Building Sustainable Business Strategy

Why is this important?
Sustainability and ESG are no longer merely reputation-related topics but strategic management issues that influence competitiveness, access to capital, and regulatory compliance. Leaders must understand how evolving expectations and regulations are reshaping business models and why sustainability makes strong business sense.

What will happen?
In the opening session, we map key sustainability and ESG trends in both global and European contexts. We explore the business case for sustainability – why and how it creates organisational value. Through practical examples, we examine companies that have embedded sustainability into their strategic objectives and establish a shared understanding of the course framework and expectations.

Why is this important?
A clear ambition and focus form the foundation of any effective strategy. Without a defined direction and objectives, sustainability initiatives risk becoming fragmented and failing to support long-term organisational development.

What will happen?
Participants form teams and select a practical case on which to build their Sustainability Playbook. Teams define the sustainability ambition of their chosen organisation and identify key challenges and opportunities. ESG themes are connected to business context and strategic priorities.

Why is this important?
The impact of a strategy depends on its implementation. A sustainability vision must translate into clear objectives, measurable indicators, and concrete actions embedded in everyday management practices.

What will happen?
Teams develop a strategic roadmap for their case, including goal setting, prioritisation, and action planning. We examine risks, opportunities, and performance metrics, linking them to long-term business success. The focus is on practical tools that make strategy actionable and results-oriented.

Why is this important?
A sustainability strategy cannot function in isolation; it must be integrated across organisational functions and communicated clearly to both internal and external stakeholders. Effective communication reduces the risk of greenwashing and strengthens trust.

What will happen?
We analyse how sustainability strategy connects with key business functions such as HR, marketing, and finance. Participants practice shaping clear messages and presenting strategy to different stakeholder groups. Teams refine their Sustainability Playbook, ensuring coherence, clarity, and impact.

Why is this important?
Leading sustainability requires strategic thinking, resilience, and collaboration skills. Leaders play a central role in shaping an organisational culture that supports long-term, responsible growth.

What will happen?
Teams present their completed Sustainability Playbook and share key insights and lessons learned. Participants receive feedback from faculty and peers. We conclude by discussing leadership challenges in sustainability roles, the required mindset, and professional development pathways to succeed in responsible leadership positions.

Entry requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
• At least 3 years of work experience in business or entrepreneurship
• Valid temporary residence permit or EU citizenship.

Course completion requirements

To successfully complete the course and receive a certificate, participants must actively participate in sessions, complete independent assignments, and submit a final presentation

Evaluation includes active participation in class, one individual assignment, and a team-based final project (Sustainability Playbook).

Assessment is based on the achievement of the learning outcomes and the student’s ability to connect ESG principles with strategic management and practical business decision-making.

The courses takes place at EBS’s modern campus in Tallinn, Lauteri 3. Students have access to ergonomic classrooms, the EBS library, and the cloud-based Canvas learning platform. The study process is supported by online tools such as Canvas and MS Teams. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building.