"Be the change you wish to see in the world."-Mahatma gandhi
Maya Jaber, Ph.D., LEED BD+C
I am a creative, results-driven thinker who grew up immersed in the design and build industry of New York City. My career began as a draftsman in an architecture firm, where I helped develop building standards, and grew into roles as an account and project manager. That chapter culminated in shaping interior design standards for the Northwell Health hospital system.
In 2008, I launched my certified woman-owned consultancy, which was recognized by Citi and QEDC as an Innovative Startup. As a social entrepreneur, I began guiding small to midsize firms into the sustainability marketplace—a mission that has since evolved into a lifelong passion.
Today, I advise, educate, and support organizations committed to becoming socially sustainable. My work spans both for-profit and non-profit sectors, helping leaders and teams to:
- Create strategies for cultural transformation
- Optimize organizational and building performance
- Develop policies, branding, and communication strategies that foster transparency and trust
At the core of everything I do is a belief: that with intention, empathy, and innovation, organizations can thrive while making a meaningful impact on people and the planet.
Why I do what I do?
I grew up in a family that believed deeply in helping others, fighting for justice, and respecting every person—regardless of color, status, or religion. With roots in law, architecture, engineering, and medicine, my family shaped my values and passions. As a creative, I was naturally drawn to the architectural influence, and I built my early career in that industry.
Over time, I began to see a bigger truth: everything we design, build, and manufacture carries consequences. I witnessed firsthand how our actions were damaging local communities, public health, and the environment—and how deeply connected we all are. Every decision, no matter how small, ripples across the globe.
This realization ignited my purpose. In 2008, I dedicated my work to becoming an expert and a guide in sustainability, determined to lead change and empower others to do the same. My mission is to help organizations embed people, planet, profit, and purpose into their strategies and culture—so they not only grow, but grow responsibly, creating a healthier future for all.
Creative and results-driven intellectual
As a strategist, I bridge visionary thinking with practical action—seeing both the big picture and the fine details needed to make change stick. My work combines a deep understanding of business’s role in shaping a sustainable future with hands-on experience driving transformation inside large organizations and as a consultant. By streamlining processes, aligning branding and messaging, and fostering clear communication across all levels of stakeholders, I’ve been able to implement lasting change. Most importantly, I focus on creating champions within organizations—leaders and teams who believe in the mission and carry it forward, ensuring sustainability becomes not just a goal, but a culture.
Research - Modeling Sustainable Futures
Sustainability / ESG
Sustainability / ESG
Sustainability / ESG
Understanding the history and need for these initiatives and the movement that is pushing these economic trends.
Culture
Sustainability / ESG
Sustainability / ESG
Understanding and defining culture in organizations and investigating the elements that create it. How do we holistically align ESG, Sustainability & Corporate Social Responsibility factors into organizations?
Design
Sustainability / ESG
Design
Understanding and defining innovation, design thinking, integrative design thinking, and design strategies. Exploring the role of these in creating cultures to support sustainability goals.