Consultant spotlight: Laura Gibson
Laura joined Sancroft in 2024, bringing with her a diverse range of experiences from the sustainability and creative industries. We spoke with her about her passions and what shapes her approach.
Where does your interest in sustainability stem from?
I grew up on a small farm in Gloucestershire. There I saw how passionate my parents are about environmental stewardship, so I guess sustainability is in my bones.
I initially trained for a degree in the creative industries, where I was drawn to designing high-quality, emotionally durable products that told stories. That led me to the luxury industry, where I worked closely with amazing craftspeople, fabric suppliers and manufacturers.
Later, I went back to study for a Master’s in Sustainability Leadership at the University of Cambridge. That really opened my eyes to the complex aspects of sustainability, from finance systems and regulation to human rights, communication and governance. I wrote my thesis on sustainable supply chain management in luxury textiles, with a focus on stakeholder engagement and how perceptions of sustainability differ depending on awareness, geography and experience.
Why did you choose to join Sancroft?
My Master’s degree gave me a new perspective on considering the nuances of businesses and, also, developing holistic strategies that are meaningful for people and the planet. I was drawn to Sancroft because the work that the team does mirrors this approach. We work closely with clients to design strategies that don’t just meet regulatory needs, but engage both internal and external stakeholders to drive positive action and create long-term value.
We work with fascinating industries on a wide range of topics, from sustainability strategies, to human rights due diligence and solutions for a circular economy. Plus, the team come from a range of backgrounds, which helps me to keep learning as the field continues to accelerate forwards.
I love that we’re a B Corp too. I’m really excited to support Sancroft as we review and implement the new standards.
What have you been most proud of in your career so far?
I like to celebrate both bigger achievements and the smaller wins. I think that’s a good approach for sustainability in general.
As the first person in my family to go to university, one of the things that made me most proud was studying at Cambridge University in a subject that I truly believe in.
Another great moment was working with a client at Sancroft who, by coincidence, my grandfather had worked for over 30 years. Working on that client review was a great privilege, helping to support their strategy and funding opportunities so that they can continue for decades to come.
I also contribute to the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Ethics and Sustainability in Fashion. I love this work because policy and regulation are hugely important to drive sustainability around the world and create level playing field. We’re not delivering silver bullets, but we are creating a solid base line which businesses can follow – like a foundation – to build robust and ambitious sustainability strategies that are tailored to their needs.
What are you hoping to achieve in your role?
I want to help move the perception of sustainability from a compliance burden to being a strategic value-driver for business. That means identifying and mitigating risks, building stronger and fairer relationships with stakeholders and helping businesses position themselves for a bright and resilient future – especially through opportunities like the circular economy.
What can Sancroft clients expect from working with you?
I’ve lectured on sustainability in the creative sectors at UAL and London Met. I really enjoy helping clients upskill, whether it’s around reporting requirements, navigating the Green Claims Code, or building internal capacity.
More generally I like to help clients to build meaningful and engaging strategies, using storytelling to engage stakeholders and pushing sustainability forwards to create a positive, equitable and inclusive future.
I use my creative training to think laterally and strategically – simplifying complex problems and solutions into engaging and easy to follow processes.
Having worked previously as Head of Sustainability at a SaaS firm, I’m also interested in how tech and AI can be used for good in the sector. However, I’m ever mindful of the ESG challenges these technologies bring.
And finally, what do you get up to when you’re not advising our clients?
I’m a mentor with Arts Emergency. Through this work I support pre-university students from underrepresented backgrounds, helping them to understand the creative industry, the university application process and more.
I’m also a keen hiker and always try to get out into nature whenever possible. I’ve hiked across the UK and Europe, from the Harz Mountains to the Caucasus. I’m also a big advocate of responsible tourism and slow travel, taking time to plan trips that support local, ethical initiatives – like visiting traditional musicians in Rajasthan or learning about traditional viticulture in Georgia. I love making and mending things and attending music festivals when I can.