Lael Giebel, MBA, LEED AP
Lael Giebel, MBA, LEED AP, is a dynamic leader in corporate sustainability, currently serving as Director of Global Sustainability at KnowBe4. With nearly two decades of experience across corporate, government, nonprofit, and textile sectors, Lael has built a career around driving meaningful environmental impact through systems change, biodiversity protection, circularity, and sustainable growth. She leads sustainability initiatives across 12 countries, including net-zero carbon programs, zero waste strategies, and employee engagement campaigns, while fostering a culture where environmental stewardship aligns with business success.
Throughout her career, Lael has held a variety of leadership roles, including Chief of Staff to the City Manager, VP of Administration, and Director of Operations in the garment industry, which have equipped her with expertise in managing complex operations, guiding organizations through change, and creating collaborative solutions. She has also lived and worked internationally, including more than three years in Indonesia, and has managed remote teams across Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Americas, giving her a global perspective on sustainability challenges and opportunities.
Lael’s commitment to environmental stewardship extends beyond her professional work. She serves on multiple boards, including Ocean Allies and the Dunedin Fine Arts Center, and contributes to the Lake Earle Conservation Trust. An award-winning author and speaker, Lael emphasizes optimism, accountability, and collaboration, aiming to translate organizational initiatives into tangible, real-world outcomes for communities and the planet. She holds an MBA in Sustainability, a BA in Cultural Anthropology, and LEED AP certification, and actively engages in community-led conservation efforts and corporate sustainability education.
• AI and Sustainability: Digital Innovation for a Changing World
• Google AI Essentials
• Artificial Intelligence Fundamentals
• Certificate of Nonprofit Board Education
• Executive Women in Leadership
• Designated Project Manager
• USF Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification
• Certified Climate Change Ambassador
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Workplace Certificate
• Security Awareness and Culture Professional
• TRUE Advisor
• Envision Sustainability Professional
• Green Globes Professional
• LEED AP Building Design & Construction
• San Francisco Institute of Architecture- M.B.A.
• School for International Training
• University of California, Davis- B.A.
• Universitas Gadjah Mada
• Sustainable Business Award
• Global Executive of the Year Award
• Sustainability Leadership Award
• Tech Cares Award
• NYC Big Book Award Distinguished Favorite
• President's Award Silver Medal
• Sustainability Champion Finalist
• Outstanding Environmental Partner Award
• Tech Cares Award for Excelling in Sustainability and Environmental Practices
• Environmental Steward
• Green Business Partnership Award
• Tech Cares Award for Goodwill Efforts
• Certificate of Appreciation
• Green School Award Finalist
• Dunedin Fine Art Center
• Ocean Allies
• Women in Cleantech and Sustainability
• Association of Climate Change Officers
• International Society of Sustainability Professionals
• National Association of Environmental Professionals
• Amplify Clearwater
• Green Building Initiative
• USGBC
• National Language Service Corps
• Spring Valley School Board
• TB Living Green Expo Steering Committee
• ANZO - Australia
• Cherish the Children Foundation
• Pinellas County Schools
• Pinellas County Government
• BERKELEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
• International Rescue Committee
• Berkeley Public Library Foundation
• Children's Hospital Oakland Research Institute
• University of California, Davis
• National Language Service Corps
• Keep Pinellas Beautiful
• City of Clearwater
• Lake Earle Conservation Trust
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to optimism, accountability, and a commitment to doing work well, while valuing collaboration and mentorship to turn organizational initiatives into meaningful, real-world impact.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering sustainability to stay optimistic, trust their transferable skills, seek guidance from peers and mentors, and remain confident, because this field thrives on diverse talents and perspectives.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in sustainability right now are the emotional toll of frequent negative news and political uncertainty, but there are significant opportunities as organizations remain committed to sustainability goals, creating space for newcomers to make an impact.
