Master in Sustainability and Business Transformation
Master in Sustainability and Business Transformation
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Your journey to the Next Best You starts here
Your journey to the Next Best You starts here
Becoming the Next Best You means using your talents to drive sustainable business innovation and change that benefits the environment. In the Master in Sustainability & Business Transformation, your journey is built on three pillars: career, impact and purpose. You’ll define your professional path while you develop the strategic, behavioral and analytical skills to transform organizations. You’ll also align your values with the challenges facing our planet, ensuring your work brings long-lasting social and environmental impact.
Your journey will be fueled by the Career Discovery Accelerator, Impact Skills Accelerator and Purpose Accelerator. Embedded throughout the program, these experiences help you clarify your career direction, develop future-ready skills and build a leadership style that’s grounded in responsibility and empathy. Through immersive workshops, collaborative projects and real-world business challenges, you’ll gain the tools to make informed and impactful decisions.
This program is not just about academic learning, it’s a catalyst for personal and professional evolution. With each step, you’ll get closer to a version of yourself that can influence organizations, inspire people and create a difference for the planet. The Next Best You won’t just be prepared for the future—it will be ready to shape it.
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
KEEP CHASING THE NEXT BEST YOU
KEEP CHASING THE NEXT BEST YOU
YOUR CAREER
Where are you going and how will you get there? Defining your career ambitions is a fundamental part of this program’s journey. That’s why we help you understand your motivations and goals, explore your options and get on the career path that’s best for you. Leveraging our constant dialogue with the business community and our analysis of labor market data, we’ve organized the program into an array of future-proof career paths that will arm you with the skill set recruiters demand.
YOUR IMPACT
The ability to make big things happen comes down to your thoughts, behavior and digital skills. Organizations want people who can make a genuine difference—professionals who maximize resources and inspire their teams to overcome pressing challenges. The Master in Sustainability & Business Transformation is designed to optimize who you are by developing skills related to how you think, how you behave in real situations and how you relate to technology. Transformation isn’t easy, but it’s an integral part of your journey to empowerment and will give you skills that last a lifetime.
YOUR PURPOSE
We know that being a business professional comes with responsibilities. At the same time, using your position to create a better world can improve your life satisfaction and keep the fire of motivation burning. That’s why it’s our mission to help you define, refine and align your own unique purpose with your career. If you’re ready to forge better social, economic and environmental practices and integrate them into your business strategy, we invite you to form part of a new movement led by the next generation of professionals committed to making the world a better place.
YOUR CAREER
YOUR CAREER
CAREER DISCOVERY ACCELERATOR
CAREER DISCOVERY ACCELERATOR
The Career Discovery Accelerator, embedded in the Master in Sustainability & Business Transformation, helps you explore your passions, assess career options and align them with your personal and professional ambitions. With expert guidance, tailored workshops and valuable market insights, you’ll gain the direction and confidence to build a career that brings out the next best you.
IE Talent & Careers: helping you succeed from day one
IE Talent & Careers: helping you succeed from day one
At IE Business School, your professional success is our priority. From the moment you join the Master in Sustainability & Business Transformation, IE Talent & Careers will be there to support you, helping you prepare for your journey, refine your career vision and connect with the best global opportunities.
CAREER COACHING & STRATEGY
Work one-on-one with a dedicated career coach to shape your career plan, build a strong job-search strategy and perfect your CV, cover letters and LinkedIn profile. Gain expert advice tailored to specific industries, roles and markets. Take advantage of our integrated Career Success Course and targeted training sessions, including bootcamps, mock interviews and assessment centers.
EMPLOYER CONNECTIONS & NETWORKING
Engage directly with recruiters through a broad range of events, including career fairs, company presentations, coffee chats and international virtual opportunities. Expand your network by connecting with IE Alumni and joining professional student clubs.
TOOLS & RESOURCES
Make the most of premium, AI-powered career tools to research companies, practice interview skills and manage job applications. Enjoy lifelong access to the IE Career Portal, ensuring you have the guidance and resources you need long after graduation.
DEBUNKING MYTHS: UNLOCKING YOUR IMPACTFUL FUTURE IN SUSTAINABILITY AND BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION
DEBUNKING MYTHS: UNLOCKING YOUR IMPACTFUL FUTURE IN SUSTAINABILITY AND BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION
In a world swiftly moving towards integrating sustainable practices into all aspects of life and work, the Master's in Sustainability and Business Transformation emerges as a key pathway for those seeking not only to effect positive change in society and the environment but also to pursue a meaningful and rewarding career.
The Reality Behind the Myths
Many have heard that careers in sustainability are neither stable nor lucrative, or that incorporating sustainable practices into business processes is just a passing trend. These myths are not only unfounded but also hinder progress and understanding, widening the gap between ambition and action.
Voices from the Field: The Realities and Rewards of Careers in Sustainability
Voices from the Field: The Realities and Rewards of Careers in Sustainability
To shed light on the realities of careers in sustainable business, we’ve brought together insights from our IE Business School alumni who are thriving in this dynamic field. Through a series of interviews, they share their experiences, challenges, and the impact they are making.
