25 Famous Chief Sustainability Officers (CSO) [2026]

Sustainability has become a defining principle for modern businesses, with corporations worldwide recognizing the need to integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategies into their core operations. Leading this transformation are Chief Sustainability Officers (CSOs), executives responsible for embedding sustainable practices, reducing carbon footprints, and ensuring long-term environmental and financial resilience. These leaders work across industries, from technology giants like Google and Microsoft to consumer goods companies like Unilever and PepsiCo, driving ambitious sustainability goals. They play a crucial role in steering businesses toward net-zero emissions, circular economy adoption, and ethical supply chains. Whether advancing renewable energy initiatives, promoting biodiversity conservation, or reshaping responsible sourcing strategies, CSOs help companies balance profitability with positive environmental and social impact. Their work extends beyond compliance, influencing corporate cultures and setting benchmarks for sustainable growth.

This blog highlights 25 influential CSOs who are shaping the future of corporate sustainability. By examining their backgrounds, leadership strategies, and key achievements, we gain insights into how these professionals are redefining corporate responsibility and paving the way for a more sustainable global economy.

 

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25 Famous Chief Sustainability Officers [2026]

1. Jim Andrew

Jim Andrew is the Chief Sustainability Officer at PepsiCo, responsible for leading the company’s sustainability agenda, including its ambitious PepsiCo Positive (pep+) strategy. He has been instrumental in driving initiatives such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, water stewardship, and sustainable packaging. Under his leadership, PepsiCo has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2040 and ensuring that all packaging is recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable by 2025. Andrew previously held leadership roles at 3M and brings extensive experience in corporate sustainability and strategic innovation. His efforts have helped PepsiCo make significant progress in regenerative agriculture and reducing plastic waste across supply chains.

 

2. Rebecca Marmot

Rebecca Marmot serves as the Chief Sustainability Officer at Unilever, where she leads the company’s global sustainability and social impact initiatives. She is instrumental in executing the Unilever Compass, a framework designed to integrate sustainability into everyday life. Under her leadership, Unilever has accelerated its commitments to climate action, circular economy practices, and fair trade sourcing. Marmot has driven Unilever’s push for net-zero emissions across all products by 2039 and water conservation efforts in manufacturing. She also advocates for women’s empowerment and human rights in supply chains, ensuring Unilever remains a leader in corporate sustainability and responsible business practices.

 

3. Kate Brandt

Kate Brandt is the Chief Sustainability Officer at Google, where she oversees the company’s sustainability efforts across global operations, products, and supply chains. Prior to joining Google, she served as the first Federal Chief Sustainability Officer during the Obama administration, leading sustainability programs across various U.S. government agencies. At Google, she has been instrumental in advancing carbon neutrality, responsible AI development, and clean energy transitions. Under her leadership, Google has committed to operating on 24/7 carbon-free energy by 2030 and has made major strides in circular economy solutions, including reducing e-waste and improving resource efficiency in data centers and hardware production.

 

4. Melanie Nakagawa

Melanie Nakagawa, as Microsoft’s Chief Sustainability Officer, oversees the company’s environmental strategy, focusing on achieving carbon negativity by 2030 and eliminating all historical carbon emissions by 2050. Before joining Microsoft, she was a climate and energy advisor to the U.S. government, serving on the National Security Council. She has extensive experience in clean energy policy and corporate sustainability. At Microsoft, Nakagawa has strengthened partnerships for global climate innovation, expanded investments in carbon removal technologies, and led efforts to reduce water consumption in data centers. Her leadership is positioning Microsoft as a pioneer in AI-driven sustainability solutions.

 

5. Adam Muellerweiss

Adam Muellerweiss is the Chief Sustainability Officer at Clarios, a global leader in advanced energy storage solutions. He is responsible for driving the company’s environmental and social responsibility initiatives, with a strong focus on circular economy principles. Under his leadership, Clarios has advanced its closed-loop battery recycling system, ensuring that over 99% of lead-acid batteries are recovered and reused, reducing waste and environmental impact. Muellerweiss has also championed Clarios’ commitment to achieving carbon neutrality and increasing energy efficiency in battery production. His efforts have positioned Clarios as an industry leader in sustainable energy storage and responsible manufacturing practices.

 

6. David Clark

David Clark serves as the Chief Sustainability Officer at Amcor, a global leader in responsible packaging solutions. Leveraging his deep expertise in environmental sustainability, he has guided the company’s transition toward ensuring that all packaging is either recyclable, compostable, or reusable. Under his leadership, Amcor has significantly reduced its carbon footprint, increased the use of post-consumer recycled materials, and invested in innovative packaging solutions that minimize environmental impact. Clark also works closely with industry partners and governments to advance sustainable packaging regulations and circular economy initiatives. His leadership has made Amcor a frontrunner in sustainable packaging development and corporate environmental responsibility.

