Here's how you can navigate potential career paths in sustainability as a late-career professional.

I got into sustainability after 30 years of career because reaching 50, I felt that I needed more purpose in my life. So I first moved to HSE. Coming from the O&G industry, it was an "easy" sell, as this sector is so advanced on the topic. The move to CSO after that, was almost natural. I think organisations start to understand that the best impact comes with changing things from the inside, on the technology but also on the business model. Who better than the professional can do it. However, it can only work if you are truly passionate - Sustainability is not only a job, it is a life. If you continue jumping in a plane for a WE beach break and eat meat everyday, you might question yourself if this is really what you want to do.

As a late-career professional exploring sustainability, start by assessing your current skills and how they can transfer to sustainability roles. Identify gaps and seek targeted education in areas like environmental science or sustainable business practices. Leverage your vast experience by focusing on roles that require complex problem-solving, leadership, and strategic planning. Networking with professionals in the field and attending relevant workshops or conferences can open doors. Remember, your expertise is invaluable in driving sustainable change.

Best is to think of your own function in two ways 1. How sustainability helps the function for the next 10 years? 2. How your function helps your organization to achieve net zero?

When I studied Civil Eng., sustainability was not a primary consideration. Many years later in my career, I developed a strong interest in sustainability. To pursue this interest, I joined the US Green Building Council (USGBC), where I engaged with journals, and specifications related to sustainability. I then obtained a professional certification in sustainability, which provided me with a deeper understanding of the subject. My background in civil engineering, coupled with my specialized training, uniquely positions me to contribute to sustainability initiatives effectively, particularly in project management and green building. Understanding these strengths helps guide me to the right niche within the sustainability field.

I think Sustainability really touches different functions, so it's helpful to think about how your existing skills could align well in a Sustainability role. For example someone in risk management or credit risk assessment, can quickly transition to climate risk assessment. Someone working in sourcing, will naturally have skills related to driving down supplier emissions or enabling a higher bar on ESG within the supply chain. So I think the search starts inwards, and then you can quickly align your skills to sustainability as it's probably the most multi-faceted function there is

It’s a matter of honesty and integrity in what you want to do, together with the people, organization which in itself is a shared community that has direct influence to the wider world and communities. Thanks for sharing and your sharing of personal and professional insights creates awareness for the importance to self and others in what you do and enabling people that are interested about ESG to understand it is a passion!

Navigating potential career paths in sustainability as a late-career professional involves leveraging your existing skills and experience while acquiring new knowledge relevant to the field. Begin by identifying transferable skills such as project management, leadership, and strategic planning, and then supplement these with targeted education in sustainability practices, renewable energy, or environmental policy. Networking is crucial; connect with professionals in the sustainability sector through industry conferences, online forums, and professional organisations. Consider certifications like LEED or courses in environmental management to bolster your credentials. Stay informed about emerging trends and technologies.

Following top sustainability voices on LinkedIn, and signing up to newsletters (either from individuals or companies) has been an effective way for me to stay updated on specific ESG trends. It is a very fast pace industry and certain areas, such as regulation, are ever-evolving. Following people who are at the heart of the policy-making processes or decision makers is a great way to keep informed and can help you identify ways to upskill, whether that's through enrolling in online courses or pointing you in the direction of useful reports / policy documents to read.

The key is to remain adaptable, embrace lifelong learning, and leverage your wisdom to drive meaningful impact. - Stay curious - constantly learn about emerging trends like circular economy, renewable energy, and sustainable finance. - Leverage your experience - mentor young professionals and startups working on sustainable solutions. - Upskill through online courses, workshops, and certifications in areas like carbon accounting or ESG reporting. - Network actively within the sustainability community to explore new opportunities. - Consider consulting roles that capitalize on your domain expertise while allowing flexibility.

Networking is key in any career transition. Remember however, that networking isn't about how much you can get, but how much you give. Make sure to come to any networking opportunity as your authentic self. Speak to many people, ask lots of questions about who they are, what they do, the challenges they face and how they tackle those challenges. This is where you learn the most and this is how you make the best impression. Take what you learn and see how it applies to you, your work, or how it connects with others that you've networked with. And remember always to follow up and stay in touch.

Before diving into networking, take some time to clarify your career goals and interests within the sustainability sector. It's always important to ask yourself: Am I passionate about renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, climate policy, or another area? Understanding your focus will help you target your networking efforts more effectively. Consider joining professional associations or groups dedicated to sustainability, such as the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), the Association of Climate Change Officers (ACCO), or local sustainability networks. These organizations often host networking events, webinars, and workshops specifically tailored to professionals in the field.

Reaching out to professionals who are within your target market through networking events, LinkedIn messaging, etc.. can lead you to having conversations where you can showcase your value. Through that, there are possibilities for job opportunities.

I approach this in another way. Gain experience by using the information that your learning and applying it to what you do currently. Find solutions that can benefit your current role, apply those solutions or present to leadership ways that these solutions can benefit business and then execute.

Join your local USGBC chapter and volunteer for an event. Sign up for a committee that interests you or one where your experience will be an asset. The sustainability community is very welcoming so share what ignited this later-career interest and ask questions. Lots of questions. This will help create a clearer and more targeted path on your sustainability journey!

Your existing expertise can be your biggest asset. Reframe your previous experience in terms of sustainability. For instance, my background in academia as a biological researcher, working on eco-restoration and biodiversity, and in the nonprofit sector implementing CSR projects, has been invaluable in my current role as a sustainability consultant. Even without direct client experience, these fields provided a strong foundation in understanding sustainability issues.

Sustainability is a new field of work. It didn't even exist 5 years ago in many companies. Sustainability is a theme wherein you can use your skills in project management, due diligence, communication, change management... Many professional tool boxes can be very beneficial to the sustainability field. Additionally, the field changes so rapidly that even someone who worked with CSR 5 years ago will have to catch up on the latest legislation, trends and frameworks.

Adapting your skills to roles in sustainability involves identifying transferrable skills from your previous career and aligning them with the needs of the sustainability sector. Take advantage of online and free courses to quickly gain knowledge and proficiency in sustainability concepts, such as energy transition, green energy, climate justice, or regenerative farming. Additionally, immerse yourself in relevant articles and resources to deepen your understanding of specific sustainability sectors, allowing you to make informed decisions. Identify companies you'd like to work with and connect with HR teams, and start conversations.

Gain a clear understanding of your organization's current sustainability landscape and its future trajectory. About 70% of successful transitions into (any)sustainability roles hinge on the maturity and priorities of the organization. Individuals with backgrounds in finance, operations, and marketing tend to have a higher chance of success. Gathering specific knowledge tailored to your organization contributes significantly, accounting for about 20% of success. While motivation is important, comprising 10% of the equation, it's not the sole determining factor. Adopting a strategic mindset and being tactful in navigating your transition to a sustainability role can enhance your prospects