Business Insights Journal interviews Lila Karlsen McNutt of NantBioRenewables on sustainable innovation, AI-driven growth, and purpose-led leadership.
Welcome to Business Insights Journal, Lisa. To start off, can you please walk us through your professional journey and what inspired you to lead initiatives spanning sustainability, technology, and social impact?
My journey has been driven by a passion for creating a sustainable future while leveraging technology for productivity and impact. I began my career in the packaging industry in paperboard and corrugated in agribusiness then expanded into capital equipment and plastics, across a wide range of sectors including CPG, food & beverage, and luxury products. Throughout my career, I witnessed firsthand the environmental challenges we face. This ignited my commitment to sustainability and led me in the pioneering days of sustainability consciousness in 2008 to startup two companies I successfully founded, grew & exited, Greenpac and Green & Giving. Currently as Global Sales & Marketing Director at Nant BioRenewables, I’m driving the adoption of renewable ocean calcium sand based bioplastics under the Wave Ware brand with the goal to eliminate microplastics and their harmful effects to people and the planet, to merge business success with meaningful contributions to the communities we work in and serve.
You’re addressing the global microplastics crisis with patented compostable packaging—can you share more about how this innovation is being implemented for major clients like Marriott and 7-Eleven?
Our innovative compostable packaging is a groundbreaking solution addressing the global microplastics crisis. Major clients are implementing this innovation by integrating it into their supply chains, which not only reduces waste but also enhances their sustainability profiles. Collaborating closely with these brands, we ensure that they meet their environmental goals while providing consumers with eco-friendly options. To learn more visit our website: www.nantbr.com
You’ve successfully integrated AI and blockchain into traditional sales and marketing processes. What challenges did you face in transforming legacy systems, and how did you overcome them?
Transforming legacy systems to incorporate AI into our daily routines was not without challenges. As a packaging professional, I had started using AI for packaging design several years ago. Suddenly in 2025, everyone became aware of AI and became keen to explore using it. Resistance to change and the complexity of existing processes posed significant hurdles. To overcome these, I focused on education and collaboration, ensuring that stakeholders understood the benefits of these technologies. By demonstrating how they could streamline operations, increase productivity and enhance market reach, we facilitated smoother transitions into an AI driven culture.
You’ve led business initiatives across six continents and in multiple languages. How has your multilingual ability helped you build relationships and drive global expansion?
Being multilingual has been invaluable in my career. It has allowed me to build trust and rapport with diverse stakeholders across six continents, facilitating smoother negotiations and partnerships. This cultural understanding fosters deeper connections, which are critical for driving global expansion and achieving impactful results
What does it take to scale sustainability solutions across diverse markets while meeting regional regulations and client expectations?
Scaling sustainability solutions requires a nuanced approach. It’s essential to understand regional regulations and client expectations while remaining adaptable. Developing strong diverse strategic partnerships and continuously engaging with stakeholders helps ensure that our solutions are both effective and compliant.
Purpose isn’t a distraction from performance—it’s the engine that drives it. Build with integrity, lead with empathy, and never underestimate the power of a mission-driven team to change the world.
You’re also deeply involved in social impact work, including rescuing girls from trafficking and supporting orphanages. How do you balance these missions with your business priorities—and how do they influence each other?
For me, there’s no separation between social impact and business strategy—they’re intertwined. Building a business that empowers the scientific community to bring their inventions and intellectual property to market – while dedicating a meaningful share of our profits to our mission – has been deeply rewarding.
Looking at the broader landscape of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), where do you see the most urgent need for innovation right now?
Currently, I see the most urgent need for innovation in sustainable supply chains and climate resilience. As businesses face increasing pressure to address their environmental impact, innovative solutions in these areas will be crucial for long-term sustainability.
What’s one core strategy or principle you personally rely on to navigate complex, high-impact leadership roles?
One core principle I rely on is the power of collaboration. Engaging diverse perspectives fosters innovation and ensures that we’re making informed decisions that benefit all stakeholders. Every one of my team members brings a diverse perspective that benefits the mission, and we are stronger as a team together. Your team is your greatest investment – nurture their growth and well-being, and they’ll drive the success of your business.
What advice would you offer to entrepreneurs or executives looking to build purpose-driven organizations without compromising on performance?
For entrepreneurs and executives looking to build purpose-driven organizations, my advice is to stay true to your values. Prioritize transparency and sustainability, and remember that profitability and purpose can coexist.
Lastly, any final thoughts or lessons learned from your cross-sector journey that you’d like to leave with our readers?
My journey has taught me the art of adaptability, like trimming sails to meet shifting winds. I’m committed to lifelong learning, charting a course toward a tech and AI driven horizon. Navigating success means caring for your crew; when the team is aligned, the voyage is unstoppable. Embrace headwinds as opportunities to grow, stay open to new currents, and always steer toward a positive impact – for people, our oceans & seas, and the plant.
Lila Karlsen McNutt
Global Director of Sales & Marketing at NantBioRenewables
Lila McNutt is a trailblazing global business strategist who’s reshaping industries through the powerful intersection of sustainability, artificial intelligence, and data-driven innovation. As a leader in sustainable packaging solutions, she’s spearheading the transformation of how Fortune 500 companies approach environmental responsibility while driving unprecedented growth. PIONEERING THE FUTURE OF SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS WITH PURPOSE
With expertise spanning agriculture, food & beverage, luxury products, and cosmetics
industries across six continents, Lila has built her reputation as a fearless “hunter” of new
business opportunities and a master relationship builder. Her multilingual abilities in Spanish,
French, and Arabic have opened doors across North America, South America, Europe, the
Middle East, Africa, and Asia, making her a truly global force in business development.
What sets Lila apart is her unique ability to integrate cutting-edge AI and blockchain
technologies into traditional sales and marketing processes, revolutionizing how companies
reach new markets. She’s not just adapting to the future—she’s creating it. From developing
AI-powered packaging designs to building high-performing international teams, Lila
consistently delivers results that matter.
As an entrepreneur at heart and a top individual sales contributor, she’s transformed startups
into industry leaders while helping established corporations navigate complex market
transformations. Her expertise in ESG goals and sustainable packaging solutions positions her
at the forefront of the circular economy movement.
Lila embodies the modern woman in power: innovative, globally-minded, technologically
savvy, and committed to creating positive environmental impact while driving business
success. She’s proof that sustainable practices and profitability aren’t just compatible—they’re
the key to future business leadership.