 

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7. Karen Pflug

Karen Pflug is the Chief Sustainability Officer at IKEA, where she leads the company’s efforts to become climate-positive and circular by 2030. Since joining IKEA in 2021, she has been instrumental in driving the brand’s sustainability agenda, including reducing carbon emissions, promoting responsible sourcing, and ensuring sustainable product innovation. Under her leadership, IKEA has expanded its use of renewable energy, increased its commitment to regenerative materials, and improved circular design principles. Pflug is also a strong advocate for affordability and accessibility in sustainability, ensuring that eco-friendly choices remain cost-effective for consumers while maintaining IKEA’s long-term environmental commitments.

 

8. Amanda Young

Amanda Young is a prominent leader in sustainable finance, formerly serving as the Chief Sustainability Officer at Abrdn, a global asset management firm. During her tenure, she played a key role in integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into investment strategies, advocating for responsible and impact-driven finance. Young was instrumental in developing sustainable investment frameworks and aligning Abrdn’s portfolios with net-zero commitments. She has since transitioned to focus on ethical finance initiatives, working with organizations that promote sustainable economic growth. Recognized as an expert in ESG integration, she continues to shape the future of sustainable investing and finance.

 

9. Ezgi Barcenas

Ezgi Barcenas is the Chief Sustainability Officer at AB InBev, the world’s largest brewer, where she leads the company’s global sustainability strategy. She has been a driving force behind AB InBev’s 2025 Sustainability Goals, championing initiatives in smart agriculture, water conservation, circular packaging solutions, and the shift to renewable energy. Under her leadership, AB InBev has committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions across its value chain by 2040 and has expanded its renewable electricity usage through solar and wind power projects. Barcenas is also a strong advocate for sustainable sourcing, partnering with thousands of farmers globally to implement climate-smart agricultural practices.

 

10. Andrew Boyd

Andrew Boyd serves as the Chief Sustainability Officer at Perfetti Van Melle, one of the world’s largest confectionery manufacturers. He is responsible for integrating sustainability into the company’s business operations, focusing on reducing environmental impact, enhancing responsible sourcing, and minimizing waste. Under his leadership, the company has strengthened its commitment to sustainable packaging, aiming for 100% recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable materials. Boyd has also led initiatives in sustainable ingredient sourcing, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and improving water efficiency across manufacturing plants. His strategic approach has positioned Perfetti Van Melle as a leader in environmentally responsible confectionery production.

 

11. Pilar Cruz

Pilar Cruz is the Chief Sustainability Officer at Cargill, a global leader in food and agriculture. She is responsible for driving sustainability initiatives that focus on regenerative agriculture, climate resilience, and food security. Under her guidance, Cargill has pledged to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and has significantly increased its investments in sustainable agriculture. She has played a key role in Cargill’s partnerships with farmers to promote soil health, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration. Prior to her current role, Cruz held leadership positions across Cargill’s various businesses, bringing deep expertise in global food supply chains and responsible sourcing strategies.

 

12. Esther An

Esther An, as the Chief Sustainability Officer at City Developments Limited (CDL), has been at the forefront of promoting green building innovations and sustainable real estate development. She has been a key figure in shaping CDL’s environmental, social, and governance (ESG) policies for over two decades. Under her leadership, CDL has launched several award-winning sustainability initiatives, including Singapore’s first green bond and the introduction of climate-resilient urban planning. She has played a key role in advancing CDL’s goal of achieving net-zero operational carbon emissions by 2030. Recognized as a sustainability thought leader, An frequently advocates for sustainable finance, corporate climate action, and ESG integration in real estate development.

 

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13. Lora Jakobsen

Lora Jakobsen is the Chief Purpose Activist and Head of Marketing & Communications at ZeroNorth, a Copenhagen-based company dedicated to decarbonizing the maritime industry through data-driven solutions. As a founding member since 2020, she has been pivotal in scaling the organization from a six-person startup to a 600-employee scale-up. Under her leadership, ZeroNorth has successfully prevented over two million metric tonnes of CO₂ emissions since January 2022. Jakobsen also contributes to industry-wide sustainability efforts, participating in the Global Maritime Forum’s Operational Efficiency Working Group and chairing the EnergyLeap Vessel Emissions Reporting Standard.

