Does Your Organisation Identify as a Sustainable Business?
As a sustainability consultant, I am often called upon to diagnose and address a familiar yet complex challenge: embedding sustainability into the core of an organisation’s operations. While many organisations set ambitious sustainability goals, the journey from aspiration to action often stalls at the point of integration—where sustainable practices must underpin and enhance the everyday functions and tasks that bring their offering to life.
This challenge is not merely about defining what sustainability means in theory; it is about making it practical, measurable, and deeply woven into the organisational fabric. Whether it’s aligning procurement strategies with sustainable supply chains, embedding environmental considerations into product design, or ensuring that social value permeates community engagement initiatives, the goal is the same: to create a seamless alignment between sustainability objectives and business processes.
The malaise, however, often lies in the execution. Sustainability can be perceived as an external add-on rather than an intrinsic part of the organisation’s DNA. This disconnect can result in fragmented efforts, missed opportunities, and a lack of genuine impact. My role, therefore, is to bridge this gap by helping organisations identify the barriers to integration, design tailored solutions, and build the capacity needed to sustain these changes.
In this journey, I have observed that the most successful organisations are those that view sustainability not as a compliance requirement but as a strategic enabler—one that drives innovation, enhances stakeholder trust, and secures long-term viability. The path to embedding sustainability may be complex, but its rewards are transformative, both for the organisation and the world it touches. This work is my passion, and it is my privilege to guide organisations in making sustainability an integral part of their identity and operations.
About the Author
Omar Hadjel, MCIM, is a dynamic sustainability consultant and bid support specialist with a unique blend of expertise in marketing, business development, and sustainable practices. A certified GRI Sustainability Professional and a member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing, Omar helps organisations navigate the complexities of embedding sustainability into their operations while driving measurable impact and growth.
With extensive experience working across diverse industries, Omar has successfully guided businesses in aligning their sustainability goals with global frameworks, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and GRI Standards. He is passionate about fostering collaboration, bridging cultural and linguistic gaps, and helping organisations achieve their vision of becoming responsible and sustainable entities.
Omar is also a seasoned writer and speaker, delivering thought leadership articles, workshops, and webinars on sustainability, social value, and public procurement. Known for his approachable and pragmatic style, he empowers organisations and individuals to take actionable steps toward a more sustainable future. When not consulting, Omar enjoys traveling and exploring innovative ways to blend sustainability with real-world solutions.
