Episode 296: Climate Change, Sustainability, and Communities of Color
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Have you ever thought about how much climate change impacts our communities and particularly communities of color? This next episode of Beyond The Business Suit, host Kailei Carr is joined by Michael Littlejohn, Founder and Managing Director of Sustainability Services Group, and Kahlilah Guyah, CEO of EHS Compliance Services Inc. Together, they have an in-depth discussion on climate change, sustainability and how organizations can aid in the advancement of these important issues. Not only do Michael and Kahlilah explain their career journeys and what ignited their interest in these areas, but they also discuss what they are doing individually and within their families to make more conscious decisions. While Michael reveals his six characteristics of climate driven impact, Kahlilah tells us the three E's she uses to teach others of the measures they can take in their own lives to combat these issues. From greenwashing, to supply chain, to the racial wealth gap and more, you will be sure to learn a lot from this conversation.
You can watch the video of our LinkedIn Live conversation here:
ABOUT MICHAEL LITTLEJOHN:
Michael is a diverse leader, seasoned senior executive, entrepreneur, consultant, and driver of transformation with more than 35 years of experience with 3 global professional services and technology firms (PwC, IBM, and Ernst and Young). Over that time, Michael held numerous leadership roles with positions in General Management, Delivery/Practice Management, Strategic Growth, and Large Account Management. He has led services businesses with as many as 1,200 staff, and he has managed professional services P&Ls in the $100-$300m (US) range. He has had responsibility for designing portfolios of strategic growth services; and he has served as the lead client relationship executive for multiple large accounts generating up to $60m in annual fees. Michael has also been part of the integration team for multiple mergers/acquisitions, has overseen the divestiture of a services business, and has built and led the internal transformation unit of a Fortune 50 Technology company.
In 2022, Michael founded the Sustainability Services Group (SSG) a consulting firm focused on delivering advisory services in support of sustainability and climate change. Prior to founding SSG, Michael served as the Sustainability leader within EY’s public sector business where he was responsible for developing the strategy, and executing plays, for ESG and climate-related opportunities. He was also a member of the EY Public Sector Leadership Team. Prior to that role, Michael served 5 years as a Coordinating Partner overseeing EY’s Government business within NY State, and as an advisor to EY’s global Smart & Sustainable Cities initiative.
ABOUT KAHLILAH GUYAH:
Kahlilah is an entrepreneurial leader who has risen in the ranks of her profession during her nearly 25 year career. Kahlilah is the CEO at EHS Compliance Services Inc., a consulting firm that helps organizations create and implement strategies to protect workers, the environment, and corporate reputation. Kahlilah is a highly sought speaker who has been featured at national and organizational conferences across the US. She is the author of the article, “EHS Professionals: Elevate Your Impact Through Integrating Psychosocial Hazards” featured in the Winter 2022 edition of Leader. When not working with clients, you can find Kahlilah mentoring emerging EHS professionals, and participating in her hobbies: yoga and spending time with her family.
QUOTABLES:
“We are in the midst of this evolution.” – Kahlilah Guyah
“The topic of sustainability and climate change is the most important topic I have consulted on throughout my entire career. It’s an existential issue.” – Michael Littlejohn
“We tend to be a more vulnerable population.” – Kahlilah Guyah
“It’s no secret that the most traditionally underserved, the most underfunded communities are vulnerable to climate change.” – Michael Littlejohn
How to stay connected with Michael Littlejohn:
LinkedIn: Michael V Littlejohn, CC-P
Website: ssgglobal.org
How to stay connected with Kahlilah Guyah:
LinkedIn: Kahlilah (Jennings) Guyah, CHMM, CSP
Website: ehscsi.com
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