Enabling sustainability through competencies in higher education: the Circular Economy Transition Manager

The transition toward sustainability requires not only ambitious policies and strategies, but also professionals capable of translating sustainability objectives into concrete organizational practices. This paper examines the role of higher education in addressing competence gaps generated by transformations of work in the transition toward a circular economy. Focusing on hybrid professional roles operating across strategic, organizational, and operational levels, the analysis considers the CETM as an illustrative case within the furniture sector. Through the development and validation of a competency framework, using an ongoing European initiative as an observational context, the study shows how universities can translate emerging transition needs into structured learning pathways. The findings highlight the role of higher education as an enabling infrastructure for sustainability transitions, supporting the consolidation of new professional roles and contributing to the objectives of SDG 4 (Quality Education).