Level 5
Junior Level
Sustainability Leadership
CMI Level 5 Certificate in Sustainability Management and Leadership
£1,387.50
Sustainability Leadership
Level-5
CMI Level 5 Award in Sustainability Management and Leadership
The CMI Level 5 Award in Sustainability Management and Leadership is built for forward-thinking middle managers ready to take ownership—not only of organisational outcomes, but of the environmental and social impact that comes with them. In just a single focused module, this concise course empowers you to integrate sustainable practices into day-to-day operations by reducing waste, improving efficiency, and aligning your team with long-term environmental and social goals.
As businesses face increasing pressure to operate responsibly, developing the skills to lead sustainable change from within has become a distinct advantage. Covering core areas such as sustainability principles, operational delivery, management and ethical leadership, the course equips you with the insight and tools to drive meaningful impact where it matters most.
Backed by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), this globally recognised award sets a strong foundation for responsible leadership—and a clear path toward the Level 5 Certificate or Diploma.
At a Glance
Who is it for?
Managers, team leaders and aspiring professional coaches who want to develop advanced coaching skills.
Avg. Completion Time
2–3 Months, studying at your own flexible pace.
Support Period
6 Months full access to the course and support.
All-Inclusive Fees
Course fees cover all costs including assessment and registration.
Course Materials
Learning resources and study guides developed by approved tutors.
Elevate Grade
Comprehensive assessment feedback from your tutor to elevate your knowledge.
Personal Tutor Meeting
Schedule online personal tutor meetings whenever you want.
Flexible Learning
Study from anywhere at your own pace, 100% online.
Study Method
Study 100% online, at your own pace, from anywhere in the world.
Dedicated Tutor Support
Unlimited support from subject matter-expert tutors.
Dedicated Support Desk
Raise queries, request tutor support and ask for a callback.
Unlimited Live Classes
Schedule on-demand live online classes for each module.
Why study CMI Level 5 Award in Sustainability Management and Leadership?
The CMI Level 5 Award in Sustainability Management and Leadership is a recognised qualification designed to equip professionals with the skills needed to lead sustainable change within organisations. It is intended for current and aspiring middle managers who want to embed sustainability into core business practices and lead with both impact and integrity.
This short course, delivered through a single focused module, offers a comprehensive understanding of sustainable leadership. It provides you with the tools to integrate sustainability into strategic and operational decisions, aligning performance with purpose and driving meaningful, long-term value. Mapped to the CMI Professional Standards and aligned with evolving global sustainability priorities, this course supports the development of key leadership skills, including ethical decision-making, stakeholder engagement, risk management, and change leadership.
Recognised by employers and valued across sectors, the award provides a solid foundation for developing as a responsible, future-focused leader—well-prepared to meet the demands of a changing world.
CMI graduates achieve remarkable things:
- 72% agree that their CMI qualification gave them a competitive edge in the job application process.
- 89% agree they use the skills learnt on their accredited qualification in their current role.
- 88% agree that the accredited qualification gave them good career prospects.
- Recent CMI graduates earn a median of 28k compared to just 21k for a typical business studies graduate.
- Employers highly value the qualifications awarded by CMI, and over 80% of managers agree that a CMI qualification is essential to becoming a professional manager.
What is included in CMI Level 5 Award in Sustainability Management and Leadership?
Learning Resources
Comprehensive learning resources and study guides developed by expert tutors, covering all key aspects of the syllabus.
Dedicated Tutor Support
Unlimited dedicated support from subject matter-expert tutors throughout the duration of your studies.
Personal Tutor Meetings
Schedule online personal tutor meetings whenever you want for guidance, support and encouragement.
Dedicated Support Desk Portal
Raise queries, request tutor support and ask for a callback whenever you need guidance and assistance.
Elevate Grade
Your tutors will provide formative assessment feedback for each module, helping you improve your achievements throughout the course.
All-Inclusive Fees
All assessment and registration fees are included in the course fee. No hidden costs.
24-Hour Portal Access
24-hour access to the MyLearnDirect online learning portal for studying at your convenience.
6-Month Support Period
Full access for 6 months from enrolment.
Who is it for?
The CMI Level 5 Award in Sustainability Management and Leadership is designed for middle managers who want to lead sustainable business practices and embed environmental and social responsibility into their management approach.
- Middle managers responsible for driving sustainability initiatives within their function.
- Managers wanting to align team and departmental practice with organisational ESG goals.
- Individuals moving into roles that combine people management with sustainability strategy.
- Managers preparing their organisation for tightening environmental and regulatory expectations.
