Top 10 Directors of Sustainability - 2026

Maria Watson is Chief ESG & Sustainability Officer and President of the Solventum Foundation. With over a decade of experience, she has led global emissions reductions and sustainability initiatives, championing an approach that connects environmental responsibility with business performance and better healthcare outcomes.

Chris Knutson is a Director at Green Plains Inc., bringing expertise in risk management, sustainability strategy and regulatory compliance. His work connects environmental goals with business priorities, helping organizations navigate complex regulations, reduce carbon emissions and turn sustainability commitments into measurable results.

Matthew Hamilton is a sustainability leader at Newell Brands with over 25 years of experience across corporate responsibility, government affairs and environmental initiatives. His work spans responsible sourcing, renewable energy and regulatory compliance, with an emphasis on strengthening communities and embedding sustainability into business operations.

Marta Schantz is Director of Sustainability and Reporting at Vivmark Residential, overseeing sustainability initiatives across more than 600 communities. With over 15 years of experience, she specializes in real estate decarbonization, climate risk and ESG strategy, bringing together environmental priorities and long-term business value.

Sarah Crowe is a sustainability leader at Knife River Corporation with over 17 years of experience across energy, climate and corporate sustainability. Her expertise spans ESG reporting, policy development and stakeholder engagement, with a focus on practical strategies that advance environmental responsibility and business objectives.

Nicole Voss is Director of Sustainability at Advanced Drainage Systems, bringing over 25 years of experience in environmental management and compliance. With a background in chemical engineering, she focuses on advancing plastic recycling, protecting water resources and reducing the environmental impact of manufacturing operations.

Jeff Sokol is a sustainability and impact leader at CONMED Corporation with over 15 years of experience in corporate and product sustainability. He specializes in developing environmental strategies, managing regulatory risks and working across business functions to integrate sustainability into operations and long-term business planning.

Janelle McNally is a sustainability and investor relations professional at American Water, with expertise in strategic planning, corporate communications and stakeholder engagement. Her work focuses on communicating the company's sustainability efforts and connecting its operational priorities with the interests of investors and communities.

Jessica Weninger is Director of Sustainability at Reynolds Consumer Products, where her work centers on sustainable packaging and recycling. She advocates for greater use of recycled materials, particularly aluminum, and promotes practical ways to reduce waste and the environmental impact of everyday consumer products.

Amanda Diamond is Director of Sustainability for Jersey City, where she leads initiatives focused on urban forestry, climate resilience, energy conservation and green infrastructure. Drawing on her background in forestry and project management, she advances community-centered sustainability solutions through collaboration, implementation and environmental stewardship.