Your ultimate guide to mastering sustainable business practices. Want to impress European customers and partners with your green credentials? This program equips you to lead the charge.
Master the Future of Business with Our Certified ESG Consultant Program
In an era of rapid global change, business demands are shifting dramatically. Climate change, ecological challenges, and the growing expectations of customers, investors, and society emphasize the need for sustainable corporate leadership. In this context, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) consultants play a pivotal role, in guiding companies toward a sustainable future.
Our Certified ESG Consultant Program, offered by the prestigious Steinbeis Hamburg Business School, is meticulously designed for professionals who aim to expand their businesses in Europe and globally. Delivered with simultaneous Chinese and other language translations, this comprehensive program equips you with the expertise, skills, and network to confidently navigate the complex ESG landscape.
Program Overview
- Purpose of the Program
This certification develops ESG experts capable of driving sustainable strategies, measuring ESG performance, and ensuring compliance with key regulations such as the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and EU Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS). - Learning Format
The program is structured around five intensive modules, combining online live sessions and on-site workshops in Suzhou, China (two modules), and Hamburg, Germany (two modules). This enables participants to gain a global and localized perspective on ESG practices. - Expert Instruction with Global Accessibility
All sessions are led by industry-leading European experts and practitioners, with simultaneous Chinese translation to ensure seamless engagement and understanding.
Who should attend
1) CEOs, CFOs, COOs and other C-level executives who want to sell their products to Europe. Either by shipping directly to European customers or by selling to suppliers. The need to:
a. Provide the appropriate environmental, social, and governance certifications on time. b. Avoid horrendous contractual penalties due to errors in documentation.
Benefits:
– Winning and sustaining business
– Building a professional, peer-to-peer network with potential customers and suppliers in Europe and the BRICS countries
(2) Executives or management consultants who want to professionally prepare their entry or transition into an ESG management role.
Benefits:
- Be faster to market and receive appropriate project requests and assignments.
- Avoid trial and error and costly loss of time.
- Gain security by creating a concrete “plan” together with industry experts; also, integration into a network.
(3) People already working as interim managers who want to “fine-tune” their business model and market development considering current market changes.
Benefits:
- More suitable project requests
- Better utilization at the right daily rate
- More fun at work
- Integration of expert tips into one’s work
- Integration into a network
The mix of participants from all countries is a very “stimulating” mix for everyone.
Program Goals and Outcomes: What You Will Achieve
1. Expertise in ESG Standards and Practices:
- Deep understanding of CSRD, ESRS, and double materiality analysis.
- Knowledge of cutting-edge methods to measure and manage ESG performance.
- Ability to prepare sustainability reports aligned with global standards.
- Awareness of the latest developments in ESG regulations and reporting frameworks.
2. Practical Skills for Immediate Application:
- Crafting sustainable corporate strategies and integrating ESG goals.
- Identifying and managing ESG risks and leveraging opportunities for innovation.
- Communicating ESG initiatives effectively to internal and external stakeholders.
- Advising companies on meeting CSRD and ESRS requirements.
3. Leadership and Influencers:
- Position yourself as a sought-after ESG consultant in an increasingly sustainability-driven global economy.
- Build a network of like-minded professionals and industry leaders.
- Concrete steps to implement this personal business plan
- Your business model and personal business plan
- Your career plan with concrete steps
- Clarity about “My core competencies and what I like to do”
- Network with practical tips from experienced industry insiders
- Reflection with practical tips from experienced industry insiders
- Network for further support along the way (individual peer-to-peer mentoring and access to the Master of Excellence network)
- Master of Excellence in ESG certificate from a renowned global think tank
- Individual follow-up coaching by the speakers and mentors (dates to be arranged individually)
Program Modules and Content
Each module includes case studies, interactive workshops, and opportunities for peer learning, ensuring you gain theoretical and practical insights.
Module 1 (Suzhou, China): ESG Reporting, Materiality, and Regulation
Explore the regulatory landscape in Europe and learn the methodologies for ESG reporting. This module provides foundational knowledge on materiality assessments and compliance with European standards.
Module 2 (Suzhou, China): Sustainable Entrepreneurship
Discover how ESG strategies create competitive advantages, drive innovation, and enhance reputational value.
