Brendan May: Sustainable Business Entrepreneur and Influential Leader
Brendan May is a name that resonates strongly in the world of sustainability. Known for his influential role in shaping sustainable business practices, he is a passionate advocate for pragmatic, fact-based environmentalism. As the founder and chairman of Robertsbridge, Brendan May has worked with some of the most prominent multinational corporations in the world, guiding them towards more sustainable and environmentally responsible practices. His journey is a compelling story of leadership, impact, and dedication to making the world a better place for future generations.
Who is Brendan May?
Brendan May is an accomplished entrepreneur and sustainability expert with over two decades of experience in shaping corporate sustainability strategies. He is best known for founding Robertsbridge, a global sustainability consultancy that advises multinational companies on various aspects of sustainable business practices, from environmental responsibility to social and governance (ESG) strategies.
Throughout his career, Brendan has played an instrumental role in helping brands like Nestlé, PepsiCo, Unilever, Cargill, and many others navigate the challenges of modern-day sustainability. His expertise in business-NGO relations, sustainability communications, and environmental policy has made him a highly sought-after advisor in the field.
Founding Robertsbridge and Advancing Global Sustainability
In 2010, Brendan May founded Robertsbridge with the goal of helping businesses develop sustainable practices that not only protect the planet but also deliver long-term value. Robertsbridge’s clients include some of the largest companies in the world, including major players in the food and beverage industry, retail, and energy sectors.
Under Brendan’s leadership, Robertsbridge has become a trusted name in sustainability consultancy. The firm’s work spans a wide range of industries, helping organizations develop strategies to meet environmental goals while balancing economic growth. Robertsbridge has also worked closely with organizations in high-impact sectors like palm oil production, paper and packaging, and agriculture, advising them on how to reduce their environmental footprint while maintaining profitability.
Brendan May’s Role at The Metals Company
In June 2024, Brendan May joined The Metals Company (TMC) as a board member, a company focused on the sustainable extraction of metals necessary for the transition to clean energy. TMC is exploring the collection of polymetallic nodules from the seafloor as a more environmentally sustainable source of metals required for electric vehicles and low-carbon energy. Brendan’s role at TMC involves sitting on the board and chairing the Sustainability & Innovation Committee, where he is helping steer the company toward making a significant contribution to the global decarbonization effort.
The Metals Company’s approach aims to reduce the environmental and human costs associated with traditional land-based mining by sourcing metals from the deep ocean floor. This innovative solution aligns with Brendan’s vision of creating a cleaner, more sustainable future while meeting the increasing demand for critical metals.
A Career Focused on Sustainability
Brendan May’s career has been characterized by a consistent focus on creating value through sustainability. Before founding Robertsbridge, he served as the Chief Executive of the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), where he helped establish the organization as a leading force in the certification of sustainable fisheries. He was also the European Chairman of the Rainforest Alliance, helping the non-profit organization grow its impact across the region. His leadership roles in these organizations gave him a deeper understanding of the challenges of balancing business goals with environmental responsibility.
In addition, Brendan served as Managing Director of the corporate responsibility practice at Weber Shandwick, where he led a global sustainability division, Planet 2050. His work at Weber Shandwick involved advising major corporations on how to integrate sustainability into their core business practices and communications.
Throughout his career, Brendan has consistently advocated for a more integrated approach to sustainability, one that takes into account both environmental and social factors. His approach is pragmatic and based on data-driven decision-making, which has helped him become a thought leader in the field of corporate sustainability.
Advocacy and Public Speaking
In addition to his work with clients and organizations, Brendan May is a passionate advocate for sustainability in the public sphere. He is a regular commentator on sustainability issues and has written columns for respected publications such as Business Green, EcoBusiness, and Greenbiz.com. He has also made numerous appearances on radio shows, including ABC Radio National in Australia and the BBC’s ‘Big Green Money Show,’ where he has shared his insights on the challenges and opportunities in the sustainability space.
Brendan’s thought leadership extends beyond his written work. He regularly participates in public speaking engagements and serves as a chair for advisory panels and boards. For example, he recently completed a four-year term as Chairman of Cargill’s Land Use & Forests Sustainability Advisory Panel, where he provided independent guidance on deforestation issues in key agricultural commodities.
Priti Patel Controversy
Brendan May’s outspoken views on sustainability issues have often led him to comment on broader societal matters, including politics. He has publicly criticized the policies of various political figures, most notably Priti Patel, the UK Home Secretary. In his social media posts, he has made pointed remarks about Patel’s stance on immigration and environmental issues, drawing attention to his critical approach to government policies.
Brendan’s activism extends beyond corporate sustainability to advocating for pragmatic environmentalism at all levels of society. His candid commentary on policy, paired with his practical approach to sustainability, has made him a significant figure in both business and public discussions on environmental responsibility.
Family Life and Personal Background
Brendan May’s personal life remains relatively private, but what is known is that he is married and enjoys spending time with his family. He was educated at the University of Oxford, where he studied Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE), a background that has greatly influenced his approach to sustainability and social responsibility. He also co-founded Oxford Student Radio (Oxygen 107FM) during his university years, showcasing his early interest in communication and media.
Conclusion
Brendan May’s career is a testament to the impact that one individual can have on global sustainability efforts. As the founder and chairman of Robertsbridge, he has guided multinational companies toward more responsible business practices. Through his work with The Metals Company, he is helping pave the way for the sustainable extraction of the metals needed for the clean energy transition. Brendan’s leadership, advocacy, and commitment to pragmatic, fact-based environmentalism make him a prominent figure in the sustainability world, and his work continues to inspire businesses and individuals to adopt more sustainable practices. As we face the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, leaders like Brendan May are showing the way forward, one sustainable step at a time.