Course Benefits
For Learners
- Develop an awareness of sustainability management at an operational level
- Develop the skills required for this level of responsibility
Organisational
- Drive sustainability activities in an operational management and leadership role
- Develops sustainability management capability to help your organisation thrive and implement sustainability strategies
Why Choose CMI Qualifications at SBTL?
CMI (the Chartered Management Institute) is the UK's only chartered professional body focused exclusively on management and leadership. CMI sets the benchmark for management practice, and its qualifications are approved and regulated by Ofqual.
CMI qualifications run from Level 3 up to Level 8, offering a clear progression route from first-line management to senior strategic leadership. Learners also gain professional CMI membership and the opportunity to work towards Chartered Manager status — a distinction only a small proportion of UK managers hold.
Key reasons to choose CMI Qualifications:
-
Royal Chartered Body — As the UK's only chartered institute for management and leadership, CMI's awards carry a professional standing few other bodies can offer.
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Ofqual Regulated — CMI qualifications are approved and regulated by Ofqual, so they meet demanding national quality standards.
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Professional Membership Included — Learners typically receive CMI membership alongside their award.
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Pathway to Chartered Manager Status — Learners can work towards Foundation Chartered Manager (FCMgr) status early in their career, progressing to full Chartered Manager (CMgr) status.
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Employer-Trusted — CMI qualifications and membership are valued by employers across public, private, and third-sector organisations.
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University Progression — Many CMI qualifications carry credit recognition, supporting progression onto degree and postgraduate management study.
Pathways & Progression
Academic Pathway
Progress to Level 6
- CMI Level 6 Award in Professional Management And Leadership Practice
- Direct progression on successful completion
Professional Recognition
Chartered Manager Route
- Foundation Chartered Manager (fCMgr) status on completion
- Fast-track to full Chartered Manager (CMgr) via the Qualified route
- Post-nominals that evidence your professional standing
Career Growth
Career Pathways
- Sustainability Manager Head of ESG
- Builds a pathway toward senior roles combining management leadership with sustainability strategy.
Industry Recognition
Professional Certification
- Ofqual-regulated RQF Level 5 qualification
- Awarded by Chartered Management Institute (CMI)
- Valued by employers across the UK and internationally
Career Paths
Sustainability Manager
Middle-Level Manager Role
Leads the design and delivery of sustainability initiatives across a department.
ESG Programme Manager
Middle-Level Manager Role
Coordinates environmental, social, and governance projects to meet organisational targets.
Corporate Responsibility Lead
Middle-Level Manager Role
Embeds responsible business practices into day-to-day team operations.
Entry Requirements
To enrol in the CMI Level 5 Award in Sustainability Management and Leadership, learners must meet the following entry requirements.
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Age Requirement
Be 18 years of age and over.
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Prior Qualification & Experience
A previous Level 4 qualification or relevant management experience is required.
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Course Capability
Possess the ability to complete the Level 5 course.
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English Language
The course is offered in English. You must possess considerable competency in English.
Assessment
For each module you study, you will complete a written assignment of approximately 2,500 - 4,500 words and submit it online via your MyLearnDirect learning portal. The guideline word count for units within this qualification varies depending on the size and content of the unit, thus we kindly ask you to refer to your assessment brief and guidelines for each unit.
Written Assignment
Per Module
2,500 - 4,500 Words
Per assignment
Online Submission
Via MyLearnDirect
Tutor Assessed
Expert assessment
Syllabus
Learners must select at least one unit to a minimum of 4 credits, 40 hours Total Qualification Time (TQT), and a minimum of 16 Guided Learning Hours (GLH) to achieve this qualification. Unit 560 is recommended for managers new to sustainability, as it provides foundational knowledge that complements the other units.
Learners must request before enrolment to interchange unit(s) other than the preselected units shown in the SBTL website because we need to make sure the availability of learning materials for the requested unit(s). SBTL will reject an application if the learning materials for the requested interchange unit(s) are unavailable.
Click on each unit below to read a summary of the learning outcomes.
1
560
Sustainability Principles for Managers and Leaders
100 TQT
10 Credits
Unit Aim
This unit gives managers and leaders an overview of sustainability principles and why they matter to organisations. Integrating sustainability into business practice creates long-term value, reduces negative impacts on the environment, society and economy, and strengthens reputation with customers who prioritise responsibility. Learners will explore the drivers of sustainable practice and the role managers and leaders play in promoting and influencing good practice.
Learning Outcomes:
- Evaluate the drivers of sustainable practices in an organisation.
- Assess the role of Managers and Leaders in promoting and influencing sustainability practices.
