Sustainability-in-CPG-Smiling-Woman-Shopping-scaled Sustainability-in-CPG-Smiling-Woman-Shopping-scaled

Sustainability in CPG: Driving Talent Attraction with Green Practices

In the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry, sustainability is no longer just a trend. It’s becoming a core element of business strategies. As consumer demands for environmental responsibility grow, CPG companies are adapting. They’re embedding eco-friendly practices into their product lines and operations. This isn’t just about meeting regulations or consumer expectations. It’s a strategic way to attract and retain talented workers who value these principles.


Sustainability Trends in the CPG Industry


The CPG industry is actively adopting sustainable practices. Companies are reducing carbon footprints, using renewable resources, and minimizing waste with innovative packaging. These efforts are driven by consumer demand, technological advancements, and strategic business thinking. Investments are flowing into biodegradable materials and plastic reduction. Companies are also improving supply chain transparency to decrease their environmental impacts.


Such proactive engagement in sustainable practices does more than improve operations. It positions these companies as attractive employers.


Impact of Sustainability in CPG on Brand Image


A firm commitment to sustainability can significantly enhance a brand’s image. Consumers today favor brands that reflect their ethical and environmental values. Brands that adopt clear sustainability policies see increased loyalty and a stronger market presence. In a crowded market, environmental responsibility helps differentiate a brand. It attracts customers who support products and companies that align with their values.


sustainability in cpg recruiting


Integrating Sustainability into Recruitment


Sustainability is reshaping recruitment strategies in the CPG industry. Job seekers, especially millennials and Gen Z, often assess potential employers based on their environmental policies. Companies that emphasize their sustainability efforts tend to attract candidates who want their work to reflect their personal values.


Attracting Talent with Sustainability in CPG


To attract talent interested in sustainability, CPG companies should employ several strategies. First, they should communicate their environmental achievements and future goals clearly. This transparency should be evident in job descriptions, during interviews, and on career websites. It shows candidates that the company takes its environmental commitments seriously.


Second, companies should create roles specifically focused on sustainability. These positions attract professionals specialized in environmental management and sustainable operations. Such roles underline the importance of eco-friendly practices.


Moreover, sustainable office practices are crucial. Showcasing recycling programs, reduced energy use, and green building certifications can make a workplace appealing to environmentally conscious candidates. Offering engagement in sustainability projects through volunteering or corporate environmental events helps build a like-minded community within the company.


Case Studies


Let’s examine how specific CPG companies have integrated sustainability into their operations. Procter & Gamble (P&G) has set ambitious sustainability goals. These include achieving 100% recyclable packaging by 2030 and significantly reducing greenhouse emissions. Their efforts also involve using renewable energy and enhancing transportation efficiency. These initiatives not only reduce their environmental footprint but also save costs. This makes P&G an attractive employer committed to sustainable practices.


Tyson Foods has also embraced a comprehensive sustainability strategy. Their efforts focus on reducing environmental impacts and sustainably feeding the world. They engage their employees fully, offer personal development opportunities, and enhance workplace safety. These initiatives not only retain employees but also increase productivity. This shows Tyson’s dedication to sustainability and employee welfare.


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Attracting and Retaining Talent


For CPG companies, attracting talent who value sustainability is crucial. They need to continuously innovate and communicate their commitments effectively. By fostering a supportive work environment, companies can attract skilled professionals who are deeply committed to sustainable development.


As sustainability becomes integral to company cultures, it enhances corporate images. This strong image appeals to consumers, investors, and potential employees alike. Being recognized for sustainability efforts helps companies stand out in the competitive CPG industry.


Moreover, integrating sustainability into core business strategies positively impacts the environment and society. It appeals to a generation of workers and consumers who base their decisions on ethical considerations. This strategic approach is essential for long-term success.


The future of the CPG industry relies on balancing innovative business practices with environmental stewardship. This balance benefits the planet and helps businesses thrive in a dynamic marketplace. Proactive sustainability efforts pave the way for a sustainable future. They show that environmental responsibility can coincide with robust business growth.


