Sustainability doesn't work in isolation - Successful CSOs are part of C-level management and need collaboration, authority, and resources
Author: House of Eden
The growing importance of sustainability in companies is reflected in the increasing number of Chief Sustainability Officers (CSOs). In order to successfully implement sustainable measures, it is important to clearly define the role of the CSO. Harvard Business Review experts have developed a framework of eight critical tasks for CSOs, including:
8 Responsibilities of the Chief Sustainability Officer
- Compliance with environmental regulations
- ESG monitoring
- Sustainability projects
- Relationship management
- Organizational skills
- Cultural change
- Scouting and Experimentation
- Sustainability in processes and decision-making
The Harvard experts visualized these tasks in a so-called spider diagram. This can help define the actual positioning of the CSO role. But also to recognize the current focus, required resources and existing gaps. To use the chart effectively, leaders should ensure that the CSO is accountable for all eight tasks. In addition, also have suitable skills to take into account the various dimensions of sustainability.
In order to successfully integrate sustainability goals, CSOs must therefore work closely with other managers. You must provide regular progress reports and ensure effective communication within the organization. Cooperation with external partners and stakeholders is also crucial to develop sustainable solutions and share best practices.
Collaboration, authority, and resources - CSOs belong to the executive level
It is also crucial for a successful implementation of the sustainability strategy that CSOs have sufficient resources and authority. This can be achieved through close collaboration with senior management and access to decision-makers. It is particularly important that the CSO is not viewed as an isolated function but as a central part of the entire leadership team.
In addition, to measure and monitor progress toward the implementation of the sustainability agenda, CSOs should establish clear metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs). These should be checked and adjusted regularly. This can help raise awareness of the importance of sustainability across the organization and ensure continuous improvement in sustainability performance.
Overall, clarifying the role and responsibilities of a CSO can help strengthen the commitment to sustainability across the organization. By creating a balanced and well-defined CSO role, companies can reduce their environmental and social footprint, improve their reputation and ultimately increase their competitiveness in the marketplace.
