Driving Impact at GM: A Conversation with GM’s New CSO Cassandra Garber

The automotive industry is shifting gears fast, accelerating EV adoption, navigating new trade and supply landscapes, and global disruptions.

To get an inside look at how the automobile industry is approaching this transformation, I spoke with Cassandra Garber, the newly appointed Chief Sustainability Officer at General Motors. Formerly the CSO at Dell, Cassandra brings a cross-sector perspective and deep passion for making sustainability a growth engine. 

This conversation is the latest installment in our “Deep Dive” series for ESG & Climate News subscribers. I hope you find my conversation with Cassandra as insightful as I did.

1. You’re stepping into a high-profile role at GM from another at Dell at a moment when the sustainability field is very volatile. What drew you to this role, and what does leadership in sustainability mean to you at this time?

Cassandra: So many things drew me into this role. I grew up in a family with a deep passion for cars. My grandfather owned a radiator shop, my dad was an enthusiastic “car guy” and my husband worked as a service advisor. Even today, we continue to take road trips as a family, creating memories in every corner of the U.S. Vehicles are so much more than transportation – they're where life happens.

GM’s vision of zero crashes, zero emissions, and zero congestion really spoke to me. From our first conversations, I could see this role would give me the opportunity to work with experts dedicated to making progress and advancing a more sustainable future. Every person I’ve met has been smart, kind, committed, authentic, and proud of the company they work for. 

The cherry on top is the cars. We’re now the #2 EV company in the U.S., thanks to the dozen EV models we offer across the Chevrolet, Cadillac, GMC Hummer and Buick brands. And oh my gosh, I love our vehicles! You need to experience GM’s incredible advancements in design and technology. Do you know how cool I am to my family and friends now?

2. You’ve long championed the idea that “sustainable business is smart business.” How do you plan to continue to make the case for sustainability as a core business driver across GM? And how do you think companies in general can make the business case for sustainability?

Cassandra: I remain as committed as ever to that idea. Sustainability leadership means driving growth, reducing risk and helping create a better future for everyone. 

When environmental and social considerations are truly part of business decisions and strategy, the impact is real and long-lasting. I’ve witnessed the change in people’s lives when it is done well – beyond the business benefits, people take pride in what they’re doing for future generations. Looking at people in the local communities whose lives (or family trees) have been meaningfully changed by the company’s positive impact makes you want to do everything you can to make both business and lives better.

3. GM already has a strong sustainability legacy and has really embraced EVs. What are you doubling down on, and what new priorities are emerging under your leadership?

Cassandra: GM’s vision is what the world needs: Zero crashes. Zero emissions. Zero congestion. Sustainability is built right in and this vision is worthy of every team member’s dedication. The zero emissions piece of it is a big driver of our sustainability strategy, and I can feel the transformation and enthusiasm in the company. 

The next phase of sustainability is exciting. With so much already in place, we can reach new milestones (yes, I now make endless driving references). We’re advancing our work in renewable energy and zero waste because they’re good for business and the communities. But that’s not all – you'll just have to wait and see what else we’re up to.

4. You’ve already spotlighted the circular economy as a key focus. What does circularity look like in GM’s future—and how do you see this transforming product design, sourcing, and customer experience?

Cassandra: A circular economy helps address the limitations of the linear economy – GM has long collaborated with suppliers to develop textiles from recycled plastic bottles, recovered fishing nets, plant-based fibers and more. The Cadillac Vistiq and Optiq both feature beautifully patterned fabric woven from yarn made by recycled materials. And our CarBravo platform for pre-owned vehicles helps extend their use phase. 

We’re continuing to pursue circular manufacturing processes, sustainable materials in our products and partnerships to address systemic opportunities for supply chains. A good example is our membership in the ‘First Movers Coalition’ to work toward lower emissions steel, aluminum and concrete.  GM also launched a new remanufacturing facility aimed at extending vehicle and battery life cycles while reducing ownership costs. 

With thoughtful design from the start, responsible practices throughout the vehicle’s lifecycle and infusing bold ambition, we’re working to build a future where customers and the environment can thrive together – creating lasting value for generations to come.

5. How are you balancing the need for supply chain resilience with GM’s long-term sustainability goals?

Cassandra: Supply chain resilience and GM’s long-term sustainability goals aren’t in conflict – they’re well-aligned. Innovation in sustainable materials, circular design and products that rely on renewable sources are critical to resilience. The EV economy GM is helping to build is an innovation and job creation machine – driven by sustainable business practices. We have created thousands of EV supply chain jobs in Ohio, Tennessee, and Michigan, with more growth in Louisiana, Texas, and Nevada. Challenges exist, and innovation takes time, but it helps to be clear on the outcome – a resilient business with a positive impact. 

6. Is there anything we haven’t covered that you’d like to highlight? Perhaps a program or product you’re especially excited about—or a reason for optimism as we look ahead?

Cassandra: Yes! Two GM vehicles get me especially excited: the Chevy Equinox EV and the Cadillac Escalade IQ. The Equinox is affordable (starting under $35,000) and impresses people with its design, range, and capabilities. It’s bringing more people into EVs – whether for cost, ease of maintenance, reducing trips to the gas station, environmental considerations or interest in tech and innovation. 

The Escalade IQ is just plain gorgeous. It’s this big, electric SUV with 460 miles of range, perfect for families with luxurious tastes. We’re learning from its design, capabilities, and what people love about it – and we’ll continue to learn and bring new ideas and exciting experiences to our customers. That’s fun, cool, meaningful and it's just plain good business. That gives me all kinds of optimism!