At the time of her Lynda.com job offer, Dana Jennings (MESM 2012) had some reservations since "it wasn’t 100% focused on sustainability." Advised to take the job, she now attests to the wisdom of that, explaining, "in the end, it set me up for my current career at the intersection of technology and sustainability."
Quick Facts About Dana
Title and Organization: Associate Director, Net Zero Strategy at Anthesis Group
Sector: Consulting
Field: Corporate Sustainability
Years at the Organization: 3 years
Years in the Field: 15 years
Bren Specializations: Corporate Environmental Management (now Business and Sustainability); Energy and Climate
Connect with Dana: LinkedIn Profile
Describe your job in 5 sentences or fewer.
I work as a corporate sustainability consultant for Anthesis, the world’s largest pure-play sustainability advisory firm. In my role, I guide companies along their sustainability journeys, from measuring greenhouse gas emissions to setting targets and building programs to achieve them. I work with colleagues from around the globe, but my clients are primarily from the technology sector based in North America.
How did you find out about and land your current position?
I was familiar with Anthesis through my previous role as a sustainability manager at LinkedIn, where they supported our program. I stayed in touch with my Anthesis contacts over the years, and when I was starting to look into job options after my career break, I reached out to them for an informational interview. They remembered me well and were looking for a consultant with in-house technology sector experience to work on their Net Zero team. The informational interview turned into a job offer, and that is how I got to where I am today! I would say my story emphasizes the importance of relationships and leaving a positive impression on those around you.
How has your Bren School experience or training helped you in your career or job?
The Bren School trained me in many technical areas that I use on a daily basis in my work, including greenhouse gas accounting, LCAs, and scenario analysis/modeling. I may not always be the person running the calculations, but I must understand the results and interpret them for clients to use. I also learned a lot about presenting information and connecting with audiences.
What are some job search tips/tactics you can recommend to help someone find a job in a highly competitive job market (what has worked well for you or other people you know)?
At the beginning of your career, it is helpful to have a particular skill or niche to get you in the door. For example, knowing how to calculate FLAG emissions or conduct LCAs or implement Science-based Targets can differentiate you from others. Then, acquiring deep knowledge of a particular sector, such as technology or fashion or pharmaceuticals, can make you a very desirable candidate in the future, as our field is becoming so specialized.
Do you have any advice or encouragement you’d give other alumni or current students about networking?
Maintaining authentic relationships with those around you and leaving a positive impression are key. It is easy to get into your own bubble, but finding moments to connect with others (alumni events, conferences, informational interviews) can be fun and refreshing and, honestly, can help your career!
What was the best advice you received while at Bren?
Probably when Dave Parker recommended that I take my job offer at Lynda.com. At the time, I wasn’t completely convinced to take it as it wasn’t 100% focused on sustainability, but in the end, it set me up for my current career at the intersection of technology and sustainability. Thanks, Dave!!
What do you think is the most challenging environmental problem that exists today?
My work is focused primarily on climate change and helping businesses set targets and develop plans for decarbonizing their companies. I think I am best set up to help large companies drive down their emissions through their own supply chains and product design.
What is your favorite book, magazine, podcast, or film that has impacted your career?
Drawdown, the book that lays out the solutions to resolving the climate crisis, is pragmatic and hopeful. I also check Trellis Group (previously GreenBiz) for green business news on a weekly basis to keep up to speed on the industry.
What is your favorite travel destination?
Italy, where my husband is from, and where we go every summer.
Do you have a pet? If you, what type?
My dog Guido (terrier mix), orange tabby cat Pierino, and 3 backyard hens. I love animals!