Sustainability professionals operate in environments defined by complexity - competing priorities, high expectations, organisational resistance, and the need to influence without always having direct authority. Emotional Intelligence (EQ) is one of the most powerful tools for navigating these realities. It helps build trust, strengthen collaboration, and lead with clarity and confidence, even in high-pressure or values-driven contexts.
In this practical, insight-rich session, Emily Hamilton, sustainability leader and former Head of Impact at Savills Investment Management, will share how EQ has shaped her own approach to driving change and guiding teams through strategic and regulatory transitions.
Through real examples from her work embedding impact into fund governance and coordinating cross-functional ESG initiatives, Emily will break down the core EQ skills that support effective sustainability leadership.
Emily Hamilton is a consultant and former Chief Sustainability Officer who helps organisations lead with purpose and deliver measurable impact. At Savills Investment Management, she played a pivotal role in shaping the sustainability approach for a £21 billion investment platform, embedding impact into fund design, governance, and investment decision-making across global markets.
A standout achievement was leading the development of the firm’s global sustainability investment framework and contributing to its first net zero roadmap, aligning investment practices with long-term climate goals while balancing fiduciary duty and stakeholder expectations.
Emily brings calm authority, sharp insight, and deep emotional intelligence to her work, building trust, navigating complex stakeholder environments, and guiding leaders through change. Now working independently, she is building a consultancy to support SMEs, public sector organisations, and boards. Her focus is on helping clients make better decisions, build resilient organisations, and deliver environmental and social outcomes that stand up to scrutiny. Click here to view the slides.
