Sustainability Magazine August 2023 | Page 17

We explore the steps Velislava Ivanova , America ’ s Chief Sustainability Officer at EY , took to become an influential figure in the sustainability field

As America ’ s Chief Sustainability Officer and Climate Change and Sustainability Services Leader at EY , Velislava Ivanova is a leading sustainability expert with over 25 years of extensive international experience in the sector .

Ivanova is experienced in creating and executing sustainability strategies and programmes for major multinational corporations from a range of industries , including energy , manufacturing , retail , consumer goods and pharmaceuticals , to name a few . Additionally , she has provided guidance to a wide range of client businesses on how to integrate sustainability into their value chains and goods .
Inclusive leadership , backed by extensive experience As an accomplished professional , Ivanova is the driving force behind EY ’ s sustainability initiatives , focused on enhancing long-term value for both the firm and its clients . With a dedicated team of over 500 experts specialising in sustainability advisory , reporting and assurance services , Ivanova leads the charge . She states she is focused on : “ Delivering innovative solutions to the sustainability challenges of our clients requires technical knowledge , business acumen and sector insights .”
Additionally , Ivanova has a proven track record of working successfully with senior leaders in large , complex enterprises , Ivanova is able to set a sustainability vision and goals to enhance business performance . She has also had the chance to manage intricate environmental initiatives for private , IFI and governmental clients thanks to her work . As well as successfully changing the longterm value strategies of companies headquartered in the US , Canada , Bulgaria , the UK , Russia , Ukraine , Slovakia , Romania , and Belgium as a leader , Ivanova has worked in multiple top-tier international consulting firms , where she has effectively led professional practices and teams .
Demonstrating an inclusive leadership style while fostering a collaborative environment to develop diverse talent , Ivanova is a major advocate for the transition to a low-carbon and circular economy . She has therefore written

“ Delivering innovative solutions to the sustainability challenges of our clients requires technical knowledge , business acumen and sector insights ”

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