Transitions

By Michelle Dyer,  Chief Operating Officer, Second Nature

(This article appears in the October, 2010 issue of The ACUPCC Implementer)

After the ACUPCC Climate Leadership Summit in Denver I will be stepping out of my role as Chief Operating Officer of Second Nature, to join Intersection Partners, a private equity investment firm that builds sustainable businesses, as Principal.  I joined Second Nature to support Tony Cortese and the Second Nature team through a time of significant growth and to build the organizational capacity to advance its mission.  With the excellent team now have in place, and the phenomenal success of the ACUPCC and the Advancing Green Building in Higher Education Initiative, the time has come for me to move forward.

This opportunity came quite unexpectedly as I was conducting early research into potential next steps in my career path.  I knew it would be rare to find an investment company with the supportive atmosphere and committed team I have enjoyed during my tenure at Second Nature, not to mention difficult to make a transition given the current state of the economy.  I was blessed to connect with my new partners, who understand sustainability deeply and feel a vocation to create meaningful, positive businesses.

I deeply appreciate the experience I have had at Second Nature.  The relationships I have gained, the meaningful work in which I have been engaged, and the mentorship I have received has been incredible.  I thank Tony for his faith in me and for providing me with the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally.  In addition, I am humbled and moved by the work into which you all have stepped.  The transition to a sustainable society and economy is an immense challenge, and your leadership will be remembered for generations to come.  I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to work with such inspired and committed people, and hope our paths will cross in the future.