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Course Overview
Sustainability leadership requires more than understanding environmental issues. It calls for the ability to shape strategy, lead organisational change and turn long-term goals into meaningful action. The CMI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Sustainability Leadership (RQF) helps experienced professionals develop these capabilities. Awarded by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) and regulated by Ofqual, this qualification is the largest in the sustainability suite and is designed for managers and leaders responsible for setting organisational direction, including those without a technical background.
Through this Level 7 sustainability leadership course, you'll explore global challenges and the frameworks that influence organisational sustainability goals. You'll learn how to establish strategic priorities, lead implementation and report on results, while examining recognised models for managing systemic change. The diploma also includes a strategic sustainability project, giving you the opportunity to design, carry out and evaluate an initiative relevant to your own organisation or sector.
With Global Edulink, you can study this CMI Level 7 sustainability qualification online while balancing your professional responsibilities. The diploma includes 160 guided learning hours and an estimated 400 hours of total study time, allowing you to progress at your own pace with tutor and mentor guidance. Each of the four units is assessed through a written assignment, so you can apply your learning to real organisational situations. There are no formal examinations, and each unit is graded Pass or Refer.
Completing this Level 7 strategic sustainability diploma 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. CMI membership may also make you eligible for Foundation Chartered Manager status, while managers with at least three years of relevant management and leadership experience may be eligible to apply for Chartered Manager status, subject to CMI requirements. You can also explore further study through CMI Level 7 qualifications in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice.
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Course Highlights
Self-paced online study that fits around a senior role.
A regulated CMI qualification that covers sustainability strategy, systemic change and project delivery.
Four focused units, including a project that you can base on your own organisation.
A clear route to Foundation Chartered Manager and 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 and leadership strategies that shape organisational strategic planning.
Evaluate how sustainability priorities shape strategy, and how to implement, measure and report on it.
Appraise the drivers of and barriers to strategic change, and develop a strategic change plan.
Design, carry out and reflect on a strategic sustainability project.
Who is This Course For?
- •Senior managers and directors responsible for setting organisational strategy and driving sustainable business practices.
- •Aspiring strategic leaders who want to develop the skills to lead sustainability initiatives and influence organisational decisions.
- •Professionals responsible for developing and implementing sustainability strategies, managing change, and leading sustainability projects.
- •Learners seeking a full Level 7 qualification in strategic sustainability leadership through flexible online study.
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 use frameworks to set strategic goals.
Choose tools to set priorities, lead implementation and report on results.
Build a strategic change plan, supported by recognised change models.
Design and deliver a sustainability project and reflect on its outcomes.
Course Curriculum
138 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.
Need more information
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 Diploma 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
£90,000 Approx./pa
2
Head of Sustainability
£80,000 Approx./pa
3
Sustainability Programme Manager
£75,000 Approx./pa
Academic Progression
Successfully completing this qualification can help you with further study.
Apply for Foundation Chartered Manager status.
Apply for Chartered Manager status, with three years of management and leadership experience.
Move on to the CMI Level 7 qualifications in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice.
Our Student Reviews
Regan Moore
Sep 15, 2026
4.7
Ernest Jones
Sep 6, 2026
4.6
Rose Howard
Sep 25, 2026
4.8
Lilly Armstrong
Aug 27, 2026
4.5
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