 

14. Marc Kahn

Dr. Marc Kahn serves as the Chief Strategy & Sustainability Officer at Investec, where he oversees the group’s strategic direction and sustainability initiatives. Since joining Investec in 2008, he has been pivotal in embedding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into the company’s strategic framework. Kahn chairs Investec’s ESG Executive Committee and leads efforts that have positioned the company among the world’s most sustainable organizations, ranking 52nd in the Global 100 Index. With a background in clinical psychology and management consulting, he is also a Senior Associate at the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership, contributing to thought leadership in sustainable business practices.

 

15. Adam Brennan

Adam Brennan serves as the Chief Sustainability Officer and Group Director of Corporate Communications at Thai Union Group, a global leader in the seafood industry. Since October 2021, he has led the company’s global sustainability initiatives under the SeaChange® program, which includes the Tuna Commitment, Sustainable Packaging Commitment, and Climate Change Strategy. Under his leadership, Thai Union has committed $200 million towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 42% across its production processes and supply chain by 2030. Brennan brings extensive expertise in environmental management, having previously led sustainability programs for global fashion retailer C&A and serving on the Board of Directors for the Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals Foundation.

 

16. Angela Pinhati

Angela Pinhati is the Chief Sustainability Officer at Natura, a Brazilian multinational cosmetics company renowned for its commitment to environmental and social responsibility. With over 32 years of executive experience, including two decades at Natura, she assumed the role of CSO in 2023. Pinhati has been instrumental in advancing Natura’s sustainability agenda, focusing on biodiversity conservation, ethical sourcing, and community engagement. Under her leadership, Natura has conserved two million hectares in the Amazon in collaboration with 41 communities, benefiting over 10,600 agro-extractive families and developing 42 bio-ingredients. She also serves as the President of the Board of Directors for the Union for Ethical BioTrade (UEBT), promoting sourcing with respect for people and biodiversity.

 

17. Jeremiah T. Pampolina

Jeremiah T. Pampolina serves as the Chief Sustainability Officer, Chief Compliance Officer, and Vice President for Investor Relations & Corporate Planning at Sta. Lucia Land Inc. (SLLI), a prominent Philippine real estate developer. Appointed as CSO in March 2024, Pampolina has been pivotal in integrating sustainability into SLLI’s core operations. Under his leadership, the company has launched sustainability-focused initiatives, including the installation of solar panels at Sta. Lucia Mall in Cainta and establishing a 60-hectare nature reserve in Palo Alto, Baras, Rizal. His efforts were recognized when he was invited to join the Executive Committee on Green and Sustainability of the ASEAN CIO Association, reflecting his commitment to promoting sustainable practices within the industry.

 

18. Elizabeth Grove

Elizabeth Grove serves as the Chief Sustainability Officer and Vice President of Public Affairs at The Lubrizol Corporation, where she is responsible for advancing the company’s global sustainability initiatives, encompassing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) disciplines, as well as overseeing government affairs and community engagement. Since joining Lubrizol in 2007, Grove has held multiple leadership positions, such as Global Director of Sustainability and Compliance for Lubrizol Life Science and Chief Litigation Counsel. Before her tenure at Lubrizol, she worked as a trial attorney for the Federal Trade Commission and as a litigation attorney at Jones Day. Grove also serves as the President of The Lubrizol Foundation, guiding the company’s philanthropic efforts.

 

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19. Jennifer Guenther

Jennifer Guenther is the Chief Sustainability Officer, Head of Investor Relations and External Affairs at Tronox Holdings plc, a global leader in the mining and production of titanium dioxide. Taking on her current role in June 2024, she previously served as Chief Sustainability Officer and Head of Investor Relations starting in April 2023, following her tenure as Vice President of Investor Relations since April 2020. Guenther joined Tronox in 2018 as Vice President of Business Development. Prior to Tronox, she worked at Goldman Sachs as a Vice President in the Investment Banking Division, advising on mergers, acquisitions, and financings. She began her career at Solutia Inc., focusing on corporate strategy and business growth. Guenther holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and an MBA from Harvard Business School.

 

20. Diana Guzmán

Diana Guzmán serves as the Chief Sustainability Officer and Chair of the Prudence Foundation at Prudential plc, overseeing the company’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategies across Asia and Africa. Appointed in January 2023, she is responsible for embedding sustainable practices into Prudential’s core operations and community initiatives. Before joining Prudential, Guzmán headed the Sustainable Development Investment Partnership & Development Finance at the World Economic Forum in Geneva, where she played a key role in fostering global collaborations to develop innovative financial solutions for emerging markets. She also served as Director at CDP, driving environmental risk management among corporations and investors. Originally from Mexico, Guzmán earned an MBA from London Business School and a BA in Financial Management from Monterrey Institute of Technology. She is proficient in Spanish, English, and Italian and has conversational fluency in Mandarin and French.

