Main partner:
Embark on a 4-month sustainability program covering
self-discovery, team dynamics, strategic thinking, and sustainable finance to
lead transformational change.
self-discovery, team dynamics, strategic thinking, and sustainable finance to lead transformational change.
self-discovery, team dynamics, strategic thinking, and sustainable finance to lead transformational change.
As the discourse around sustainability gains momentum, many professionals and organizations find themselves at a crossroads: eager to embrace sustainable practices but uncertain about where to begin or how to navigate this complex landscape.
Questions like ‘What does sustainability truly encompass?’ or ‘How do we seamlessly integrate it into our organizational strategies?’ are common, reflecting a broader need for clarity and direction.
At the European Institute for Sustainability by EFdeN, we recognize that sustainability in Romania is still developing. While enthusiasm for sustainable practices is strong, pathways to implementation are often unclear. Our Sustainability Leadership Program provides a robust framework blending theory with practical application. Over a 4-month journey, participants explore leadership development, strategic thinking, stakeholder engagement, and financial mechanisms for supporting sustainable initiatives.
This program goes beyond mere education—it’s a comprehensive immersion into the world of sustainability, tailored to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead meaningful change within your organization and beyond. Whether you are seeking to lay the groundwork for new initiatives, refine existing strategies, or build a cohesive approach to sustainability that aligns with both local and global standards, this program offers the tools and network to turn your vision into a reality. Join us, and transform the way you understand and practice sustainability.
Why learn from us?
When the young team at EFdeN first embarked on theirmission to drive sustainability in Romania, they werestepping into largely uncharted territory. They werepassionate, eager to make a difference, and filled withinnovative ideas, but they quickly realized thatenthusiasm alone was not enough to overcome themany hurdles they would face.
In the beginning, the team struggled with a lack of resources and limited access to funding, or convincing stakeholders—whether in the private sector, government, or the broader community—of the importance and feasibility of their projects was an uphill battle. But it was through these challenges that EFdeN found its strength. The team became adept at leveraging their creativity and resourcefulness to find solutions, learning to build compelling cases for their projects that highlighted bothenvironmental benefits and economic value.
Now, as EFdeN launches the Sustainability Leadership Program through the European Institute for Sustainability, they aim to pass on these lessons to the next generation of leaders. They understand firsthand the complexities and challenges of initiating sustainability projects in a nascent market and are committed to equipping others with the tools, insights, and networks needed to succeed
A comprehensive journey designed to empower professionals across sectors to become catalysts for sustainable change
A comprehensive journey designed to empower professionals across sectors to become catalysts for sustainable change
Through years of hands-on experience and countless challenges, the team at EFdeN learned a crucial lesson: the key to advancing sustainability lies in the combination of knowledge, strategy, and collaboration. This realization led to the development of a unique solution—the Sustainability Leadership Program, now offered through the European Institute for Sustainability by EFdeN.
This program is not just an educational initiative; it’s a comprehensive pathway designed to empower professionals across sectors to become catalysts for sustainable change. Recognizing the gaps in understanding and implementation of sustainability practices in Romania, the program was meticulously crafted to provide both foundational knowledge and practical, actionable strategies.
The impact of this program extends far beyond individual growth. By equipping a new generation of leaders with the skills and knowledge to advocate for and implement sustainable practices, the program aims to create ripple effects across industries and communities in Romania. Participants will leave the program ready to develop and lead initiatives that drive not only environmental but also economic and social benefits.
The Sustainability Leadership Program is designed to transform passion into action and ambition into achievement. It prepares you to navigate the complexities of sustainability with confidence and to drive systemic change within your organizations and beyond. Whether you’re looking to initiate new sustainability projects, improve existing strategies,or foster a culture of sustainability in your organization, this programoffers the resources and support to turn your vision into reality.
Meet our core team
Behind the Sustainability Leadership Program is a dedicated team of professionals from the European Institute for Sustainability by EFdeN, each bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience in sustainable development, education, and leadership. This program is more than justa series of lectures; it is a carefully curated learning experience, shaped by individuals who have walked the path of sustainability themselves and are committed to helping others succeed in this critical field.
Claudiu Butacu
Co-founder of EFdeN
Claudiu is a pioneering engineer and passionate NGO advocate, known for his leadership in renewable energy and sustainable construction. As the co-founder of EFdeN and energiaTa, Claudiu has been instrumental in implementing innovative solutions that promote a cleaner, greener future. He currently serves as a dedicated lecturer at SNSPA Bucharest and the Bucharest International School of Management, where he teaches courses on sustainability, including „People, Planet, Profit” and „Business & Environmental Sustainability: Reaching Net-Zero.” With a wealth of experience in engineering and managing renewable energy projects, Claudiu has established himself as a thought leader in sustainable construction. EFdeN’s international recognition for its groundbreaking work in sustainable construction underscores Claudiu’s belief that vision and action can create meaningful global change.
