Business mindset a must for career in sustainability

Mary Merrill, director of strategic initiatives for the Coca-Cola Company’s Office of Sustainability, stumbled upon sustainability after more than 17 years working in marketing. She enjoyed the opportunities and the global scope her position presented, but it wasn’t until she saw how much could be accomplished by marrying marketing with sustainability that she could see her role evolving. Now, Merrill credits her background in business with being able to successfully direct strategic, sustainable initiatives. She suggested to those interested in a similar career path that a solid grounding in business will always be a boon — especially being able to speak in business terms to sell the case for sustainability. “The past 20 years helped me understand what the business bottom line drivers are,” she said. “Unless you start from a business mindset, you’re not going to get the traction you need.” Whether you’re a seasoned expert or budding development professional — check out more news, analysis and advice online to guide your career and professional development, and subscribe to Doing Good to receive top international development career and recruitment news every week.