George Basile
George Basile is a scientist who has become an advisor to some of today’s most influential decision makers. For over a decade George has worked with leaders through very complex situations demanding clarity and effective action. The shift came with a focus on the most challenging issues of our time: environmental and social sustainability. This led to co-developing a new field of research in emerging technology and sustainability at UC Berkeley.
It then led to the Natural Step International, an international research and consulting think tank focused on strategic sustainability. There, as Executive Vice President and Chief Scientist, George led the creation and implementation of strategic frameworks and tools. During this time the organization won both Gorbachev’s Green Cross Award for Global Leadership and the Blue Planet Prize.
Dr. Basile applies the multi-disciplinary nature of his experience to add value in all aspects of strategic and operational planning and implementation. He has led the development of proactive strategy with senior executives at both Fortune 100 and start-up companies, with non-profit organizations and community leaders. Past corporate clients include the Home Depot, Nike, Bank of America, McDonalds, IDEO, Verdant Power and ICI Paints. He is now an advisor, author, and speaker and the founder of Thrive Unlimited, a consultancy and project development organization.
George has served on the faculty of Stanford University and was a Specialist at UC Berkeley in the health effects of emerging technology. He has served as the head of business development and strategy at a successful biotechnology start-up. He serves on a number of business and non-profit Boards, such as Verdant Power, Inc. and the Center for the Development of Social Finance. His research on global issues, strategic decision making, and taking effective action has been published for technical and general audiences. He is the co-author of the text book Strategic Leadership towards Sustainability, which forms the core curriculum for an international Masters Degree program at Blekinge University of Technology in Sweden. He holds a bachelor’s of science degree in Physics from UC Irvine and a Ph.D. in Biophysics from UC Berkeley.