Governance

Sustainability at Sheffield brings together our strengths as an institution. Our academics are researching the solutions to our social and environmental challenges, our professional services staff are delivering sustainability projects across campus and our dedicated and passionate students ensure student priorities are represented. Our sustainability governance structures reflect these strengths to make sure that our work is informed by the latest research and students are involved in shaping our agenda.   

The University’s sustainability work is managed and implemented by two groups.  

Sustainability Steering Group

The Sustainability Steering Group is our highest dedicated sustainability group and reports directly to the University Executive Board (UEB). Its membership includes the Vice-Presidents for Research and Education, the Executive Director of Corporate Services, as well as the University's Chief Financial Officer, allowing it to make decisions and assign budgets to sustainability projects when required. The Steering Group is responsible for delivering the University Sustainability Strategy and Action Plan. Throughout Sustainability Strategy and Action Plan delivery, Steering Group representatives will report to UEB on a quarterly basis. This will include reporting carbon emissions reductions and other central key performance indicators.    

Membership of the Sustainability Steering Group

Chair and University Executive Board Sponsor for Sustainability
Professor Ruth Blakeley, Vice-President and Head of Faculty of Social Sciences

University Executive Board Member
Joanne Jones, Chief Financial Officer 

Education Representation
Professor Matt Marshall, Deputy Vice-President for Education

Faculty Representative
Professor Neil Sims, Faculty Director of One University - Engineering

Advanced Manufacturing Group Representative
Ryan Diver, Director of One University, AMRC

Professional Services Lead for Sustainability
Mark Holden, Associate Director of EFM: Estates Development

Academic Lead for Sustainability
Dr Rachael Rothman, Co-Director of the Grantham Centre for Sustainable Futures

Student Lead for Sustainability
Nadya Ghani, Students' Union Welfare and Sustainability Officer

Estates and Facilities Management Representative
Linda Goodacre, Director of Estates and Facilities Management

Sustainability Network

The Sustainability Network is formed of staff from across the University's professional services departments and academic schools and faculties who are empowered to drive sustainability across the institution. It provides a platform to share best practices, align efforts, and support the implementation of sustainability initiatives in faculties, departments, and professional services.

By fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange, the Network ensures that sustainability remains embedded in the University’s operations, education, and research. Regular meetings allow members to track progress, address challenges, and contribute to the University’s overarching sustainability strategy.

This structured approach helps the University make meaningful progress towards its environmental and social sustainability goals while ensuring alignment across different areas of activity.