Top management refers to the executive management of the company. This includes the Managing Director and/or others Directors of an organisation who are responsible for the overall running of the company. A project to implement an EMS needs the authorisation of top management.

If the project is given the go-ahead, top management is responsible for: Establishing the aims and objectives of the EMS Appointing a Management Representative to run the project Providing resources essential to the implementation and control of the EMS. These resources include human resources, specialised skills, technology and financial resources Establishing an environmental policy Ensuring the EMS is implemented