How to maintain a focus on sustainability as a leader

Outside The Boardroom

"I grew up on a farm... so I've always had a really strong connectivity to the land. It was always a passion - trying to understand how human beings could live on the planet in a way that was sustainable." So said Keryn James as she joined David Heron on this episode of Outside The Boardroom.

It’s an ethos that has guided Keryn through her career. She’s dedicated over 30 years to leadership in the sustainability consulting sector, starting her career in Australia before taking on roles that spanned the globe. Her expertise in environmental consulting helped her ascend to key positions, including CEO, at ERM, a leading sustainability consulting firm. Keryn now serves as a non-executive director across various sectors, leveraging her experience to guide and grow companies with sustainability at their core.

David and Keryn explore the nuances of leading in different cultural and business environments, and the impact of private equity on business dynamics.

Key lessons you’ll get from this episode:

· The importance of adaptability and cultural sensitivity in global roles. How do you achieve this?

· How to navigate multiple cycles of private equity ownership

· The importance of engaging stakeholders outside formal settings to build trust and facilitate frank discussions during challenging times. What does this involve?

A well-articulated purpose can guide company strategy, influence stakeholder engagement, and drive employee motivation, particularly in sustainability-focused organizations. Join David and Keryn as they unpack this.