Module 3 (Hamburg, Germany): Data-Driven Transformation and ESG Integration
Understand how digital tools and analytics empower companies to measure, monitor, and improve ESG performance effectively.
Module 4 (Hamburg, Germany): ESG Governance and Practical Applications
Delivered in Germany, these modules offer an in-depth exploration of governance structures, stakeholder communication, and best practices for implementing ESG strategies within local and global markets.
Examination (Hamburg, Germany): Final exam of modules 1 to 4 and presentation of certificates (ceremony) with press.
What Sets This Program Apart
- Focus on Chinese Businesses in Europe
Tailored for Chinese companies expanding into Europe, this program addresses the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Chinese professionals, including regulatory compliance and sustainable growth strategies. - Global Learning with Local Context
Gain exposure to European ESG leadership while understanding its relevance to the Chinese business environment. - Cutting-Edge Content
Dive into ESG topics such as carbon reduction, energy efficiency, sustainable supply chains, and innovative governance models. - Networking Opportunities
Build a robust network of Chinese and European business leaders, creating opportunities for collaboration and growth.
Basic conviction that guides you through the course
Managers are successful:
- … when they do what they enjoy and find “meaningful”
- … when they do what they are “really good” at – and better than their “competition”
- … when they offer their customers added value with what they do
- … when they are entrepreneurs for themselves
- … when you can market and monetize your offer, i.e. the market rewards your service at an appropriate price.
All five conditions should be met for sustainable success.
Procedure
Before the course
- Check if it makes sense to participate and register. Upon request: Non-binding preliminary discussion (video call) with Andreas Renner from Steinbeis Business School Hamburg Germany, and Dr. Lucas Bretz from GAMI Suzhou China in English or German
- Binding registration of participants HERE
- Preparation of participants for the face-to-face part. Participants will receive a preparation assignment in advance (time commitment 1/2 day).
Workshops in the presence
- Duration two days in Suzhou, China (content see above)
- Duration two days in Hamburg, Germany (content see above)
In the days following the face-to-face part
- Individual development of a business model/business plan integrated into your life concept or your own company.
- Documents and instructions will be presented and explained in the classroom.
Examination
- Online presentation of the business model/business plan by the participants plus feedback/discussion (60 minutes per participant). Online on 2 different dates of your choice.
- Certification upon completion of requirements.
After passing the exam: Coaching, mentoring and networking
- Coaching of the practical implementation of the participants by the workshop leaders (one meeting per participant with an instructor).
- Mentoring by interim manager peers (by mutual agreement)
- Inclusion in the LinkedIn group (Certified ESG Consultants network)
Dates and Schedule
Modules 1 & 2: Suzhou, China – September 1-3, 2025
Modules 3 & 4: Hamburg, Germany – September 15-16, 2025
Exam: Hamburg, Germany – September 17, 2025
Each day, start at 9 am. End at 5 pm.
Program Outcomes
Upon completion, you will:
- Earn a recognized certification as a Certified ESG Consultant, a distinction that sets you apart in the global market.
- Be equipped to assist companies in overcoming ESG challenges, ensuring compliance, and driving sustainability initiatives.
- Possess a unique blend of global insights and local expertise, making you a valuable asset to any organization.
Certification, Certificate, and Seal
Examination: Preparation and presentation of a business plan based on anindividual career plan: Written through submission to instructors and successful online presentation with questions answered and discussion.
Lecturer certificate: The certificate is awarded by the Future Academy of the global think tank Diplomatic Council (UN reg.) together with UNITEDINTERIM.
Seal: Each participant will receive a “Master of Excellence in ESG” seal, jointly awarded by GTEC and Steinbeis Business School. The seal is perfect for self-promotion (website, email signature, social media…).
Take the First Step Toward Sustainability Leadership
Join the Certified ESG Consultant Program and empower your business to thrive in a sustainability-driven world. Whether you are a leader aiming to elevate your organization’s ESG performance or an entrepreneur seeking a competitive edge, this program is your gateway to success.
Visit website at steinbeis-ifem.de for more information
For registration and further questions, please send an email to [email protected] and [email protected]
Together, let’s build a sustainable future.