VP, Sustainability

Summary

Responsible for developing the sustainability strategy, plans, programs, and initiatives for NYPA and the Canal Corporation that support the strategic vision and New York State’s ambitious climate and energy goals. Provides strategic guidance and technical expertise for identified material environmental, social, and governance (ESG) areas, including analysis of operational performance and impacts (greenhouse gas accounting, life-cycle analysis, cost-benefit analysis). Manages sustainability programs and leads cross-functional teams in project development and implementation. Leads development of internal sustainability goals, targets and metrics. Tracks and reports ESG performance and prepares annual NYPA reports as well as state and industry reports.

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Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive sustainability strategy aligned with NYPA’s mission, values, and long-term goals.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to integrate sustainability into business planning and decision-making processes. 
• Serve as a strategic advisor on governmental, political or communications-related sustainability issues to ensure the concerns of the community are heard and understood.
• Promote NYPA’s position in the industry as a leader in environmental concerns, corporate citizenship, and social responsibility. 
• Establish and promote sustainability policies and practices across the organization. Support compliance through effective communication, training and change management. 
• Lead the development and implementation of sustainability programs, including waste reduction, energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainable sourcing.
• Oversee projects and initiatives aimed at reducing the company's carbon footprint and enhancing resource efficiency. 
• Lead on assessment of opportunities to enhance climate resilience and biodiversity on NYPA land and offset the unavoidable impacts of NYPA transmission and renewables development.
• Develop business cases for implementation of sustainability programs and projects that consider business value, operational impacts, environmental outcomes, social benefits, and cost/customer affordability.
• Engage with internal and external stakeholders to foster collaboration and support for sustainability initiatives. Source and develop strategic relationships, including with local and state elected officials.
• Represent NYPA at industry conferences, forums, and working groups focused on sustainability. Influence direction of research, collaborative efforts and strategies that are aligned with NYPA and State goals.
• Develop and maintain robust sustainability reporting systems to track progress and measure the impact of initiatives.
• Prepare and present sustainability reports to the board of directors, investors, and other stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of emerging trends, technologies, and best practices in sustainability. Maintain the highest level of expertise in the field of energy and the environment including, but not limited to energy efficiency, energy services, transmission, climate change, renewable generation, and the marketplace.
• Identify opportunities for innovation and continuous improvement in sustainability practices.
• Build and lead a high-performing sustainability team, providing mentorship, guidance, and professional development opportunities.
• Position the sustainability team as a strategic partner to the business, providing data, insights and expertise to enhance and protect the company’s value and reputation 
• Foster a culture of sustainability and environmental stewardship throughout the organization.
   

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong understanding of sustainability principles, environmental regulations, and sustainability reporting frameworks (e.g., GRI, CDP, SASB).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically and drive organizational change.
• Passion for sustainability and a commitment to making a positive impact on the environment and society.
• Basic knowledge of the energy industry and understanding of operational and environmental considerations in the electric power sector 
• Ability to leverage relationships with key internal and external stakeholders. Ability to negotiate, compromise and maintain relationships. 
• Mastery in working with community groups and opinion makers.
• Understanding of the changing regulatory environment. 
• Strong verbal, written and presentation skills with the ability and desire to work in diverse communities.
• Excellent organization and planning.