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Sustainability Leadership Level-7

CMI Level 7 Award in Strategic Sustainability Leadership

Awarding Body: CMI 2–3 Months Min. 10 Credits 100% Online

The CMI Level 7 Award in Strategic Sustainability Leadership is designed for senior leaders and directors ready to shape sustainability at the highest level. This focused award challenges you to think towards long-term, systemic change that positions your organisation as a responsible leader in a shifting global landscape.

As businesses face increasing pressure to operate responsibly, developing the skills to lead sustainable change from within has become a distinct advantage. A concise course of a single module, you’ll uncover what it truly means to lead on sustainability at the highest level. By mastering the principles behind strategic leadership and understanding effective strategies to lead the change across your organisation, you will have the confidence to drive forward-thinking initiatives that deliver both environmental impact and organisational value.

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 7 Certificate or Diploma.

At a Glance
Who is it for?
Senior leaders and executives wanting to lead organisation-wide sustainability strategy at the highest professional level.
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 7 Award in Strategic Sustainability Leadership?

The CMI Level 7 Award in Strategic Sustainability 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 senior managers who want to embed sustainability into core business practices and lead with both impact and integrity.

You'll gain practical tools to align business performance with environmental, social, and governance priorities—equipping you to lead with both impact and integrity. Mapped to the CMI Professional Standards and reflecting global sustainability goals, the course develops skills in areas such as ethical leadership, stakeholder engagement, risk governance, and change management.

Recognised by employers and relevant across industries, this award positions you as a forward-thinking leader—ready to navigate complexity, champion sustainable transformation, and deliver long-term value in a rapidly evolving 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 7 Award in Strategic Sustainability 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 7 Award in Strategic Sustainability Leadership is designed for senior leaders and executives who want to lead strategic sustainability initiatives and embed responsible business practice across their organisation.

  • Senior leaders responsible for setting organisation-wide sustainability strategy.
  • Executives wanting to align business strategy with long-term ESG goals.
  • Directors leading organisational response to climate and regulatory change.
  • Individuals wanting the most advanced, recognised qualification in sustainability leadership.
Senior Leaders Sustainability Directors Executives Driving ESG Strategy Directors Leading Climate and Regulatory Response
Course Benefits

For Learners

  • Develop a strategic awareness of sustainability leadership
  • Develop the skills required for this level of responsibility

Organisational

  • Drive sustainability leadership activities in a senior management and leadership role
  • Develops sustainability leadership capability to help your organisation thrive and meet sustainability aims

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.
  • Ofqual Regulated — CMI qualifications are approved and regulated by Ofqual, so they meet demanding national quality standards.
  • Professional Membership Included — Learners typically receive CMI membership alongside their award.
  • 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.
  • Employer-Trusted — CMI qualifications and membership are valued by employers across public, private, and third-sector organisations.
  • University Progression — Many CMI qualifications carry credit recognition, supporting progression onto degree and postgraduate management study.
Pathways & Progression
Academic Pathway
Progr Progress to Next Level
  •  Postgraduate / Master's Top-Up Programme in Sustainability Leadership
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
  • Director of Sustainability
  • Chief Sustainability Officer
  • Builds a pathway toward the most senior sustainability leadership roles in an organisation.
Industry Recognition
Professional Certification
  • Ofqual-regulated RQF Level 7 qualification
  • Awarded by Chartered Management Institute (CMI)
  • Valued by employers across the UK and internationally
Career Paths
Director of Sustainability
Senior-Level Manager Role
Leads organisation-wide sustainability strategy and reports to executive leadership.
Chief Sustainability Officer
Senior-Level Manager Role
Sets the strategic vision for sustainability across the entire organisation.
Head of ESG Strategy
Senior-Level Manager Role
Directs environmental, social, and governance strategy at a senior executive level.
Entry Requirements

To enrol in the CMI Level 7 Award in Strategic Sustainability Leadership, learners must meet the following entry requirements.

  • Age Requirement

    Be 18 years of age or older.

  • Prior Qualification & Experience

     Hold a Level 6 qualification, or have equivalent relevant experience in a senior-management role.

  • Course Capability

     Possess the ability to complete the Level 7 course.

  • 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

Rules of Combination

You must select at least one unit to a minimum of 100 TQT hours to achieve this qualification.  The minimum GLH is 40 hours. Minimum credits: 10

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
730
Principles of Strategic Sustainability Leadership
100 TQT 10 Credits

This unit explores foundational leadership frameworks, ethical decision-making, and strategic thinking required to align business models with global environmental and social sustainability goals.

2
731
Leading an Effective Sustainability Strategy
100 TQT 10 Credits

This unit focuses on designing, implementing, and measuring high-impact sustainability initiatives across an organization while navigating stakeholder expectations and business performance metrics.

3
732
Leading Systemic Change for Sustainability
100 TQT 10 Credits

This unit covers systems thinking and change management strategies to drive organizational transformation, overcome resistance, and foster a culture of long-term sustainable innovation.

4
733
Strategic Sustainability Project
100 TQT 10 Credits

This unit provides a practical capstone experience where learners apply sustainability leadership principles to solve real-world organizational challenges through an independent strategic project.

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 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 7 in Strategic Sustainability Leadership
Designed for practising or aspiring strategic managers and leaders accountable for setting the strategic direction of an organisation.