Chloe Vos

Sustainability Advisor, Briscoe Group
Bachelor of Business in Management and Leadership with minors in Economic and Social Policy & Sustainable Enterprise

She has long been passionate about changing the way we do business in Aotearoa, says Chloe Vos who now works as a sustainability advisor for the Briscoe Group.

“I’m really interested in anything to do with business sustainability and all things social justice. In my role as a sustainability advisor, I lead the delivery of our sustainability strategy and provide ESG advice across the business; supporting governance, reporting and performance.”

She says she feels genuinely grateful that her role is aligned with her personal values and gives her the chance to be a change maker.

“There’s so much opportunity to influence positive outcomes and help shape a culture where business and sustainability support one another in meaningful ways. Sustainability is constantly evolving, adapting to the systems and business environments it sits within. In a time when the business landscape feels uncertain, I’m genuinely excited about the role sustainability can play in building resilient businesses that generate long-term value. I feel grateful to be part of a wider community of sustainability professionals who are all working toward the same goal.

“But what I enjoy most is the people side of the work. I love meeting people where they are, whether they’re not interested in sustainability at all or they’re deeply passionate about it. Everyone has their own motivations, and I find it rewarding to understand what matters to them and explore how sustainability can fit into that.”

Choosing AUT
Chloe says she initially chose to study business at AUT after chatting to her friends and family about which university offered the best student experience.

“Unlike with other universities, my peers expressed their love for the community vibe of AUT, the diversity, the collaborative learning style and the supportive lecturers. I can say all of the above is true. People in my classes were so willing to go out of their way to help each other succeed. Everyone also comes from diverse backgrounds; providing a wide range of perspectives and rich conversations.

“I chose the AUT business degree as it has a strong focus on intertwining sustainability into all aspects of the programme. It takes into consideration the changing landscapes for business as climate change becomes a more pressing issue. I’ve particularly loved having guest lecturers who shared their success stories and failures. Many of my lecturers were also highly involved in public and private sector sustainability work. I loved hearing from people who are enacting positive change. It was encouraging and inspiring, and helped us visualise where we could one day be. I also liked the practical aspect of completing workplace experience in the final year. This gives you a foot in the door and valuable experience as you begin your career. Lastly, AUT makes you feel valued. Through a range of support services, dedicated staff and amazing opportunities, there’s a whole community behind you who want to see you succeed.”

Receiving an AUT Find your Greatness Scholarship also made studying much easier for her.

“I was lucky enough to receive the AUT Find your Greatness Scholarship, which took a lot of the financial strain away from attending university and meant that I didn’t leave university with a huge student loan weighing on my shoulders. For many, financials are a huge barrier to attending university and for students that’s a constant stress. I’d highly recommend to anyone wanting to attend university to apply for as many scholarships as possible because you never know, you may get it!”

Advice for other students
You get as much out of uni as you give it, Chloe reminds other students.

“Chat to people in class, ask questions and be open to discussions. I wish I had started asking and answering questions more at university. I get it, tall poppy syndrome is real, but trust me when I say you’ll be way more engaged in what you’re learning.”

It helps if you study something you’re interested in, she adds.

“The final piece of advice I’d give is to study what you’re passionate about. University will be so much easier when you’re interested in what you’re learning!”