Keynote Panel - Why We Need Climate Leadership in 2026

24 Jun 2026
Main Stage Keynote
Keynote

The future of the Chief Sustainability Officer is at a crossroads. Is the role a permanent fixture in the C-suite, or will it become obsolete as sustainability becomes fully integrated? While some argue the CSO is a temporary "builder" role, others believe a dedicated leader is more critical than ever.

In a world defined by climate risk, new regulations, evolving social demands, innovative tech and AI, the modern CSO must balance environmental impact with the need for economic growth and shareholder returns.

This panel will explore this central paradox with leaders from the C-suite sharing lessons from the front lines of corporate sustainability. By drawing on their personal job experience and strategic choices, they will ask what it truly takes to succeed as a CSO and what their future holds.

Moderator
Rachel Solomon Williams
Rachel Solomon Williams, Executive Director - Aldersgate Group
Speakers
Marian D’Auria
Marian D’Auria, Chief Sustainability Officer - M&G Plc
Susan Aitken
Susan Aitken, Leader - Glasgow City Council
Adele Cheli
Adele Cheli, Global Vice President, Sustainability - GSK
Erin Meezan
Erin Meezan, CSO - JLL / Executive Director - JLL Foundation - JLL