The Sustainable Leadership Programme
By, Marc Duffy and Dorisa Walaszek, Ulster University Business School
On the 16th of October 2024, Ulster University, in partnership with PODIEM and the Department for the Economy (DFE), proudly launched its new Sustainable Leadership Programme at the prestigious Sustain Exchange Summit in Belfast. This innovative course, designed to equip future leaders with the skills and insights needed to drive sustainable change, has already made waves within the business and environmental sectors.
We are on the cusp of a paradigm shift in Sustainable Change. Speaker Ben Craig perfectly summed it up, when it comes to sustainable change, the phone call is waiting for you – explaining, you have already received this phone call, are about to make this phone call or are about to receive it
The Sustainable Leadership Programme is a four-day, fully funded initiative supported by the DFE, designed to help participants create and implement long-lasting sustainable practices within their organisations. This course is uniquely structured, bringing together leading business figures and sustainability experts to provide participants with practical tools and strategies.
Over the four days, participants will engage in hands-on workshops, interactive seminars, and collaborative learning experiences. The course covers a wide range of topics, including sustainable business practices, responsible leadership, and innovative environmental strategies
Whether you’re a seasoned leader or an emerging executive, the programme provides an invaluable opportunity to embed sustainability at the heart of your organisation’s strategy. What sets this course apart is its commitment to delivering real-world solutions. Participants will walk away with not only theoretical knowledge but also an action plan for driving positive environmental impact within their businesses.
During the first session at Sustain Exchange, the students listened to key experts in the area of sustainability, learning from the very best minds in sustainable development.
Exclusive Access at the Sustain Exchange Summit
This premier event, focused on sustainable innovation and leadership, providing a unique opportunity for attendees to network with key figures from across industries. Additionally, participants were given the privilege of attending a private audience with John Elkington, a global authority on sustainability, and the keynote speaker at the summit.
During the private session, Elkington, known as the “father of sustainability,” shared his invaluable advice on leading change in today’s complex landscape. His message was clear: “Take your carbon reporting as seriously as you take your accounting.” He stressed the need for organisations to embrace environmental transparency and align their goals with the broader mission of combating climate change.
Several prominent speakers at the summit addressed the critical challenges and opportunities in sustainability:
Sustainability is not just a trend; it is on the verge of a paradigm shift, said Elkington. With environmental consciousness accelerating across the globe, businesses that fail to adapt risk falling behind.
Lucy Seige another influential voice at the event, emphasised the need for organisations to understand their mission fully and avoid funding environmentally damaging practices. Lucy was unequivocal in her message: “we must stop bankrolling fossil fuels if we are to make meaningful progress toward a sustainable future”
Eimear Manning an advocate for youth engagement in climate action, provided a powerful perspective on the anxieties facing younger generations. According to Manning, eco-anxiety is rampant among young people, and for many, climate change and environmental degradation are their primary concerns. This underscores the urgency of creating sustainable leadership that not only addresses environmental challenges but also speaks to the fears and aspirations of the next generation.
Locally, Chris Martin focused on skills, explaining that the green transition is threatened by business leaders’ failure to develop and source green skills.
Register your interest
The Sustainable Leadership Programme offers a forward-thinking approach to tackling the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. As sustainability becomes an integral part of business strategies worldwide, organisations must ensure their leadership is equipped to navigate this evolving landscape.
By enrolling in this programme, you will gain insights directly from sustainability pioneers and business leaders, empowering you to spearhead sustainable initiatives within your organisation. The knowledge gained from the summit and private sessions will provide you with a competitive edge, positioning your business at the forefront of sustainable innovation.
As sustainability continues to crash into the mainstream organisations that embrace this shift will thrive in an increasingly eco-conscious market. The Sustainable Leadership Programme is a critical step toward preparing your organisation for the future.
Join the movement for change. Become a leader in sustainability and drive lasting impact for your business.
Register your interest here: https://forms.office.com/e/mxFuYmPKdY