2
561
Managing and Operationalising Sustainability Practice
100 TQT
10 Credits
Unit Aim
This unit gives learners insight into how sustainability principles shape operational planning. Building sustainability into operations helps organisations reduce their ecological footprint, conserve resources and contribute positively to the community. Learners will explore the frameworks and drivers involved and develop an operational plan to address organisational sustainability goals.
Learning Outcomes:
- Examine the impact of sustainability principles on operational planning.
- Develop an operational plan that addresses sustainability goals.
3
562
Managing Change for Sustainability
100 TQT
10 Credits
Unit Aim
This unit gives managers and leaders an understanding of why change is needed to achieve sustainability goals. Managing this kind of change means guiding individuals and teams through environmentally and socially responsible strategies while building a culture of innovation, collaboration and accountability. Learners will explore the impact of change on organisations and consider approaches to engaging stakeholders throughout the change process.
Learning Outcomes:
- Analyse the rationale for organisational change to achieve sustainability goals.
- Evaluate approaches for managing change to achieve sustainability goals.
4
563
Ethical Management and Leadership for Sustainability
100 TQT
10 Credits
Unit Aim
This unit gives managers and leaders an understanding of ethical management and leadership and how it supports sustainability. Making principled decisions based on integrity, fairness and accountability builds trust, encourages a positive culture and keeps organisational practices aligned with societal values. Learners will explore ethical leadership practices and how to foster inclusive collaboration within teams.
Learning Outcomes:
- Evaluate the principles of ethical management and leadership in driving sustainability goals.
- Appraise ethical management and leadership approaches that drive team performance to achieve sustainability goals.
5
564
Conducting a Sustainability Project
100 TQT
10 Credits
Unit Aim
This unit enables managers and leaders to plan and carry out a project focused on sustainability. Such projects promote environmental, social, governance and economic responsibility, offering opportunities to create long-term positive impact. Learners will set the project’s aims and scope, choose suitable research methods, evaluate their findings, draw conclusions and make recommendations.
Learning Outcomes:
- Plan a sustainability project.
- Conduct a sustainability project.
6
509b
Managing Sustainable Stakeholder Relationships
40 TQT
4 Credits
Unit Aim
This unit gives learners insight into the types and objectives of stakeholder relationships within a sustainability context. Strong, strategically planned relationships with customers, suppliers, partners and staff are vital for long-term success and sustainable impact. Learners will also develop the skills needed to handle challenges and manage these relationships effectively.
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the different types and value of stakeholder relationships.
- Understand the frameworks for stakeholder management.
- Know how to manage stakeholder relationships.
- Know methods for measuring the impact of stakeholder engagement on organisational performance.
7
517b
Principles of Sustainable Innovation
50 TQT
5 Credits
Unit Aim
This unit enables learners to identify opportunities for sustainable innovation in the workplace, such as eco-friendly working practices, resource-efficient processes, or sustainable products and services. A culture of sustainable innovation can transform organisations, teams and individual performance. Learners will analyse why organisations develop these initiatives and learn how to turn green ideas into reality.
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the role of innovation within organisations.
- Understand the process of managing innovation in an organisation.
8
519b
Managing Quality and Continuous Improvement
60 TQT
6 Credits
Unit Aim
This unit explores how to integrate quality within organisations and embed continuous improvement into working practices to achieve sustainable outcomes. In a sustainability context, quality means meeting stakeholder expectations while reducing negative environmental and social impacts. Learners will understand the scope and purpose of sustainable quality management, the approaches, tools and techniques used, and how to judge its success.
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the scope and purpose of quality management within organisations.
- Understand approaches for managing quality.
- Understand the application of continuous improvement within organisations.
- Know how to judge the success of quality management.
9
521b
Using Data and Information for Decision Making
50 TQT
5 Credits
Unit Aim
This unit gives learners an understanding of the purpose and practice of interpreting, managing and presenting data and information to support decisions with sustainable outcomes. Managing sustainability data well can increase competitiveness, innovation, productivity and stakeholder satisfaction. However, as data volumes grow, interpreting and using it becomes an organisational challenge.
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the use of data and information in decision-making.
- Be able to interpret data and information to support decision-making.
- Know how to present data and information used for decision making.
10
525b
Using Reflective Practice to Inform Personal and Professional Development
50 TQT
5 Credits
Unit Aim
This unit gives learners an understanding of the value of reflective practice and how it can form the basis of meaningful personal and professional development in sustainability. By consciously analysing their own performance, decision-making, leadership and management skills in different situations, learners can identify opportunities to develop in sustainable practice.
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the value of reflective practice to inform personal and professional development.
- Know how to apply reflective practice to inform personal and professional development.
