Marilyn Johnson: Connecting Sustainability & Well-Being for a Better Future

As a systems-thinker, I  have a proven track record of launching and leading holistic global sustainability initiatives at both public and privately held companies. I create robust structures, set ambitious goals, establish effective processes, track key metrics, and lead cross-functional teams to drive results and continuous improvement across Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) dimensions.

 Recognizing that no company is on their sustainability journey alone, I facilitate meaningful coalitions by engaging with initiatives such as CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion, becoming a signatory to the UN Global Compact, endorsing the UN Women's Empowerment Principles, and participating in RE100, aligning organizational efforts with global sustainability and diversity commitments.

Reliable and comprehensive metrics are the foundation of progress. This includes defining and validating metrics to measure and track ESG performance. I use respected frameworks to achieve recognition on global ESG indices like the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI),  MSCI, Stonewall workplace equality, Human Rights Campaign, Corporate Equality Index and EcoVadis.

Communicating results through sustainability reporting aligned with GRI, SASB, UN SDGs and other frameworks, showcases achievements to investors, customers, and stakeholders.  I design internal and external communication strategies that align with stakeholder expectations and showcase business results.

Fostering cross-functional collaboration and innovation, builds a culture of sustainability and drives employee engagement.  By spearheading  initiatives like Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), mentorship and product sustainability assessment programs, I have a track record for driving systemic change.

As a sought-after expert on sustainability issues, I present and speak on subjects ranging from  sustainability metrics, data and  scope 3 emissions to climate and wellbeing, DEI and sustainable innovation.  My relaxed and conversational style translates well with different audiences and platforms.

Marilyn worked on my leadership team at Arxada, responsible for both Sustainability and Communications. She's an experienced Sustainability professional with a strong grasp of the evolving regulatory and investor interests in ESG. At the same time, she's collaborative and a strong communicator who enlists the broader organization to get aligned on the overall objectives and deliver strong results together. I'd highly recommend her for leadership roles in the Sustainability space.  

- Mark D

Marilyn embodies servant leadership, driven by her commitment to empowering others and fostering collaboration. She creates opportunities for colleagues to thrive, ensuring every voice is heard and valued. With over two decades in corporate sustainability, Marilyn’s ability to unite diverse perspectives and transform challenges into opportunities makes her a transformative leader. Her passion for meaningful change inspires those around her to reach their fullest potential, leaving a lasting impact on people and progress alike

-Callie C

Marilyn's leadership in developing Arxada's inaugural Sustainability Report and aligning Portfolio Sustainability Assessments with WBCSD was transformative. She illuminated Arxada's global impact and inspired a strategic focus on sustainable development, showcasing the urgency of aligning with the UN SDGs. I highly recommend her to any organization.

-Jeff H

Marilyn was pivotal in establishing the Sustainability environment at Clarivate, driving professionalism and providing invaluable support across business areas. She’s a force for good, and I look forward to working with her again in the future.

- Chris C

Marilyn is an inspiring leader who connects people globally through her passion and enthusiasm. She influences leaders, mentors colleagues, and is always ready to assist and guide others. Her leadership is highly respected, and many view her as a role model.

-Shankar N

Marilyn is a passionate, creative leader committed to making a positive impact on sustainability. She’s a natural influencer with a strong bias towards action, and I highly recommend her for any purpose-driven project or team.

-Jason Y