ESG LEADERSHIP
While the role of CSO currently offers this pathway to the C-Suite to more women , it ’ s vital to have similar routes in other leadership roles , too . So how can that be achieved ?
“ People are what matter , so finding opportunities to provide mentorship , sponsorship , and advocacy for women and diverse voices is critical to enhance this pathway ,” says DeLuca .
“ Give people projects , teams , and initiatives to show their value and provide mentorship along the way that leads them to success . If you see other opportunities where they can succeed , advocate for them – especially if they aren ’ t in the room . That ’ s how I got to where I am in my career , so I am proof that this works .”
CHANGING CSO ROLE
Being successful in sustainability leadership means having the ability to prioritise and de-prioritise initiatives based on the data you have , according to Delta Air Lines CSO Amelia DeLuca . “ Finding ways to focus on the levers that will make the most impact and communicate the bigger picture are key for helping women leaders succeed .
“ The CSO role will continue to change as technology changes ,” says De Luca . “ More than that , for many companies , sustainability has become a business imperative in a way that it hasn ’ t always been in the past , which means the C-suite and stakeholders are investing in it .
“ There is so much strategy and crossfunctional collaboration and advocating within sustainability and this helps to create more strategic leadership roles .”
104 February 2024