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Course Overview
Today, leadership means looking beyond immediate business results and considering the impact decisions have on people and the planet. The CMI Level 7 Award in Strategic Sustainability Leadership (RQF) helps experienced professionals understand how sustainability can shape organisational strategy and long-term performance. Awarded by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) and regulated by Ofqual, this qualification is designed for current and aspiring leaders who want to make sustainability a meaningful part of their decision-making.
Through this Level 7 sustainability leadership course, you'll explore global challenges such as climate change, resource scarcity and inequality. You'll also evaluate how frameworks and agreements, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals, Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and Paris Agreement, can influence organisational objectives. The course examines leadership strategies and emerging technologies that can support more sustainable practices. It's suitable for managers and leaders responsible for setting direction, and you don't need a technical background to get started.
With Global Edulink, you can study this CMI Level 7 sustainability qualification online at your own pace while balancing your professional responsibilities. The guided learning is estimated at around 20 hours, so studying for approximately two hours per day could allow you to complete it in about 10 days. Mentor support is available throughout your studies, and a single written assignment gives you the opportunity to apply your learning to your own organisation or sector. There are no formal examinations.
Completing this Level 7 strategic sustainability qualification may support career ambitions in sustainability leadership, including roles such as Head of Sustainability or Director of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), depending on your experience. You can also explore progression to the CMI Level 7 Certificate or Diploma in Strategic Sustainability Leadership. Further CMI membership and qualification pathways may provide additional professional development opportunities, subject to the relevant eligibility requirements. By strengthening your approach to sustainability, you can help guide organisations towards decisions that consider both business performance and their wider impact.
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Course Highlights
Self-paced online study that fits around a senior role.
A regulated CMI qualification built around the principles of strategic sustainability leadership.
Content based on current frameworks, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals and international reporting standards.
A clear route to the Certificate, the Diploma and Foundation Chartered Manager status.
Why Choose This Course?
Experience a flexible and supportive learning journey with comprehensive course materials, dedicated guidance and valuable features designed to help you successfully complete your qualification.
Why Study With Global Edulink
Global Edulink combines endorsed programmes with flexible delivery, expert mentors, and learner-first support.
Get certified with industry-recognised accreditations and awarding bodies
24/7 access to a digital study portal for flexible learning
Affordable pricing, discounts, and instalment-free payment plans
Self-paced online study
Dedicated Mentor Support
Expert – designed course content
Learning Outcomes
Critically evaluate the sustainability frameworks that influence organisational strategic planning.
Discuss the global sustainability challenges that affect strategic planning.
Critically evaluate the approaches that promote strategic sustainability goals.
Appraise how emerging trends and technologies shape sustainability goals.
Who is This Course For?
- •Practising senior managers and directors who set the strategic direction of an organisation.
- •Aspiring strategic leaders who want to take on responsibility for sustainability.
- •Professionals from non-technical backgrounds who need to lead sustainability work.
- •Learners who want a Level 7 award in sustainability leadership that they can study online.
This qualification may suit people from different academic & professional backgrounds, including those not listed above. Speak to a course advisor to check your eligibility and career options.
Entry Requirements
The course is suitable for learners aged 18 and above.
There are no additional national entry requirements to fulfil.
We understand that every learner has a different educational and professional background. If you do not see your qualification listed or are unsure whether you meet the entry requirements, our team is happy to help. We also welcome applicants without formal qualifications, particularly where relevant work experience or other learning can demonstrate suitability for the course.
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Our Course Advisers Are Here to Help
Get personalised guidance and ongoing support by reaching out to your course adviser.
Skills Gained
This course gives you practical leadership skills that you can use in your role straight away, with support at every stage.
Judge global sustainability challenges and their effect on strategic planning.
Compare sustainability frameworks and standards, and use them to set organisational goals.
Choose leadership approaches that engage people and drive sustainability, such as target setting and partnerships.
Assess how new technologies and trends can support sustainability goals.
Course Curriculum
18 Guided Learning Hours
CMI
Awarded by
The Chartered Management Institute (CMI) was established in 1947 and is the UK’s leading professional body for management and leadership. CMI qualifications and membership support individuals in developing effective management skills, strengthening leadership capability, and progressing in their professional careers.
Course Advantages
Make the most of our extra support.
Learn about your progression options after you complete the course.
Study through professionally narrated e-learning modules.
Gain both theory and practical sustainability leadership skills.
Improve your employability with knowledge that employers value.
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Feeling Uncertain? Looking for Guidance?
Reach out to your course adviser for valuable insights and professional support.
Method of Assessment
Written assignments for each unit
Assessed internally, with external moderation by CMI
No end-of-course examinations
Graded Pass or Refer. You pass when you meet every assessment criterion.
Certification
Upon successful completion of this course, you will be awarded the CMI Level 7 Award in Strategic Sustainability Leadership (RQF), awarded by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI).
Career Progression
After you complete this qualification, you can apply for senior roles with responsibility for sustainability.
1
Director of ESG
A$90,000 Approx./pa
2
Head of Sustainability
A$80,000 Approx./pa
3
Sustainability Programme Manager
A$75,000 Approx./pa
Academic Progression
Successfully completing this qualification can help you with further study.
Top up to the CMI Level 7 Certificate in Strategic Sustainability Leadership.
Continue to the CMI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Sustainability Leadership.
Apply for Foundation Chartered Manager status.
Our Student Reviews
Bailey Anderson
Oct 1, 2026
4.7
Kent Alexendra
Sep 24, 2026
4.6
Warren Burgess
Sep 20, 2026
4.7
Jackson Byrne
Sep 16, 2026
4.7
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