Join us as we debunk the myths and explore the exciting possibilities that a career in sustainability and business can offer.
Gema Bernabeu
Business Development- iSiMAR
“Everyday more, many companies are introducing sustainability into their operations. For example, as it has been in my case, since I graduated from IE University, I’ve been involved in the renewable energy sector as a Business Developer in the solar industry and software companies."
Christian Barba Rodulfo
International Business Development -EDP Renewables
"In the renewable industry, sustainability drives everything we do, involving specialists in areas like venture capital and innovation. The growth potential is vast; for instance, renewable power purchase agreements are expected to grow 40% annually due to corporate sustainability targets. This underscores the significant opportunities ahead."
Sandra Vidal Sánchez
Lead Sustainability Manager - ABB Motion Southern Europe and Spain
As the Lead Sustainability Manager at AAB Motion Services, Sandra says that a turning point in her career was her involvement in the design of a new business model based on the circular economy. The project opened her eyes to the fact that focusing on sustainability really can benefit a company’s bottom line. “This model demonstrates how improving sustainability and economic profitability can go hand in hand.”
THE BLUEPRINT FOR A THRIVING SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS CAREER
THE BLUEPRINT FOR A THRIVING SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS CAREER
So, what does it take to be a sustainability business professional? What kind of responsibilities and projects will you be taking on? What will your day to day look like? The projects and initiatives you'll undertake will vary based on your area of focus, but after graduation, you can expect to embrace a wide range of responsibilities, such as:
sustainability strategies and plans
Develop and implement sustainability strategies and plans aligned with the organization's values and goals and industry best practices.
environmental impact assessments
Conduct environmental impact assessments of business operations and products to identify opportunities for improvement and reduce the company's ecological footprint.
internal and external stakeholders
Engage internal and external stakeholders, such as employees, suppliers, customers and communities, to encourage collaboration, foster a culture of sustainability and garner support for sustainable initiatives.
marketing materials and campaigns
Ensure all marketing materials and campaigns align with the company's sustainability values and messaging, fostering a cohesive and authentic brand image.
ethical practices
Promote ethical practices and ensure compliance with environmental regulations and social responsibility standards.
Drive innovation
Drive innovation through solutions and technologies that promote sustainability and integrate them into your organization's practices.
sustainability metrics
Monitor sustainability metrics and provide transparent reporting on the company's progress toward sustainability goals.
sourcing of sustainable materials and products
Encourage the sourcing of sustainable materials and products to foster responsible supply chain practices.
social impact
Title
Advocate for social impact by supporting initiatives that positively contribute to local communities and social well-being.
external partnerships
Value the importance of external partnerships and collaborate with like-minded organizations, NGOs and sustainability-focused groups to drive collective action toward sustainability goals.
sustainability-conscious culture
Promote a sustainability-conscious culture within your organization, inspiring employees to adopt sustainable practices in their daily work and decision-making.
investment opportunities
Conduct impact investment analysis, assessing investment opportunities that align with environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria.
design and launch innovative financial products
Develop, design and launch innovative green financial products that encourage sustainable practices.
develop and refine business
Develop and refine innovative business models that address environmental or social challenges while remaining financially sustainable.
EXCITING ROLES IN THE WORLD OF SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS
EXCITING ROLES IN THE WORLD OF SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS
Sustainable business has an incredible variety of roles to dive into, so make sure you take your time finding the ones that really resonate with you and will empower you to make a difference.
Career Opportunities
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YOUR IMPACT
YOUR IMPACT
Impact Skills Accelerator
Impact Skills Accelerator
In the Impact Skills Accelerator, you’ll develop key leadership, communication and critical-thinking abilities essential for today’s sustainability leaders. Through immersive workshops and complex real-world business challenges, you’ll strengthen your ability to adapt, solve pressing issues and influence change—preparing you to drive transformation and create strategies that balance profitability with environmental and social responsibility.
PILLARS Your Impact
PILLARS Your Impact
Thinking Skills
As a purposeful sustainability business professional, your thinking skills will be crucial in addressing complex challenges. In the Master in Sustainability & Business Transformation, we will present you with hands-on experiences, case studies and interactive projects to equip you with vital analytical thinking skills. You’ll learn to analyze data, trends and patterns, gaining insights into the environmental and social impacts of business practices.
Behavioral Skills
Behavioral skills are essential for achieving sustainable outcomes. As a true changemaker, you will champion sustainability principles while motivating and influencing others to embrace these principles and implement sustainable strategies. In the program, we embrace diversity, recognizing that different nationalities, backgrounds, training and experiences bring valuable perspectives and insights, reflecting the collaborative nature of real-world sustainability teams.
dIGITAL Skills
Digital skills are vital for business sustainability professionals to thrive. Our teaching combines the most up-to-date and effective methods, utilizing a wide range of multimedia tools such as simulators, interactive visuals, videos and podcasts, along with interactive case studies and technical notes. Our program is designed to cater to all learning styles, ensuring engaging content regardless of your preferred method.