Corina Fugaru
Project Manager EFdeN
EIS Coordinator
Corina Fugaru plays a crucial role in EFdeN’s operations, contributing her expertise in project management and sustainability. With a focus on engaging communities and stakeholders in sustainability initiatives, Corina ensures that EFdeN’s educational and urban development projects are efficiently managed and executed. Her background in both business and sustainability equips her with the ability to navigate the complexities of sustainability in the modern urban landscape. Corina is passionate about creating sustainable solutions that benefit both society and the environment, and her work continues to inspire students and professionals across Romania.
Alina Balan
Program Facilitator and Mentor
Alina Balan is a facilitator with extensive experience in developing „human-centered” experiences, services, and products, using collaborative methods such as Design Thinking. A graduate of the EMBA program at Maastricht School of Management, Alina brings complex business perspectives to her projects.Currently, in addition to her work as a facilitator, Alina is part of the board of the International Association of Facilitators Romania and teaches courses on Design Thinking, Service Design, and Innovation at the Entrepreneurship Academy. She also actively contributes as a mentor for students at the Founder Institute, the largest pre-seed accelerator in the world.For five years, as a partner of the Design Thinking Society, Alina led co-creation projects and training sessions for a diverse range of clients, including Antibiotice SA, BCR, Bearing Point, Carrefour, Deloitte, EY, Google, HP, ING, Leroy Merlin, Lidl, OTP, Pall-Ex, and Raiffeisen Bank.In the early stages of her career, Alina accumulated over 14 years of experience in some of the largest PR, advertising, and branding companies in Romania, such as Golin, BrandTailors, and Mullen, developing award-winning campaigns both locally and internationally.
Andreia Mitrea
Program Facilitator and Mentor
Andreia brings over a decade of experience in sustainability education and project management. With a background in education innovation and a passion for sustainable teaching methods, she has been instrumental in developing the program’s curriculum, ensuring it addresses both current and emerging sustainability challenges.
Diana Stafie
Program Facilitator and Mentor
With a background in foresight and strategic planning, Diana specializes in helping organizations anticipate future sustainability trends and adapt their strategies accordingly. She is a recognized thought leader in the field of sustainable innovation, and her forward-thinking approach brings a unique perspective to the program.
Andrei Bejan
Program Facilitator and Mentor
Andrei Bejan is a sustainability expert and educator, particularly passionate about green buildings, sustainable development, and reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions. Currently a trainer at Romstal Academy, he specializes in promoting and implementing renewable energy solutions in the construction and installations sector. Andrei has been a key figure in Romania’s sustainability landscape, contributing to the EFdeN project, where he helped build Romania’s solar house for the Solar Decathlon Europe 2014 competition. He holds a PhD in Civil Engineering and Installations and has earned professional certifications in Green Building (RoGBC) and Sustainability Management (Lead SUS, Denkstatt). His work is focused on driving energy efficiency and sustainable practices across industries .
Introducing the SUSTAINABILITY LEADERSHIP PROGRAM The journey to a future where sustainability is not just a goal but a standard of excellence.
Here’s what your journey will look like:
Imagine a future where your professional efforts not only drive business success but also contribute to a healthier planet and a more equitable society. The Sustainability Leadership Program is your gateway to this future. Over the course of four transformative months, we invite you to embark on a journey that shifts your focus from the challenges of sustainability to the boundless opportunities it presents.
This program is designed to help you move from uncertainty to confidence, from hesitancy to bold action. You will learn from experts who have turned their vision into reality and from peers who share your commitment to making a difference. Through a blend of in-depth training, interactive workshops, and hands-on projects, you will develop the skills, knowledge, and network needed to lead with impact.
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Sustainable self
This module focuses on self-awareness, ethical grounding, and personal leadership capabilities as key foundations for effective sustainability leadership. Participants will explore personal values and ethics, learning to lead with authenticity and integrity. By aligning sustainability efforts with personal convictions, participants will gain the confidence and clarity needed to inspire others.
What’s in it for participants
Develop deep self-awareness and ethical grounding, essential for leading with integrity. Enhance personal leadership capabilities, preparing for future roles in sustainability. Improve emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills for effective leadership and collaboration.
What’s in it for organizations
Gain employees with a strong sense of ethics for responsible decision-making.
Develop motivated, self-aware leaders who can inspire and drive change within the organization.
Foster a culture of sustainability, integrity, and authenticity across the organization.
Sustainable teams
In this module, the focus shifts to leading interdisciplinary teams in the context of sustainability. Participants will develop the skills to effectively manage and inspire diverse teams, fostering collaboration, innovation, and collective action toward sustainability goals. The emphasis is on moving from siloed, discipline-specific work to cross-functional teamwork that drives sustainable outcomes.
