demonstrable experience with data handling (e.g., dissertation research, academic projects).
- Active participation in university societies or volunteer groups.
- 2
Administrative Assistant / Coordinator (Non-Sustainability)
1-2 yearsSkills to master
- Adapting existing organisational and administrative skills to the specific context of sustainability, learning industry-specific tools and terminology.
You're ready to move on when
- Track record of excellent organisational skills and attention to detail in previous roles.
- Experience managing calendars, coordinating events, and handling data.
- A clear interest in transitioning into the sustainability sector, perhaps through self-study or volunteering.
- 3
Volunteer Coordinator / Community Engagement Role (Non-Profit)
1-2 yearsSkills to master
- Understanding corporate structures and processes, translating non-profit needs into corporate language, working with larger datasets and reporting requirements.
You're ready to move on when
- Experience managing volunteers, coordinating programmes, and engaging with community partners.
- Ability to work effectively with diverse groups of people.
- A desire to understand corporate sustainability from the 'other side'.