 

21. Charney Magri

Charney Magri is the Co-Founder and Chief Sustainability Officer of Do Epic Good, a virtual strategy and creative platform dedicated to empowering brands with purpose-driven initiatives. With a background as an international fashion photographer, Magri transitioned to sustainability advocacy, focusing on integrating ethical practices within the creative industry. Through Do Epic Good, she offers CPD-certified courses and workshops aimed at demonstrating that sustainable business models can be both impactful and profitable. Magri is also known for producing the docuseries “Catwalk to Creation,” which explores sustainable practices in the fashion industry. She emphasizes that sustainability should be a core aspect of business strategy, driving long-term success and positive environmental impact.

 

22. Ian McCallum

Ian McCallum serves as the Group Chief Sustainability Officer at Bank ABC, a leading international banking group headquartered in Bahrain. Appointed in June 2023, he is responsible for driving and delivering the bank’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework, ensuring the integration of sustainability across the group’s operations in 15 jurisdictions. With over 17 years of experience in asset management and banking, McCallum holds a BA (Hons.) in Accountancy & Finance from Heriot-Watt University, a Sustainable Finance Certificate from Cambridge University, and an Investment Management Certificate from the UK Society of Investment Professionals. Alongside his responsibilities at Bank ABC, he actively supports regional sustainability initiatives as a member of the Sustainability Forum Middle East’s Advisory Committee.

 

23. Pamela Mischen

Dr. Pamela Mischen is the Chief Sustainability Officer and Faculty Advisor to the President at Binghamton University, where she also serves as a Professor in the Environmental Studies Program. In her administrative roles, she focuses on strategic planning and sustainability initiatives, leading the Office of Sustainability since its establishment in July 2023. Dr. Mischen’s research focuses on strengthening local governments’ ability to build sustainable communities, as well as exploring knowledge management and inter-organizational networks within the public sector. She holds a BS from Cornell University and both MS and PhD degrees from Arizona State University. Beyond her academic work, she contributes to community organizations, serving on the board of trustees for the Roberson Museum and Science Center and as an advisory board member for the Healthy Lifestyles Coalition of United Way of Broome County.

 

24. Kwasi Mitchell

Dr. Kwasi Mitchell serves as the Chief Purpose and Global Chief Sustainability Officer at Deloitte, where he leads the organization’s strategy on purpose-driven initiatives, including diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), sustainability, climate change, education, and workforce development. Appointed as Deloitte’s first Chief Purpose Officer in 2020, he expanded his role to encompass DEI leadership in 2023. Dr. Mitchell holds a Ph.D. in inorganic chemistry from Northwestern University and an MBA from Drexel University. He actively participates on several national and global nonprofit boards dedicated to fostering a more equitable society.

 

25. Nancy Sutley

Nancy Sutley serves as the Deputy Mayor of Energy and Sustainability for the City of Los Angeles, where she leads environmental, energy, and sustainability initiatives under Mayor Karen Bass’s administration. Prior to this position, she was the Senior Assistant General Manager of External and Regulatory Affairs and Chief Sustainability Officer at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, overseeing public engagement and regulatory compliance for the nation’s largest municipal utility. Sutley has an extensive career in public service, having chaired the White House Council on Environmental Quality during the Obama administration and previously serving as Deputy Mayor for Energy and Environment in Los Angeles, along with holding key roles in California state government.

 

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Conclusion

As the climate crisis intensifies and social expectations shift, the role of Chief Sustainability Officers has never been more critical. The 25 CSOs featured in this blog exemplify how businesses can move beyond traditional profit-driven models to embrace long-term environmental and social stewardship. Through their leadership, companies are reducing emissions, promoting responsible sourcing, investing in circular economies, and ensuring compliance with evolving global sustainability standards. Their work demonstrates that sustainability is no longer an optional initiative but a fundamental pillar of corporate strategy. By integrating ESG principles into business models, these leaders are driving change that benefits not only their organizations but also communities and ecosystems worldwide. As industries continue to innovate and governments introduce stricter regulations, the influence of CSOs will only grow. Businesses that prioritize sustainability today will be best positioned for success in the future, proving that environmental responsibility and profitability can go hand in hand. The achievements of these CSOs serve as a blueprint for companies striving to create lasting positive impact in an increasingly complex world.