Study Mode
Our online learning gives you the flexibility to study when and where you want, with rich online learning resources and study guides developed by our expert tutors to provide structure, keep you motivated, and strengthen your understanding of the subject.
If you want a high level of structured guidance and support but can't attend scheduled live classes, then online learning is the perfect study method. You study at your own pace and set your own flexible schedule. We are dedicated to offering extensive learning support to simplify your learning journey, so we provide the option to schedule online personal meetings with your tutor at your convenience.
Our simplified online learning facilitates you to achieve high career growth without stress and dilemmas.
What's included in our online learning?
Learning Resources
Comprehensive learning resources and study guides developed by expert tutors which cover all the key aspects of the syllabus.
Tutor Support
Dedicated support from expert tutors throughout the duration of your studies.
Personal Tutor Meetings
Schedule online personal tutor meetings whenever you want, which will help you get the most out of your studies and provide guidance, support, and encouragement.
Dedicated Support Desk Portal
You can raise queries, request tutor support and ask for a callback whenever you need guidance and assistance.
Elevate Grade
Your tutors will provide formative assessment feedback for each module, helping you improve your achievements throughout the programme.
Quality Learning Resources
Quality learning resources developed by expert tutors, which include learning pathway materials, lecture notes, study guides, case studies, etc., enabling you to apply your knowledge.
Assessment Resources
We offer comprehensive assessment resources and assessment guidelines to support you through each module.
Resources & Support
We are committed to providing unwavering support throughout your educational journey. Our dedicated support team is a crucial link between tutors and learners, ensuring that guidance, assessment feedback, and additional study assistance are delivered promptly and effectively.
Induction
Online and flexible learning induction to help you settle in and prepare for your online studies.
Tutor Support
Dedicated support from expert tutors throughout the duration of your course.
Personal Tutor Meetings
Schedule online personal tutor meetings whenever you want for guidance, support and encouragement.
Dedicated Support Desk Portal
Raise queries, request tutor support and ask for a callback whenever you need guidance and assistance.
Elevate Knowledge
Your tutors will provide formative assessment feedback for each module, helping you improve throughout the course.
Quality Learning Resources
Learning pathway materials, lecture notes, study guides, case studies and more.
Assessment Resources
Comprehensive assessment resources and assessment guidelines provided.
Study Guides
Structured study guides for every unit, keeping you on track and strengthening your understanding as you progress.
Why should I choose SBTL?
We focus on providing a sophisticated, flexible learning experience. Our courses are designed with 100% online learning so your studies fit around your full-time work and other commitments, letting you study from anywhere, at your own pace.
You'll also get dedicated tutor support, scheduled personal tutor meetings whenever you need them, and access to our Dedicated Support Desk portal to raise queries or request a call back.
How does online learning work at SBTL?
Our online learning gives you the flexibility to study when and where you want, with rich online learning resources and study guides developed by our expert tutors to provide structure, keep you motivated, and strengthen your understanding of the subject.
If you want a high level of structured guidance and support without attending scheduled classes, then online learning is the perfect study method for you. You study at your own pace and set your own flexible schedule. Our simplified online learning helps you achieve high career growth without stress and dilemmas.
You can schedule online personal tutor meetings whenever you want, which will help you get the most out of your studies and provide guidance, support and encouragement. When it comes to support, we have a dedicated support desk team so you can raise queries, request tutor support, and ask for a callback whenever you need guidance or assistance.
How will I get tutor support and other guidance?
You will have access to unlimited dedicated tutor support through our centralised Support Desk portal. You can schedule personal tutor meetings whenever needed and raise queries via the MyLearnDirect learning portal at any time.
- Constructive formative feedback on every assignment to help you improve
- Guidance on the proposed structure of your work
- Regular discussion of your assignment progress throughout the course
- Guidance on presentation — title page, contents, pagination, footnotes and Harvard referencing
What are the payment methods?
The fee can be paid in either of the following methods:
Debit Card/Credit Card
PayPal
Bank Transfer
Do you offer a monthly payment plan?
Yes. We offer flexible, low-cost and interest-free payment plans across all our courses and study methods, so you can spread the cost monthly and focus on learning.
Can I interchange the units?
As an approved centre, SBTL preselects the units for each course from those listed in the awarding body's specification, and the preselected units are shown on every course's details page.
If you'd like different units, you must request this before enrolment so we can confirm the learning resources are available. Once enrolment is complete, unit interchange requests can no longer be accommodated.
What are the steps I need to follow once I decide to join you?
1
Select your course — choose the course you want to pursue, making sure you meet the entry requirements.