Conclusion


The integration of sustainability into business operations and recruitment strategies provides significant advantages. It helps CPG companies attract and retain top talent. As the societal focus on environmental responsibility grows, companies that embrace sustainable practices will not only remain competitive but also lead in creating an eco-conscious marketplace.


CPG brands aligning their strategies with sustainable practices are making wise investments. They are not just improving their environmental footprint; they are also investing in a motivated, committed workforce. This investment pays off by aligning the workforce with broader corporate missions. Such alignment is increasingly a deciding factor for talented individuals seeking meaningful employment opportunities.

Our Impact

In 1995, our founders embarked on a journey that would disrupt the status quo of the executive recruiting industry. We have been transforming companies and lives ever since.

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9,395

First Round Interviews

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3,000+

Total Placements

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47%

Diversity Placements

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$700M

Economic Impact

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Brent Albertson

CEO, Zing Zang LLC

Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Non-Alcoholic Beverages

“ Our experience with Protis Global has been very positive. They have strong multi-industry CPG experience and understand our business model and standards. They know the difference between an “A-player” and a “B-player” in several functions, and the honesty around that standard helps us move faster. Mike and team set up a great process, especially in early canvassing and vetting that helps our leaders engage at the right time and make decisions fast. ”

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Colin Nolan

Executive Vice President, Mark Anthony Brewing Inc.

Beer, Wine & Spirits
Beer, Wine & Spirits

“Protis Global’s approach to talent acquisition is marked by diligence, transparency, and a genuine dedication to client satisfaction. Their strategic insights and personalized service have made a substantial impact on our organization, ensuring that we always have the best professionals driving our initiatives forward. The team at Protis Global demonstrates a keen ability to identify individuals who not only possess the requisite skills but also align seamlessly with our company culture.”

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Hilal Tabsh

Chief Revenue Officer, Glass House Brands

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Cannabis

“Over the last 10+ years my experience with Michael Bitar and the Protis Global team has been exceptional across multiple industries. Michael and his team work to get to the true needs of my hiring plan and partner with us throughout the process. They understand our business, company culture, what success looks like, and then propose candidates that will produce results while also fitting into our team dynamic. Overall it’s a great team and experience and I would recommend to anyone looking to hire top-notch quality candidates reach out to Protis Global and Michael Bitar.”

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Peter Iglesias

Chief Executive Officer, Bespoken Spirits

Beer, Wine, & Spirits
Beer, Wine, & Spirits

“I highly recommend Protis Global as a top-notch recruiting agency. I have had the pleasure of working with them for the past 15 years, both as a candidate and employer in the Spirits and Wine industry. In my 25 years of experience, I have found Protis Global to be the most efficient and effective recruiting agency I have ever dealt with. Protis Global has consistently come through for me in the clutch, providing exceptional professionalism and execution in job searches and placements. Their dedication to finding the right fit for both candidates and employers sets them apart from other agencies. I have always been impressed by their ability to understand the needs of both parties and successfully connect them in a timely manner.”

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Soley Van Lokeren

SVP, People

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Non-Alcoholic Beverages

“I have been in the field of human resources for over thirty years, in executive level roles both in-house and in outsourced positions. Michael Bitar is my favorite talent acquisition professional with which I have ever worked. He cares deeply about building a relationship with his clients, learning their business, culture, challenges, and truly understanding the needs of a role requisition. His approach is mirrored by the rest of the Protis team, who are courteous, thorough, and who make you feel like you are their only client. Protis successfully delivered hires for our Chief Commercial Officer role and for three key challenging roles (in both Marketing and Sales). They are simply – the best!”

