Vice President of Sustainability Operations – Eco-Friendly CPG – Chicago, IL

JRG Partners LLC is seeking a Vice President of Sustainability Operations in Chicago, IL, to lead sustainability strategy in the eco-friendly CPG sector. The role involves integrating sustainable practices within operations, overseeing sustainability goals, and driving eco-friendly product innovation. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in sustainability operations and strong leadership skills. This position is crucial for enhancing the company's environmental stewardship and market presence.
Vice President of Sustainability Operations – Eco-Friendly CPG – Chicago, IL

We are seeking a visionary Vice President of Sustainability Operations to join a leading eco-friendly Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) company in Chicago, IL. As a key member of the leadership team, you will be responsible for driving the company’s sustainability strategy, ensuring that sustainability practices are integrated throughout operations, and positioning the brand as a market leader in environmental stewardship. If you have a passion for sustainability, innovation, and operational excellence, this is an exciting opportunity to make a profound impact.
Shape the Future of Eco-Friendly Consumer Goods

The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in sustainability operations within the CPG industry, along with a strong understanding of environmentally-conscious practices and supply chain management. You will be responsible for overseeing the execution of sustainability goals, ensuring that the company meets its targets for reducing carbon footprints, waste, and energy consumption. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced sustainability leader to shape the future of eco-friendly consumer products and help the company grow its market presence while adhering to the highest environmental standards.
Key Responsibilities of the Vice President of Sustainability Operations – Eco-Friendly CPG

Sustainability Strategy Development: Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive sustainability strategy that aligns with the company’s eco-friendly values and growth objectives. Establish measurable sustainability goals, track progress, and drive the adoption of innovative environmental practices across all business functions.

Sustainable Operations & Efficiency: Oversee the integration of sustainable practices throughout the supply chain, manufacturing processes, and day-to-day operations. Implement cost-effective and environmentally conscious initiatives to reduce waste, energy consumption, and the company’s overall carbon footprint while maintaining operational excellence.

Eco-Friendly Product Innovation: Champion the development of new, environmentally-friendly products and packaging solutions. Collaborate with the R&D and product development teams to ensure that sustainability is a core factor in product innovation, design, and lifecycle management.

Team Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration: Build and lead a high-performing sustainability team while fostering a culture of sustainability across the entire organization. Collaborate with various departments, including marketing, production, and logistics, to ensure sustainability initiatives are aligned with business goals and integrated across all functions.

Sustainability Reporting & Compliance: Oversee the development of sustainability reports and ensure compliance with industry regulations, environmental standards, and certifications. Ensure the company’s sustainability efforts are transparent and communicated to key stakeholders, including investors, customers, and regulatory bodies.

Stakeholder & Community Engagement: Build strong relationships with external stakeholders, including government agencies, environmental organizations, and industry groups. Represent the company at sustainability-focused events, ensuring the brand’s eco-friendly initiatives are recognized and supported within the broader sustainability community.

Continuous Improvement & Industry Leadership: Stay ahead of industry trends and emerging sustainability practices. Drive continuous improvement initiatives that position the company as an industry leader in eco-friendly CPG. Encourage innovation and ensure the company remains at the forefront of sustainability in the CPG sector.

Customer & Consumer Engagement: Leverage consumer insights and market research to understand the growing demand for sustainable products. Develop customer engagement strategies that highlight the company’s sustainability initiatives, building brand loyalty and trust with eco-conscious consumers.

Risk Management & Mitigation: Identify potential environmental and sustainability risks, and develop strategies to mitigate these risks. Ensure that sustainability efforts align with the company’s risk management framework, minimizing potential legal, financial, or reputational risks related to environmental impacts.
What the Client is Looking for in You

As the Vice President of Sustainability Operations – Eco-Friendly CPG, the client is looking for a visionary leader with a proven track record of driving sustainability initiatives in the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) sector. The ideal candidate should have a passion for environmental stewardship, operational excellence, and the ability to lead teams to achieve ambitious sustainability goals. You should possess a deep understanding of sustainability in business and the ability to integrate eco-friendly practices into all aspects of the organization.
Proven Experience in Sustainability and CPG

The client is seeking a seasoned professional with substantial experience in sustainability operations within the CPG industry. You should have a successful track record of implementing and scaling sustainability programs, optimizing resources, and driving environmentally conscious practices across business operations. Experience with eco-friendly product development, sustainable supply chains, and compliance with environmental regulations is highly valued.
Strategic Vision for Sustainability

