JOURNAL ARTICLE

Middle Management Is the Key to Sustainability.

  • Published In: Harvard Business Review, 2023, v. 101, n. 6. P. 102 1 of 3

  • Database: Business Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Winston, Andrew; Polman, Paul; Seabright, Jeff 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on the critical role of midlevel executives and team leaders in advancing corporate sustainability efforts across four stages of organizational maturity: lagging and skeptical, building a base, accelerating, and leading. It outlines how these midlevel managers, often without formal sustainability titles, drive progress by building capabilities, fostering internal buy-in, setting ambitious goals, and expanding external partnerships. Companies at higher maturity levels empower these leaders to embed sustainability deeply into business functions, engage in cross-sector collaborations, and pursue transformative impacts such as net positive outcomes. The article emphasizes that sustained commitment from both senior leadership and midlevel champions is essential for companies to address complex environmental and social challenges effectively.

Additional Information

  • Source:Harvard Business Review. 2023/11, Vol. 101, Issue 6, p102
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Social Sciences and Humanities
  • Publication Date:2023
  • ISSN:0017-8012
  • Accession Number:172762613
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