Meet Amanda Yates, 3M’s New Chief Sustainability Officer

Manufacturer 3M focuses on sustainability efforts within its operations and beyond, with a SBTi-validated target to reduce Scope 3 emissions by 42% by 2030.

It has announced a shake-up in its sustainability leadership, as Gayle Schueller leaves the Chief Sustainability Officer role after five years.

She is succeeded by Amanda Yates, who is set to continue her 13-year tenure with 3M.

Amanda’s career so far

Amanda joined 3M in 2013, previously having worked at Interbrand Design Forum and SeaWorld.

Her first role at 3M was Director for Corporate Brand Strategy, before holding Director positions in Analytics, Price Strategy and Activation.

In 2021, she became Senior Director of Global Sustainability, her most recent role.

In this position, Amanda helped develop the company’s corporate sustainability strategy including overseeing the SBTi validation of its emissions targets.

She worked on external engagement with UN Global Compact, World Resources Institute and other NGOs, as well as internal engagement with employees.

She brings almost 30 years of career experience to her new position as CSO at 3M.

Amanda writes on LinkedIn: “From my first role as an environmental specialist at SeaWorld Orlando to now stepping into the Chief Sustainability Officer role at 3M, this journey feels incredibly full-circle.

“Sustainability has always meant something more personal – a way of thinking about impact, responsibility and the future we’re helping shape. I’m deeply grateful for the chance to continue this work in a role that feels both meaningful and humbling, at a company that believes in the power of science, innovation and long-term impact.

“I’m especially thankful for Gayle’s leadership and support. Her example has meant a great deal to me and I’ve learned so much from the way she had led with purpose, clarity and conviction. I’m honoured to build on the foundation she helped create.

“It’s a privilege to begin this next chapter at 3M and to have the opportunity to keep learning, leading and contributing alongside such a talented team.”

Gayle Schueller’s impact at 3M

Amanda is taking on the role of CSO from Gayle Schueller, who is leaving 3M after 34 years with the company.

Gayle first joined 3M in 1992 as a Technical Leader for Corporate Research.

Throughout her time with the company, she has worked across Electronics, R&D, Growth, Commercialisation and Sustainability.

Amanda has been CSO for eight years, becoming a Senior Vice President for the last five.

She leaves behind a huge legacy at 3M, where she has been responsible for identifying, initiating and driving the company’s global sustainability strategy across its enterprise.

Gayle said on LinkedIn: “Trying to summarise my 3M journey is nearly impossible. It has been global, diverse, challenging, rewarding and far more meaningful than I could have imagined.

“I’ve had the privilege of leading across multiple businesses, functions and geographies – from operating roles and business leadership to a central role in shaping 3M’s enterprise sustainability transformation. Along the way, I gained a deep appreciation for how strategy, innovation, operations, talent and purpose come together to create lasting value.

“I’m also excited to share that Amanda Yates will succeed me as 3M’s Chief Sustainability Officer. Amanda and I have worked closely together, and I have great confidence in her leadership and in the talented team around her to continue advancing 3M’s sustainability journey in new and innovative ways.

“Sustainability leadership is ultimately business leadership – integrating innovation, resilience, risk management, stakeholder expectations and long-term value creation. In my next chapter, I look forward to more time with family and friends, pursuing personal goals, continuing to learn and exploring new ways to contribute where my experience can help create impact.”