As the Vice President of Sustainability Operations, you will need to demonstrate your ability to craft and implement a strategic sustainability plan that aligns with the company’s growth objectives. The ideal candidate will possess the ability to identify opportunities for sustainable innovation, drive resource efficiency, and integrate green practices into the company’s broader operational strategy. The client values a leader who can anticipate emerging sustainability trends and lead the company in adapting to industry changes while driving environmental impact.
Strong Leadership and Team Development

Leadership is essential in this role, and the client seeks a Vice President who can build, lead, and inspire cross-functional teams. You should foster a culture of sustainability and innovation, ensuring that all employees are engaged and committed to the company’s environmental goals. Experience in managing high-performing teams, developing talent, and working collaboratively across departments will be critical to your success in this position.
Commitment to Eco-Friendly Product Innovation

The client values candidates who have a passion for eco-friendly product innovation. You should have experience collaborating with product development teams to create environmentally sustainable products and packaging solutions. A deep understanding of sustainable product lifecycle management and the ability to drive innovation while maintaining product quality and consumer appeal is crucial to this role.
Data-Driven Decision Maker with Financial Acumen

The ability to make data-driven decisions that support sustainability goals while balancing financial performance is essential. The client seeks a leader who can assess the financial implications of sustainability initiatives, optimize costs, and drive profitability through eco-conscious practices. A strong understanding of cost-benefit analysis, sustainability reporting, and resource allocation is highly desirable.
Strong Stakeholder Engagement and External Representation

The ideal candidate will have experience engaging with external stakeholders, including investors, regulatory bodies, industry associations, and environmental organizations. Your ability to represent the company in sustainability-focused initiatives, build relationships, and secure buy-in for sustainability programs will be critical. The client values leaders who can communicate the company’s sustainability efforts effectively to both internal and external audiences.
Commitment to Operational Excellence and Compliance

The client is looking for a Vice President who has a keen eye for operational efficiency and compliance. You should have a deep understanding of environmental regulations, sustainability certifications, and industry standards to ensure the company’s operations remain compliant and efficient. The ability to identify and mitigate environmental risks while driving continuous improvement is vital in this role.
FAQs About the Role – Vice President of Sustainability Operations – Eco-Friendly CPG
• What are the key responsibilities of the Vice President of Sustainability Operations?

As the Vice President of Sustainability Operations, you will be responsible for leading the company’s sustainability strategy and initiatives, ensuring they are integrated across all operational aspects. This includes reducing the company’s environmental impact, promoting sustainable supply chain practices, and driving eco-friendly product innovation. You will also oversee sustainability reporting, compliance with environmental standards, and stakeholder engagement, while fostering a culture of sustainability within the organization.
• What qualifications and experience are required for this position?

The ideal candidate should have significant experience in sustainability operations within the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry, with a proven track record of implementing environmentally sustainable practices and strategies. Experience in supply chain management, product development, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) is essential. A background in environmental science, sustainability management, or a related field, along with an advanced degree (e.g., MBA or Master’s in Sustainability), is highly preferred.
• What leadership qualities are essential for this role?

We are seeking a leader who is passionate about sustainability and can inspire and motivate teams to drive meaningful change. Strong strategic thinking, excellent decision-making skills, and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams are crucial. You should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with stakeholders, from internal teams to external regulatory bodies and customers. The ability to balance business goals with environmental objectives is key to success in this role.
• What challenges can I expect in this role?

In this role, you will face challenges such as navigating complex environmental regulations, managing the balance between sustainability goals and business growth, and driving operational changes that align with eco-friendly practices. Staying ahead of evolving consumer preferences for sustainable products and implementing cost-effective sustainability solutions will also be key challenges. You will need to manage internal resistance to change and ensure cross-departmental alignment on sustainability initiatives.
• What is the expected impact of the Vice President of Sustainability Operations on the company’s growth?

The Vice President of Sustainability Operations will play a critical role in strengthening the company’s position as a leader in the eco-friendly CPG market. By driving sustainability initiatives that reduce environmental impact, improve efficiency, and introduce innovative products, you will help enhance the company’s brand reputation, attract eco-conscious consumers, and contribute to long-term profitability. Your efforts will also foster stronger relationships with stakeholders, including investors, customers, and regulatory bodies.
• What is the company’s culture and work environment like?

