Many women in leadership roles at corporations spearheaded initiatives focused on environmental, social, governance, and economic sustainability. These efforts resulted in tangible benefits for all stakeholders involved and created an impact for a sustainable future for all. The singular purpose of this chapter is to comprehensively address the core, behavioral, and strategic competencies of selected female leaders in the corporate sector who have immensely contributed to the SDGs through corporate sustainability initiatives. It also focuses on corporate sustainability and gender equity, exploring the role of women's leadership in creating corporate value strategies and connecting business outcomes with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
TopSuccess Stories Of Women Leaders In The Corporate World
Many women in leadership positions at corporations spearheaded initiatives focused on environmental, social, governance, and economic sustainability. These efforts resulted in tangible benefits for all stakeholders involved and created an impact for a sustainable future for all.
Figure 1.
Ashley Allen, Chief Sustainability Officer at Oatly
As a sustainability leader within the company, she played a key role due to her extensive experience in sustainable finance, including being a co-founder of Bloom Sustainability Advisors. Her expertise guided Oatly in adopting environmentally friendly practices. Her effective leadership shaped strategies that successfully addressed the company's environmental, social, and governance (ESG) targets and overall performance. Her work involves promoting a sustainability mindset within the organization and making notable contributions to the company's sustainability initiatives. Her leadership has guided numerous significant projects aimed at achieving the company's sustainability goals, such as:
- 1.
She spearheaded initiatives to address climate change and land preservation, establishing targets based on scientific evidence to reduce carbon emissions. She also devised strategies to curb deforestation in crucial commodities like cocoa and palm oil, directing the company toward becoming more environmentally sustainable.
- 2.
She initiated the FARM (Future Agriculture Renovation Movement) project at Oatly, working together with farmers worldwide to grow oats that not only benefit the environment but also contribute to agricultural practices that are resilient and sustainable in the years to come. A new practice to give back to nature by working with the global farming community toward solutions in regenerative agriculture that restore biodiversity and ensure sustainable farming practices.
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Oatly places a strong emphasis on sustainability. This is realized through cooperation among farming, production, and supply chain divisions. Key managers lead these efforts, prioritizing environmental assessments in decision-making. Oatly's annual sustainability report demonstrates this commitment, highlighting initiatives and metrics focused on enhancing performance and fostering a culture of sustainability within the organization. At Oatly, managers empower employees to make sustainability an integral part of their work. Many employees actively align their personal goals with the company's sustainability plan. This approach allows Oatly to constantly review and improve its eco-friendly practices, solidifying its status as a pioneer in sustainable business practices.
Through her initiatives, she demonstrates her unwavering commitment to guiding Oatly's mission of fostering a food system mindful of its environmental and climate consequences. She aspires to transform the food industry, envisioning a sustainable future that aligns with the well-being of humans and the planet.
Figure 2.
Bea Perez, SVP and Chief Communications, Sustainability & Strategic Partnerships Officer at The Coca-Cola Company
In 2011, she was appointed as the first Chief Sustainability Officer at Coca-Cola. In this position, she oversaw and guided the company's efforts to promote environmental stewardship. Her direction has not only impacted Coca-Cola but also extended to the industry, particularly in advancing sustainable actions.