2
What’s in it for participants
Learn to build and manage interdisciplinary teams to become high-performing. Foster collaboration and innovation within teams and organisations. Improve conflict resolution and team dynamics management skills.
What’s in it for organizations
Develop high-performing teams capable of driving collaborative sustainability initiatives.
Foster a culture of innovation through improved interdisciplinary collaboration.
Achieve increased employee satisfaction and loyalty through better team dynamics and support.
Strategic systems thinking
This module equips participants with the technical expertise, strategic vision, and relevant tools necessary for impactful sustainability work. Moving from fragmented knowledge to a comprehensive understanding of sustainability, participants will develop long-term thinking and project management skills to design and execute sustainable initiatives effectively.
3
What’s in it for participants
Gain employees capable of making informed, strategic decisions in sustainability projects.
Improve long-term planning and foresight within the organization.
Achieve a competitive advantage through innovative sustainability strategies.
What’s in it for organizations
Develop high-performing teams capable of driving collaborative sustainability initiatives.
Foster a culture of innovation through improved interdisciplinary collaboration.
Achieve increased employee satisfaction and loyalty through better team dynamics and support.
Finance and technology
Finance and technology are powerful enablers of sustainable transformation. This module explores how financial mechanisms and technological advancements can accelerate sustainability initiatives. Participants will learn to leverage financial instruments and innovations, preparing them to fund and scale sustainable solutions effectively.
4
What’s in it for participants
Understand the financial context and mechanisms that support sustainability.
Gain insights into sustainable transformation through technology.
Explore future trends in finance and technology as they relate to sustainability.
What’s in it for organizations
Achieve better optimisation of resources (financial and technological) for sustainability.
Facilitate the faster adoption of practices and innovations.
Future-proof the organization by staying ahead of technological and financial trends.
Sustainable story and case
Effective communication is crucial for influencing stakeholders and driving change. This module focuses on creating compelling business cases for sustainable projects and mastering storytelling, public speaking, and persuasion. Participants will develop the skills to position their sustainability visions effectively, crafting narratives that earn support.
5
What’s in it for participants
Craft compelling business cases for sustainable projects.
Master storytelling, public speaking, and pitching for sustainability.
Enhance personal and professional visibility as a leader in sustainability.
What’s in it for organizations
Achieve improved engagement with stakeholders through compelling sustainability narratives. Enjoy higher success rates in securing support for sustainable projects. Build a brand and reputation as a sustainability leader through effective communication by employees.
Tribe-based learning
Participants are grouped into dynamic tribes, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose. Each tribe is a diverse mix of professionals from different sectors, ensuring a rich exchange of ideas, experiences, and perspectives. This setup mirrors the collaborative nature of real-world sustainability efforts, where teamwork and cross-sector collaboration are essential.
Tribe coaches and mentors
Each tribe is guided by experienced coaches and mentors, who provide continuous support, feedback, and guidance throughout the program. These experts help to navigate the learning journey, fostering both individual growth and collective success.
Collaborative projects and challenges
The tribe members work on practical, real-world projects that simulate the complexities of sustainability leadership. These collaborative challenges encourage innovation, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills, preparing participants to tackle sustainability issues in their own organizations and communities.
Dynamic learning environment
The program is designed to be fluid and adaptable, much like the sustainability landscape itself. Interactive workshops, peer-to-peer learning, and hands-on experiences ensure that learning is not confined to the classroom but extends to real-life applications.
Building a lifelong network
By the end of the program, the tribe becomes more than just a learning group—it becomes a professional network. These connections extend beyond the program’s duration, offering continued support, collaboration, and opportunities long after the program ends.
Recognition and certification
Participants will receive a certificate from the European Institute for Sustainability by EFdeN, recognising their expertise and commitment to sustainability leadership. This credential not only enhances your professional profile but also signals your readiness to lead transformational change in your field.
The Sustainability Leadership Program is not just about individual learning; it’s about creating a community of change-makers. At the European Institute for Sustainability by EFdeN, we believe in the power of collaboration and collective growth. That’s why our program is designed around a unique „tribe” model, rather than traditional cohorts
Secure your place in this pioneering program. With a limited number of spots available, our intimate setting ensures that you receive focused attention, personalised coaching, and the opportunity to engage deeply with both peers and mentors.
Contact us to begin your enrolment process. Once you join, you’ll gain immediate access to preliminary materials to help you prepare for the program. You’ll also be invited to join our exclusive online community, where you can connect with fellow participants and start building your network even before the program begins. Remember, this is a unique opportunity to be part of the inaugural cohort of the Sustainability Leadership Program.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to elevate your career, expand your impact, and become a leader in sustainability. Make the decision today to invest in your professional growth and the future of our planet. Enroll today to secure your spot and begin your journey toward becoming a catalyst for sustainable change.