Your Purpose
Your Purpose
PURPOSE ACCELERATOR
PURPOSE ACCELERATOR
The Purpose Accelerator is designed to connect your career goals with your deeper values. Through guided reflection, hands-on learning and community engagement, you’ll discover what drives you on both a personal and professional level. Supported by a collaborative network of mentors and peers, you’ll build a leadership style rooted in purpose and long-term impact.
Driving Results Through Purpose
Driving Results Through Purpose
Planet
Sustainability is now crucial to responsible business. At IE Business School, we call it Sustainable Business, and it’s a key element of the Master in Sustainability & Business Transformation. By embracing the strength inherent in sustainability as a driver for success, businesses actively contribute to the preservation of our planet's resources and ecosystems. Innovation, new technologies, reduced carbon emissions, efficient energy usage and responsible waste management collectively contribute to mitigating and adapting to climate change, fostering a healthier environment for future generations.
Society
Putting sustainability at the center of your business strategy doesn’t just help the environment—it ripples out to the broader society, benefitting local communities and beyond. By engaging in ethical sourcing and supporting local suppliers, businesses can foster goodwill and trust, create lasting partnerships, strengthen societal bonds, generate a positive reputation, and attract more conscious consumers and stakeholders. At IE Business School, we call it Social Entrepreneurship, and it’s woven into the program through hands-on projects and case studies, to help you learn how sustainable practices can create measurable benefits for communities while driving long-term business success.
People
Sustainability also means building workplaces where people can thrive. When employees feel valued and supported, their productivity soars, fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that drives the organization's success. We call this Working Well, and it’s about creating environments built on fairness, diversity and inclusion. You’ll explore how empowering employees, valuing different perspectives and promoting well-being can directly fuel organizational performance—proving that putting people first isn’t just good ethics, it’s good business.
DISCOVER MORE ABOUT OUR ACCELERATORS
DISCOVER MORE ABOUT OUR ACCELERATORS
The Accelerators are an integral part of the program at IE Business School, guiding you through a transformative journey of self-discovery and growth. They provide essential knowledge, competencies, and skills in a focused and comprehensive way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How will the master help define my purpose and career goals?
The program is designed to help you discover and align your personal motivations with a meaningful career path. Through personalized mentoring, leadership development modules, and exposure to real-world sustainability challenges, you'll shape a clear purpose and direction for your professional future. The program fosters self-awareness, critical thinking, and purpose-driven leadership.
What career services and coaching are available?
IE offers comprehensive career support from day one and beyond graduation, including:
- Personalized career coaching and guidance
- Functional and regional career advisors
- A “Career Success” course and specialized bootcamps
- CV and LinkedIn reviews, mock interviews, and assessment centers
- Access to the IE Career Portal with AI-powered tools
- Lifelong career support and alumni services
What roles do graduates typically pursue?
Graduates are well-equipped for roles in:
- Management Consulting
- Strategy & Business Development
- ESG and Sustainability Management
- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
- Innovation & Venture Building
- Industry-specific roles based on your background (e.g., software, engineering, biotech)
How can I build a network in the sustainability field?
You’ll connect with a global community of sustainability professionals through:
- IE’s international alumni network
- Student-led clubs like Net Impact, SDGs Club, Green Club
- Events such as the IE Sustainability Week, TEDx conferences, and networking mixers
- Interaction with top companies, social enterprises, and sustainability leaders
Are there impact-oriented projects and leadership modules?
Yes. The program is highly experiential, including:
- Real-world business challenges with companies
- Business Transformation Treks to visit sustainability pioneers
- Courses focused on leadership, negotiation, social influence, and stakeholder engagement
- Storytelling, governance, and systems thinking modules tailored to sustainability leadership
Does the program support entrepreneurship in sustainability?
Absolutely. One of the program’s core pillars is Sustainable Innovation & Entrepreneurship, where you’ll explore:
- Design thinking and venture creation
- Social entrepreneurship and sustainable business models
- Financing, impact investing, and new technologies
- Access to IE’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and startup resources
Are employer connections and recruitment events included?
Yes. You’ll benefit from:
- Corporate presentations and career fairs,On-campus and virtual interviews
- Employer coffee chats and workshops
- Direct access to IE’s vast recruiter network and industry connections
- IE’s Talent & Careers team actively engages with companies to provide exclusive job and internship opportunities.
How does the program prepare me to lead sustainable transformation?
You’ll gain:
- A comprehensive understanding of ESG principles across all business functions
- Tools for integrating sustainability into strategy, operations, marketing, and finance
- Leadership skills to drive behavioral change, mobilize stakeholders, and create long-term impact
- Confidence to become a changemaker, innovator, or sustainability leader in any industry
- The program blends technical, strategic, and human-centered training to empower you to lead meaningful transformation.