Meet the team: Chief Sustainability Officer at Saab Surveillance

Get to know Carla Lif, Chief Sustainability Officer at Saab Surveillance, as she shares insights into her unique background, passion for sustainability, and the impact Saab is making on society and the environment. Discover how her journey and vision are driving Saab’s sustainability initiatives forward in our latest blog.

What do you do at Saab?

I’m responsible for implementing and driving Saab’s and Surveillance’s sustainability strategy, ensuring it becomes an integral part of our ways of working.

Tell us a bit about your background and how it helps you in your new role at Saab?

I’ve held a variety of roles with several Swedish international companies since immigrating from the U.S. to Sweden as a young adult. I started out in science education and have taught high school in both countries. Additionally, I hold a degree in geology and sometimes joke that I may be the only geologist at Saab, though I don’t have proof of that claim! Alongside that, I’ve complemented my education with a degree in sustainable enterprise. Although this is my first full-time role in sustainability, I have more than a decade of experience in contaminated land management and due diligence, as well as over 6 years in occupational health, safety, and environmental management. I’ve worked as both a specialist and a leader, which has provided me with a broad, international perspective—something I find valuable at Saab. It’s natural for me to view things from different angles, and my experience in connecting people across boundaries helps facilitate change and tackle complex challenges with my colleagues.

What inspired you to join Saab, and what has your experience been so far?

I’m deeply passionate about our company’s purpose of keeping people and society safe. Growing up in the U.S. during the Cold War and working in personal safety over the years have strengthened this passion. I see a clear connection between our sustainability goals and this company mission, which gives my work meaning—a crucial factor for me throughout my career.

How does Saab contribute to sustainability today, and how does the company aim to play an even bigger role?

Our company purpose is the backbone of our sustainability strategy. Saab contributes to keeping societies safe not just through our cutting-edge equipment and services but also through our efforts in human rights, like responsible sales, and maintaining a responsible supply chain. We also prioritize protecting our employees’ health and well-being. Sustainability extends beyond environmental issues, but minimizing our environmental impact is a core focus—whether through using fewer resources, reducing harmful chemicals, or cutting carbon emissions. Saab’s ambition to be a leader in sustainability within our industry is a significant responsibility, but it also presents enormous business opportunities. By innovating sustainable solutions, we can positively influence the industry while fulfilling our purpose.

What makes Saab a standout employer?

Our growth trajectory is an obvious reason, but I am particularly impressed by the company’s values, which I see reflected daily in the way colleagues treat each other—with respect and a shared commitment to finding the best solutions for our customers. I’d say the company’s collective mindset is transforming, becoming one where it's okay to try and fail as long as we learn from those failures. This creates a thriving workplace filled with fresh ideas and a strong sense of psychological safety.

Read more about how sustainability is an integrated part of Saab's strategy: https://www.saab.com/sustainability