To strengthen the role of the Sustainability Collective within the organisation, a regular Steering Committee was established with the CEO and other members of management. Every two months, members of the Collective meet with management to share progress, raise important topics, make requests and discuss issues requiring management decisions. Members of the Collective participate on a rotating basis, depending on current priorities and responsibilities.
Project Goals
Creating structures for regular exchange with management
Developing relationships with management and decision-makers
Enabling management decisions and securing resources for larger actions
Strengthening the role and visibility of the Sustainability Collective
Supporting the implementation of sustainability initiatives
Focus Area
Workplace & Organizational Development
What gave you the courage to start?
The Collective wanted to involve management more closely in its development and create a regular opportunity to share progress, raise requests and seek decisions. Existing relationships with members of management helped the Collective gain initial support and approach the CEO to establish the Steering Committee.
The Outcome
A Steering Committee was established with the CEO and two other members of management, together with around four to five members of the Collective on a rotating basis. Meetings take place every two months. The dates are agreed for the whole year in advance. Around two weeks before each meeting, the Collective agrees on the agenda and prepares a written document covering the key topics, information and requests.
The Impact
The Steering Committee helped the Collective strengthen its role within the organisation and gain management support for its development. It enabled important decisions to be made, including securing a budget for larger sustainability initiatives. The Collective also became a recognised stakeholder within the organisation.
The Biggest Challenge
One of the key challenges was establishing a productive dialogue with management and creating the right conditions for regular exchange. It was important to build on existing relationships, involve the right people and prepare each meeting carefully. Focusing on key information, positive developments and a limited number of requests helped structure the discussions.
The Biggest Learning
We learned that regular exchange with management can help a sustainability collective strengthen its role within an organisation. Clear preparation, defined priorities and direct communication make it easier to involve management and obtain decisions and support for important initiatives.
Most Enjoyed
What we enjoyed most was the opportunity to exchange directly with management and see the Collective’s ideas and requests discussed at this level. The regular meetings created a direct link to decision-makers and helped turn important requests into concrete decisions.