2
Enrol — submit your order application via our website or by emailing admission@sbusinesslondon.ac.uk, then pay online or by bank transfer, as a single payment or in monthly instalments.
3
Get portal access — once payment and a compliance check (ID and eligibility) are complete, you'll receive your MyLearnDirect login, usually within 48 hours.
4
Induction — a comprehensive online induction helps you settle in and prepare for your studies.
5
Dedicated tutor — your allocated tutor and our academic support team assess your work and provide formative feedback before final submission.
6
Assessment — marks and grades are published via MyLearnDirect once your final submission is made.
7
Certification — receive your accredited certificate on successful completion, ready to progress your career or enrol on your next course with us.
What does the allocated tutor provide to me?
- Provide you with comprehensive guidance and support from start to finish of your course through the support desk portal.
- Our tutors don't just provide academic support; throughout your learning journey, they strive to build confidence, foster aspiration, and encourage a love for learning
- Offer constructive formative feedback on your assignments, which can help you to improve your assignments.
- Offer guidance on the proposed structure.
- Discuss the progress of your assignments with you during the course.
- Provide guidance on presentation, such as the title page, contents page, pagination, footnoting and Harvard Referencing.
What is the difference between Award, Certificate, Diploma or Extended Diploma?
CMI courses come in four different sizes. The size depends on the depth of the qualification and the duration you take to complete it.
- Award: A concise and short course, which the learners typically take two to four months to complete.
- Certificate: It provides substantial knowledge and skills and typically takes three to six months to complete.
- Diploma: A broad learning programme which learners typically take six to ten months to complete.
- Extended Diploma: A broad and extensive learning programme, which learners typically take twelve to fourteen months to complete.
Are CMI courses regulated?
CMI is regulated by four regulators: Ofqual in England, CCEA in Northern Ireland, Qualifications Wales, and the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) — meaning all qualifications awarded by CMI are regulated.
Which CMI Sustainability course is right for me?
A CMI qualification is the perfect choice if you want to build or advance your career in sustainability leadership. CMI qualifications symbolise a global benchmark for excellence, as CMI is the only Chartered professional body in Management and Leadership. By studying a CMI course, you join a network of over 143,000 members globally, gaining access to the mentoring, support, and globally recognised learning resources that come with CMI membership.
The CMI qualifications range from level 2 to level 8, and different levels are related to the learners' career positions, roles and responsibilities. So, the course content will provide the required skills and knowledge for your current and future positions, roles, and responsibilities. Below is a broad overview of the qualifications and the roles that they cover in each qualification.
CMI Level 3 in Sustainability
Designed for practising or aspiring team leaders and supervisors, this qualification develops an awareness of sustainability practices in the organisation and how this impacts day-to-day activities.
- CMI Level 3 Award in Sustainability Principles for First Line Managers
- CMI Level 3 Certificate in Sustainability Principles for First Line Managers
- CMI Level 3 Diploma in Sustainability Principles for First Line Managers
CMI Level 5 in Sustainability Management and Leadership
Designed for practising or aspiring middle/operational managers and leaders responsible for translating strategy into plans and implementing strategy through teams.
- CMI Level 5 Diploma in Sustainability Management and Leadership
- CMI Level 5 Certificate in Sustainability Management and Leadership
- CMI Level 5 Award in Sustainability Management and Leadership
CMI Level 7 in Strategic Sustainability Leadership
Designed for practising or aspiring strategic managers and leaders accountable for setting the strategic direction of an organisation.
Is the course fee all-inclusive? Are there any hidden fees?
Yes, our course fee is all-inclusive, and there are no hidden fees. If you complete your course within your standard support period, without needing a resubmission or a printed certificate, you pay nothing beyond the course fee. Your course fee covers awarding body registration, full course access, tutor support, learning materials, one formative review per module, assessment marking and your digital certificate.
Additional fees apply only in specific optional or performance-based situations:
- Resubmission fees: if a submission is referred and you need a further attempt.
- Additional formative review: if you request more than the one review included per module.
- Extension fees: if you need more time beyond your standard support period. Awarding body fees may also apply.
- Printed certificate and shipping: if you request an optional printed certificate where the awarding body offers one, and its delivery. Digital certificates are included.
- Course change: if you ask to change to a different course after enrolling.
The amount of each fee is set out in detail in our Terms and Conditions, which you review and accept before purchasing your course.
Is there a fee for shipping my certificate?
Your digital certificate is included in your course fee, with no shipping charge. If you request a printed certificate where the awarding body offers one, a shipping fee applies:
- Within the UK: £10
- Outside the UK: £50
Shipping fees are set out in our Terms and Conditions, which you review and accept before purchasing your course.
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