Powerful impact is not an option.
For a leading CAC 40 company, I designed and executed a bespoke training program on Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to empower their leadership team with the skills and knowledge to drive sustainable business practices. The training aimed to align their corporate values with cutting-edge sustainability strategies and integrate CSR into their core business operations.
The project began with in-depth consultations to capture the company's vision and specific goals for CSR. The client emphasized the need to transition towards a more sustainable business model while maintaining profitability and competitiveness in their industry. They sought a training that would both inspire their leadership team and provide practical tools for implementing CSR initiatives.
But this project presented several challenges and constraints.
Tight Timeframe: The client required the entire project—from concept to delivery—to be executed within three months, as they aimed to launch new sustainability initiatives before their annual shareholder meeting.
International Audience: With participants spread across various countries, the training needed to be delivered both in-person and virtually, ensuring accessibility and engagement across multiple time zones.
Industry-Specific Customization: The company operated in the energy sector, which required deep industry knowledge and content tailored to their particular environmental and social challenges.
Cultural Sensitivity: Since part of the leadership team hailed from countries with differing views on sustainability, the content had to be balanced and culturally sensitive, without compromising the core message.
Complex Logistics: The company requested that the in-person training be held in Iceland, known for its sustainability leadership, while requiring that the virtual sessions be equally impactful for those unable to attend.
How I Handled It?
I worked closely with sustainability experts to develop a program that included practical case studies from the energy sector, ensuring relevance and applicability. The curriculum was tailored to showcase CSR best practices while addressing the company's specific challenges, such as reducing carbon emissions and improving community relations.
To meet the tight deadline, I implemented a fast-track project management strategy. This involved parallel workflows for content creation, venue sourcing, and participant coordination, ensuring all moving parts were aligned and on schedule. Regular updates and check-ins with the client kept the project moving smoothly.
I introduced a hybrid training model that combined immersive in-person experiences in Iceland with interactive virtual sessions. For those unable to attend, I ensured that all virtual sessions were equipped with high-quality streaming, live Q&A, and digital workshops to mirror the in-person experience.
I designed specific modules that addressed varying regional perspectives on sustainability, ensuring all participants felt engaged and respected. The program also included breakout sessions for cross-cultural dialogue, helping bridge different viewpoints and foster collaboration.
Iceland, with its pioneering approach to sustainability, provided the ideal backdrop for the in-person sessions. I handled all logistical details, from securing eco-friendly accommodations and venues to arranging transport options that minimized the carbon footprint. I even arranged site visits to Iceland’s geothermal power plants, offering participants an up-close look at innovative sustainability practices in action.
