Courtney Holm, Honorary Professor of the University of Exeter Business School

A champion of environmental sustainability in business has been appointed an Honorary Professor of the University of Exeter Business School.

Courtney Holm has collaborated with the Business School for over 10 years across a range of sustainability initiatives and education programmes.

As Capgemini Invent’s Vice President, Sustainable Futures, Courtney was instrumental in co-creating the curriculum for the successful Sustainable Solutions Leadership Programme.

The Exeter-led executive education programme, which serves as a blueprint for applying climate science to industry, gave around 550 high-level executives a deeper knowledge of environmental sustainability, and enabled them to apply this knowledge professionally.

Courtney’s team at Capgemini Invent also set a challenge for students enrolled in Future 17, the University of Exeter and QS joint programme that allows students to develop career and life skills relating to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

She has also been Global Head of Sustainable Technology for Unilever, during which time she collaborated with the University of Exeter Business School on facilitating consultancy placements for MBA students.

As an Honorary Professor, Courtney will be supporting academic experts with course content related to environmental sustainability practices, and will be engaging with students through guest lectures as well as conducting her own research.

Courtney Holm, who is now Managing Director and Founder her own venture The Holm Edit, said: “I am absolutely beyond thrilled to be appointed an Honorary Professor at the University of Exeter Business School and can’t wait to get started.

“Through our collaborations in the past I have learnt that my own passion for environmental sustainability very much aligns with Exeter is trying to achieve, as we both believe that only through multilateral cooperation – between businesses and between businesses and the academic community – can we solve the systemic issues that threaten the future of our planet.”

Professor David Boughey, Interim Deputy Pro-Vice Chancellor and Dean of the University of Exeter Business School, said: “Courtney’s vast experience as a senior leader and her passionate advocacy of environmental sustainability and its practical application in business make her a perfect fit for an Honorary Professorship. I congratulate her on the appointment and look forward to working with her.”