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Brian Kuz

Chief Sales Officer

Food & Snacks
Food & Snacks

“Protis is unique in their go-to-market strategy in that they not only find the right candidate for the role, but they find the right opportunity and company for the candidate. Protis Global looks for people who are ready to make a change...I will continue to recommend Protis Global as one of the best placement agencies in the World, as I have worked on every continent and have dealt with the big executive placement firms and the boutique ones. Protis shines above all, and as long as I am hiring, I will continue to go to Protis Global first, if not exclusively.”

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Chris Hall

CEO, poppi

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Non-Alcoholic Beverages

“Partnering with Protis Global has been a game-changer for poppi. They understood our vision and the unique challenges we faced as a rapidly growing brand. Their expertise in executive search helped us find the right leaders who not only fit our culture but also brought the skills and passion needed to drive accelerated growth. The Protis Global team actively took our feedback and adapted the search so that we could focus on what we do best – creating innovative, healthy beverages that our customers love. They’ve truly become an extension of our team, and we couldn’t imagine achieving our success without the team members they helped us to bring aboard.”

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Chad Palma

President of Sales, Spindrift

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Non-Alcoholic Beverages

“Michael Bitar and the Protis team have been such a pleasure to work with over the years. Not only do they do amazing work with recruiting but we have also developed a partnership between our two companies. Michael and his team provide a crucial role in reviewing my hiring needs at the beginning of each year. Once the review is complete, Michael begins searching for quality candidates that fit the role and culture for Spindrift. He and his team do an outstanding job of finding the right candidates for the position in need. I highly recommend Michael and the Protis team for your hiring needs.”

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John Sacksteder

President, Mark Anthony Brewing Inc

Beer, Wine & Spirits
Beer, Wine & Spirits

“From the start, the relationship with Protis Global was different than other recruiting firms.  The team had a deeper level of commitment and desire to learn about our business than I had experienced with other firms. Our company was experiencing a time of exponential growth and our staffing needs were complex. We needed very experienced people across every possible function in the Operation and Supply Chain Teams and we needed them in a hurry. The Protis Global Team mobilized quickly and established a methodology to identify strong candidates and work them through the interview process in a professional and timely manner. Their grit, determination, understanding our needs and culture, sense of urgency and drive to exceed our expectations set them apart from the pack.”

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Kathleen Hutchison

Senior National Account Manager at Arla Foods

Food & Snacks
Food & Snacks

Kayla was awesome and very thorough in her vetting of candidates. She understood our brief as we were looking for candidates and helped to weed through those who were not a good fit for the role. 

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Thomas Frisch

Chief People Officer at IJW Whiskey

Beer, Wine & Spirits
Beer, Wine & Spirits

“The team worked quickly and efficiently to find a unique position.”

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Kim Nguyen

VP of Supply Chain at Lallemand

Beer, Wine & Spirits
Beer, Wine & Spirits

Everyone involved was extremely helpful - Gary, Michael, Ben - thank you!! The team didn't only search for candidates based on the job description, but also the qualities that I look for in candidates. 

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Shashank Gaur

VP of Product Technology & Innovation

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Non-Alcoholic Beverages

The interview process was smooth and extremely professional. Ben and team represented me as much as they represented the company. 

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Jeremy Schulman

Regional Business Manager - Foodservice

Food & Snacks
Food & Snacks

Consistent communication, updates, and detailed knowledge of the client. The whole experience was top notch!

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Blake T. Bermingham

Supply Chain Manager

Beer, Wine, & Spirits
Beer, Wine, & Spirits

Very simplistic process finding the right role for the right candidate...keep up the great work! 

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Don Stohrer Jr.

CEO, Arla Foods USA

Food & Snacks
Food & Snacks

“We’ve been a Protis Global client for eight years, and during this time have always appreciated the thoroughness of the recruitment process, as the candidates brought to us have been well-vetted, not only from a competency perspective, but more importantly from a [cultural] fit dynamic. Mike and the team have always been highly engaged to ensure they bring us candidates that match our culture. That’s been critical to the success of the candidates that have landed here by way of our relationship with Protis.”

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