Bridging Business and Sustainability: How EDHEC Is Shaping My Path to ESG Consulting

Originally from Buffalo, New York, Ryan Ritchie is a Master’s student passionate about making businesses cleaner, more efficient, and environmentally responsible. In this interview, Ryan shares what led him to the MSc in Global & Sustainable Business at EDHEC Business School, how hands-on learning and real-world faculty shaped his perspective, and why he sees ESG consulting as the ideal path to drive lasting change.

What inspired you to pursue this programme and make the move from Buffalo, New York to study abroad?

I’ve always been interested in how we can make businesses more sustainable and efficient, and contribute to a greener, more interconnected global economy. I didn’t just want the theory—I wanted to know how to apply these ideas. EDHEC’s MSc in Global & Sustainable Business really stood out to me because it balances big-picture thinking with real-world implementation.

You mentioned the professors play a crucial role. Can you elaborate on what makes their approach stand out?

What’s unique is that most of them have worked in both academia and the private sector. They bring a grounded, realistic perspective—teaching not just what should be done, but what can be done. It’s about understanding feasibility and how to drive meaningful change within actual business constraints.

Can you share a class or project that really brought those ideas to life?

The sourcing class was a standout. We explored how to build sustainable infrastructure and went through a simulation focused on green supply chains and the circular economy. It wasn’t just abstract concepts—it felt real, like we were preparing to advise actual companies.

You mentioned the circular economy—how has your understanding of that evolved?

Before the programme, I thought the circular economy was just a way for companies to boost their image or profits without truly caring about the environment. But learning the logic behind it—how closed-loop systems can be both economically smart and environmentally sound—completely shifted my mindset. I now see it as a legitimate strategy.

How has that shift influenced your confidence or sense of purpose?

It’s been really empowering. I feel like I have tools that companies actually need—whether that’s explaining sustainability concepts or identifying areas where they can improve. There’s a huge information gap out there, and being able to help bridge that feels incredibly motivating.

You’re aiming to become an ESG consultant—what draws you to that role?

What excites me about ESG consulting is that it’s about helping companies evolve from the inside. It’s not about pointing fingers—it’s about partnering with businesses that want to do better but need guidance. Being that person who helps them reduce their impact and improve their operations—that’s exactly the kind of impact I want to make.