Principal Program Lead, Sustainability

Chick-fil-A, Inc. ('Chick-fil-A' or 'the Company') Staff members play a vital role in achieving our strategic goals by developing their skills, fostering inclusive teamwork, and embracing innovation. All Staff are expected to contribute to a compelling future by inspiring and motivating those around them. Growth and development are essential at Chick-fil-A. We want Staff to seek new perspectives and adopt new methods to drive continuous improvement and adaptation to evolving business needs. Lastly, we ask Staff to seek wisdom, expect the best, accept responsibility, respond with courage, and think others first.

Our Flexible Futures Model offers a healthy mix of working in person and virtually, strengthening key elements of the Chick-fil-A culture by fostering collaboration and community.

Overview

This role will lead the development and oversee the implementation of Chick-fil-A’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) strategy. Additionally, this role will ensure compliance with sustainability regulations related to waste and recycling, as well as oversee the waste & recycling rate optimization for restaurants. The selected candidate will provide subject matter expertise on circular economy matters, foster sustainable practices across operations, as well as represent Chick-fil-A at trade organizations on these topics.

This role will interface cross-functionally with Government Affairs, Legal/Regulatory, Menu & Packaging, Finance, Enterprise Risk Management, Supply Chain, CFA Supply, Operations, Design, and Facilities & Equipment. The job position will be responsible for orchestrating compliance and will drive best practices in this space.

Responsibilities

This is a professional role with no current people leadership responsibilities. However, leading partner suppliers, identifying key stakeholders, developing relationships, and influencing teams and leadership will be key outcomes.

Responsibilities Include

• Developing and implementing the company's Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) strategy.
• Ensuring compliance with all relevant sustainability regulations, particularly those pertaining to waste management and recycling.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory trends in sustainability to keep the company up to date with new requirements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate sustainability practices into product design, manufacturing, and end-of-life management.
• Represent the company at trade organizations, industry conferences, and regulatory meetings.
• Analyze and report on the effectiveness of our EPR programs and seek opportunities to reduce costs.
• Provide training and support to Operators and other internal stakeholders on EPR and sustainability compliance requirements.
• Develop partnerships with industry peers and trade organizations to advance recycling rates for the industry.
• Manage waste & recycling optimization program for Operators
• Prepare and manage budgets related to sustainability policy projects and initiatives.
  
  

Required Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities)

• 6 years of experience in sustainability or environmental compliance, with a focus on waste management and recycling
• Strong understanding of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) principles and regulations.
• Excellent knowledge of sustainability regulations and legislation.
• Proven track record in developing and implementing sustainability strategies and programs.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience representing organizations in trade groups, industry forums, and regulatory bodies.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage complex projects.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Passion for sustainability and a commitment to driving positive environmental change.
• Demonstrated mindset to grow, continually learn and improve
  
  

Preferred Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities)

• 7-12 years of experience in sustainability or environmental compliance, with a focus on waste management and recycling.
• Knowledge of sustainability reporting frameworks.
• Understanding of sustainable materials and manufacturing processes.
• Familiarity with environmental metrics (Life Cycle Assessment, carbon footprint reduction).
• Knowledge of material standards set forth by industry trade groups.
• Certificate of Sustainable Packaging (CSP).
  
  

Required Years Of Experience

6

Preferred Years Of Experience

7

Travel Requirements

10%

Required Level Of Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience

Preferred Level Of Education

Bachelor's Degree

Preferred Major/Concentration

Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Packaging Engineering, Materials Science, Environmental Science

Relocation Assistance Provided

No