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 University Graduate (Sustainability/Business)
0-1 year post-graduationSkills to master
- Applying academic knowledge to real-world corporate contexts, professional communication, mastering office productivity tools, understanding corporate processes.
You're ready to move on when
- Strong academic record in a relevant field.
- Demonstrated interest through coursework, dissertations, or extracurricular activities.
- Good foundational knowledge of sustainability concepts.
- Enthusiasm for learning and contributing to a team.
- 2
Administrative Assistant with Sustainability Interest
1-2 years in an admin roleSkills to master
- Transitioning from general admin to specialised sustainability data management, learning specific ESG frameworks, understanding stakeholder dynamics.
You're ready to move on when
- Proven track record of excellent organisational and data management skills.
- Clear passion for sustainability, perhaps through personal projects or volunteer work.
- Ability to quickly learn new industry-specific software.
- Experience supporting multiple team members effectively.
- 3
NGO/Charity Volunteer or Junior Staff
1-2 years in the non-profit sectorSkills to master
- Understanding corporate structures and motivations, translating advocacy language to business language, adapting to corporate reporting cycles.
You're ready to move on when
- Direct experience with community engagement or environmental programmes.
- Strong understanding of social and environmental issues.
- Ability to work with diverse groups of people.
- A desire to influence change from within a corporate setting.