We sat down for five minutes with Chetna Chandrasekaran, EI’s Director of Business Development and Marketing (BD/M). Here she tells us about growing a team at EI, celebrating wins and lessons from losses, and making the most of a good estate sale.
How would you describe your role at Environmental Incentives (EI)?
I lead an amazing team that supports the strategic direction and growth of EI. As the Director of BD/M and an executive team member, I get to work across the company to dream big about the kind of impact we want to make. Whether it’s working with clients to advance locally led development or partnering to tackle pressing water issues, I help ensure we pursue exciting opportunities that align with our purpose.
In my role, I focus on making sure we’re proactively positioning EI for new work through high-quality client engagement, targeted marketing, and strategic decisions about which opportunities to pursue. It’s a mix of creativity and strategy, with no two days the same. Some days I’m dreaming up new approaches with my team; other days, I’m navigating tight deadlines or pitching our next big idea. It’s fast-paced, dynamic, and incredibly fulfilling.
What was your dream job growing up?
I actually wanted to be a teacher. I loved the idea of learning, creativity, and bringing fun into the classroom. Looking back, I think I’ve channeled some of that into my current role—teaching, mentoring, and bringing creativity into how we grow EI. On the plus side, I get to use sticky notes and whiteboards during brainstorms, so I still feel like I’m in the classroom sometimes.
What drew you to work at EI?
My background is in public health and business, but I’ve always been most passionate about the intersection of health and the environment. When I found EI, it felt like the perfect blend of both—and the fact that it was a small business sealed the deal. I loved the idea of working somewhere nimble, where decisions could be made quickly, and where I could directly see how my work contributed to the company’s growth and impact.
Chetna in Mt. San Jacinto, Palm Springs.
What is your favorite part about working for EI?
The people. Hands down. I get to work with some of the brightest, most passionate people in the field, and it’s inspiring to see their commitment to the work we do. What motivates me is knowing that I’m helping keep that incredible talent here at EI by supporting the team, making sure we’re growing sustainably, and securing the kinds of projects that excite and challenge our staff.
What is your proudest moment at EI?
There are so many! I’m always proud when we win new work because I know what it means for our team and the impact we’ll have. But if I had to pick one, growing our BD/M team from a one-person operation to a fully functioning team of five has been such a rewarding journey. It’s not just about the growth in numbers, but building a team culture that’s collaborative, creative, and aligned with EI’s purpose. Seeing our collective efforts turn into wins that drive real impact is something I’m incredibly proud of.
What trends do you see emerging in business development or international development?
In business development, I see a growing emphasis on building deeper, more authentic partnerships—whether that’s through localization efforts or engaging non-traditional partners like private sector innovators and community-led organizations. Clients are increasingly prioritizing bids that not only showcase technical expertise but also demonstrate a commitment to collaboration and sustainability. On the international development side, there’s a shift toward integrated, cross-sectoral approaches—where solutions for climate resilience, health, and economic development intersect. It’s exciting to see strategies that are more holistic and systems-oriented rather than siloed.
What are your favorite hobbies?
I’m a sucker for a good estate sale, auction, and vintage store. Finding a way to incorporate the storied pieces in my home makes the space feel uniquely mine, and I like to think they’re living their best secondhand lives at the same time.
Chetna celebrating Holi in DC.
What is one food you can’t live without?
Bread. In any form. Naan, paratha, sourdough, pita, croissants, you name it—I’m a carb enthusiast through and through.
What is your favorite thing to do in DC?
I’m always on the lookout for the next great restaurant (because bread, obviously). DC has such a vibrant food scene, and exploring different restaurants and neighborhoods feels like the best way to get to know the city and all of the culture and creativity it has to offer.
What is your biggest achievement to date?
One of my biggest achievements is being part of EI’s incredible growth—from a small team of 30 people when I joined to now over 130 staff making an impact around the globe. It’s been amazing to see how far we’ve come as a company and to contribute to building the systems, relationships, and culture that support this growth. Personally, it’s been such a privilege to grow alongside EI—developing new skills, facing challenges, and playing a role in shaping the future of an organization that truly inspires me.
Chetna on the Santa Ana Volcano, El Salvador.
Any final thoughts or words of wisdom?
We should all remember to celebrate the wins—big and small—and the losses too. The wins remind us of what’s possible when we work hard and stay aligned with our purpose. The losses, though tough, teach us resilience, humility, and how to adapt. Celebrating it all helps us stay grounded, motivated, and connected to the bigger picture of why we do what we do.
Thanks for chatting with us, Chetna!