The company values a culture of innovation, collaboration, and accountability. You will be working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment where sustainability is at the core of the business. The organization encourages open communication and continuous improvement, and there is a strong focus on fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. The leadership team is committed to creating a sustainable future and supports initiatives that drive both environmental and business success.
What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?

As the Vice President of Sustainability Operations – Eco-Friendly CPG in Chicago, IL, you can expect a competitive and comprehensive compensation package, reflecting the critical nature of the role and the expertise required. The remuneration for this position is designed to attract top-level talent who are committed to driving sustainability initiatives while contributing to the company’s growth and long-term success. The compensation package typically includes the following components:

1. Base Salary

The base salary for a Vice President of Sustainability Operations varies depending on the size and market position of the company. In an established eco-friendly Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) company, the annual base salary typically ranges from $200,000 to $350,000. Larger organizations or companies with a more extensive product portfolio may offer higher base salaries, reflecting the level of responsibility and impact expected from this role.

2. Performance-Based Bonuses

In addition to the base salary, the Vice President of Sustainability Operations can expect performance-based bonuses tied to key sustainability metrics and company growth. These bonuses are typically based on goals such as achieving sustainability targets, reducing environmental impact, and contributing to profitability. Performance bonuses can range from 25% to 75% of the base salary, depending on individual and company-wide performance.

3. Equity & Stock Options

Many companies offer equity-based incentives to their senior executives, including stock options or restricted stock units (RSUs). These incentives align the compensation of the Vice President with the long-term success of the company and can provide significant financial rewards. Equity grants are typically determined by the company’s performance, valuation, and growth potential, and may form a substantial portion of the total compensation package.

4. Long-Term Incentive Plans (LTIPs) & Profit-Sharing

To encourage long-term commitment to the company’s sustainability goals, some companies provide Long-Term Incentive Plans (LTIPs) or profit-sharing programs. These programs reward the Vice President for achieving sustained environmental and financial success over multiple years. LTIPs or profit-sharing can represent an additional significant portion of the overall compensation, ensuring alignment with the company’s long-term performance and stability.

5. Executive Benefits & Perks

As part of the executive package, the Vice President of Sustainability Operations will receive a robust benefits package, including:
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) or pension plans with company contributions
• Executive retirement plans
• Company-provided vehicles or travel allowances
• Wellness programs and executive health benefits
• Expense accounts for business-related travel and networking events

6. Signing Bonuses & Relocation Assistance

For highly qualified candidates, the company may offer a signing bonus or relocation assistance to help ease the transition into this important role. These one-time incentives can range from $25,000 to $100,000, depending on the candidate's experience and the company's relocation needs.
Total Compensation Potential

When factoring in base salary, performance bonuses, stock options, long-term incentives, and benefits, the total annual compensation for a Vice President of Sustainability Operations in the CPG sector can range from $300,000 to $600,000 or more, depending on the company’s size and market performance. Companies with a strong commitment to sustainability and rapid growth may offer additional lucrative incentives to attract and retain top talent in this pivotal leadership position.
How to Apply

If you are a strategic and forward-thinking leader with a passion for sustainability and a proven track record in the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry, we invite you to apply for the Vice President of Sustainability Operations – Eco-Friendly CPG role in Chicago, IL. This is a unique opportunity to lead and implement sustainability initiatives, drive eco-friendly product innovation, and make a lasting impact in the rapidly growing CPG sector.

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your experience in sustainability leadership, eco-friendly product development, resource optimization, and sustainability reporting. Highlight your ability to drive change, foster a culture of sustainability, and lead cross-functional teams to meet ambitious environmental goals. We are particularly interested in your expertise in integrating sustainability into operations, managing supply chains, and achieving measurable sustainability outcomes.

This role offers a high-impact career opportunity where you will shape the future of the company’s sustainability efforts, engage with key stakeholders, and contribute to long-term environmental and business success. Apply today to take the next step in your leadership career as Vice President of Sustainability Operations in the eco-friendly CPG industry in Chicago, IL!

For more information or to explore similar opportunities, visit our Sustainability Executive Recruiters Page.

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Vice President of Sustainability Operations | Eco-Friendly CPG Jobs | Sustainability Leadership | Environmental Stewardship | Eco-Friendly Product Innovation | Sustainability Strategy | CPG Industry Careers | Operations & Sustainability Integration | Green Business Solutions