Communications and networking technology giant Cisco has appointed Colin Seward as its new Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO).
Seward has been with Cisco for more than 25 years, having joined the company in 2000. Throughout his tenure, he has held several senior leadership positions across technology, IT transformation, and sustainability functions.
His previous roles include serving as Chief Information Officer (CIO) for EMEA and Global Lead for Cisco on Cisco, the company’s internal program that utilizes Cisco’s own products to operate, test, and manage its global IT infrastructure while sharing insights and best practices with customers.
He also served as IT Transformation Lead, where he developed the IT Sustainability Framework to align with Cisco’s broader Net Zero Strategy.
Extensive Experience Across Technology and Sustainability
Most recently, Colin Seward served as a Senior Director in Cisco’s Chief Sustainability Office, where he oversaw the technology and data infrastructure required to support the company’s sustainability strategy and execution.
In this role, he played a key part in advancing Cisco’s sustainability initiatives while helping customers address their sustainability objectives and broader business goals.
His appointment reflects Cisco’s continued focus on integrating sustainability into business operations, technology innovation, and customer engagement.
Leadership Transition at Cisco
Seward succeeds Mary de Wysocki, who became Cisco’s first Chief Sustainability Officer in 2022.
De Wysocki has transitioned to a new leadership position within the company as Chief Learning & Future Readiness Officer, where she will lead Cisco Learning and future workforce development initiatives.
The leadership transition comes as sustainability continues to play an increasingly important role in corporate strategy, operational execution, and stakeholder engagement across the technology industry.
Sustainability as a Business Priority
Announcing his appointment, Colin Seward emphasized the growing importance of sustainability within Cisco’s long-term vision and business strategy.
According to Seward:
“Sustainability is an important part of Cisco’s Purpose to Power an Inclusive Future for All, and it is increasingly connected to business strategy, operational execution, and customer value.”
He further stated:
“In this role, I’ll lead Cisco’s global sustainability strategy, with a focus on helping translate sustainability goals into measurable action and business value for Cisco and our customers.”
Supporting Cisco’s Sustainability Goals
As Chief Sustainability Officer, Seward will be responsible for leading Cisco’s global sustainability agenda, focusing on the integration of environmental and business objectives across the organization.
His responsibilities are expected to include:
- Advancing Cisco’s sustainability strategy
- Supporting the company’s Net Zero commitments
- Driving operational sustainability initiatives
- Strengthening customer sustainability solutions
- Leveraging technology and data to measure progress
- Creating long-term business value through sustainability programs
The appointment underscores Cisco’s commitment to using technology and innovation to address environmental challenges while helping customers achieve their own sustainability targets.
Technology Industry Focuses on Sustainable Growth
The appointment comes at a time when sustainability is becoming a key strategic priority for global technology companies.
Organizations across the sector are increasingly investing in:
- Carbon reduction initiatives
- Energy-efficient technologies
- Sustainable supply chains
- Data-driven sustainability reporting
- Climate action and net-zero programs
Technology companies are also playing a critical role in enabling customers to reduce emissions, improve operational efficiency, and achieve sustainability goals through digital transformation.
A New Chapter for Cisco’s Sustainability Leadership
With more than two decades of experience at Cisco and a deep understanding of both technology and sustainability, Colin Seward is well-positioned to lead the company’s next phase of sustainability efforts.
His expertise in IT transformation, data management, infrastructure optimization, and sustainability strategy aligns closely with Cisco’s vision of creating business value while driving positive environmental and social impact.
As organizations increasingly seek measurable sustainability outcomes, Cisco’s continued investment in leadership and innovation demonstrates its commitment to supporting a more sustainable and inclusive future through technology.
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