ESG Strategist Job Description

Aligning organisations with sustainable practices

ESG Strategist Job Description

The ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Strategist plays a pivotal role in shaping and implementing the ESG strategy of an organisation. They are responsible for driving sustainable and responsible business practices, identifying ESG risks and opportunities, and ensuring compliance with ESG regulations and reporting requirements. The ESG Strategist works closely with cross-functional teams, senior management, and external stakeholders to integrate ESG considerations into business operations and promote long-term value creation.

Develop and implement the organisation's ESG strategy

Develop and implement the organisation’s ESG strategy, aligning it with corporate goals and industry best practices.

Conduct comprehensive ESG risk assessments

Conduct comprehensive ESG risk assessments and materiality analyses to identify key environmental, social, and governance issues.

Collaborate with internal teams

Collaborate with internal teams to establish clear ESG objectives and metrics to measure progress and performance.

Engage with senior management

Engage with senior management to drive awareness and understanding of ESG principles and their impact on the organisation’s reputation and financial performance.

Ensure compliance with relevant ESG regulations, standards, and reporting frameworks

Ensure compliance with relevant ESG regulations, standards, and reporting frameworks, such as GRI, SASB, and TCFD.

Conduct ESG research and analysis

Conduct ESG research and analysis to identify emerging trends, benchmark against peers, and provide recommendations for continuous improvement.

Collaborate with investors, regulators, and other external stakeholders

Collaborate with investors, regulators, and other external stakeholders to address ESG-related inquiries and provide transparent disclosure of ESG initiatives.​

Support the development of ESG-related communications

Support the development of ESG-related communications, reports, and disclosures for internal and external stakeholders.

Background and Sectors

ESG Strategists often possess a combination of the following qualifications and experiences:
  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field such as sustainability, environmental studies, business, or finance.
  • Professional certifications such as CFA, CSR-P, or sustainability-related certifications are advantageous.
  • Prior experience in ESG strategy, sustainability consulting, corporate social responsibility, or related fields.
  • Knowledge of specific sectors such as finance, energy, technology, consumer goods, or healthcare, with an understanding of sector-specific ESG issues.

Integrating sustainability principles and practices into an organisation's operations

  • Strong understanding of ESG principles, sustainability frameworks, and industry-specific ESG issues.
  • Proficiency in ESG reporting standards and frameworks, such as GRI, SASB, TCFD, and UN SDGs.
  • Experience in conducting ESG risk assessments and materiality analyses.
  • Familiarity with ESG data and information sources, sustainability indices, and ratings agencies.
  • Data analysis and quantitative skills to measure and track ESG performance indicators.
  • Knowledge of relevant ESG regulations, guidelines, and reporting requirements.

Soft Skills

communication and presentation

Excellent communication and presentation skills to effectively convey ESG strategies and initiatives to diverse stakeholders.

leadership and collaboration

Strong leadership and collaboration abilities to work with cross-functional teams and drive change.

Analytical and critical thinking

Analytical and critical thinking skills to identify ESG risks, opportunities, and innovative solutions.

Relationship-building

Relationship-building skills to engage with investors, regulators, and external partners on ESG matters.

Ethical and principled mindset

Ethical and principled mindset with a passion for sustainability and corporate social responsibility.

Salary Range

The salary range for ESG Strategists varies based on experience, location, and organisation size. Here is an approximate salary range in US dollars for different regions:

United Kingdom

$70,000 - $120,000 per year

United States

$80,000 - $150,000 per year

Europe

$70,000 - $120,000 per year

Middle East

$80,000 - $150,000 per year

The salary ranges provided are approximate and can vary significantly based on individual circumstances and market conditions.

Role Summary

As ESG considerations continue to gain prominence in the business world, the role of ESG Strategist becomes increasingly vital. ESG Strategists serve as catalysts for change, driving organisations to embrace sustainability, manage risks, and create long-term value.

Who we are and What we do

We are an exclusive Sustainability and ESG Executive Search and Recruitment Agency, offering both permanent and temporary contracts recruitment solutions, across all sectors. We assist employers find their next great hire in ESG and Sustainability Integration/ Green Energy & CleanTech/ Responsible Investment, Sustainable Finance & Impact Investing.

The Paris Agreement at COP21 identified capacity building as a core challenge our governments, institutions, organisations and civil society need to overcome to build a sustainable world.
Companies need to build business strategies and develop activities to keep growing and create value for their shareholders without exhausting resources or harming future generations. Therefore, engaging in building a decarbonised and equitable economy is at the core of their mission and success in the long term. Their ability to build resilience of human and ecological systems will enable them to navigate this ever-evolving world.
As a recruitment agency, we truly believe, we have a substantial part to play in equipping those thriving businesses with the best candidates to conquer those challenges.
Our purpose is to support businesses in their sustainability journey by connecting them with the best talents in the ESG and Sustainability job market.
We focus to provide tailored solutions to our clients’ needs and enhance candidates’s experience in finding their ideal jobs.

Qualifications and Education: Building Expertise in the Field

In terms of qualifications, academic programs and certifications in sustainability and ESG management have gained prominence. Universities and professional organisations offer courses and certifications that equip individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the field. Additionally, relevant degrees in environmental science, sustainability, business administration, and finance are highly valued by employers.
The ESG and sustainability job market is experiencing significant growth and offers diverse opportunities for professionals. Dedicated roles, as well as the integration of ESG knowledge into traditional job functions, highlight the increasing importance of sustainability in business strategies. Specialized skills, regulatory expertise, and industry knowledge are highly sought after.
​As companies strive to embed ESG practices into their operations, professionals with ESG expertise will continue to play a crucial role in driving positive change and shaping a sustainable future.

Diverse Opportunities: ESG and Sustainability Across Industries

The ESG and sustainability job market is not limited to specific industries. While sectors such as renewable energy, cleantech, and sustainable finance have a well-established presence, organisations across diverse industries are recognizing the need to prioritize ESG and sustainability practices. From manufacturing and retail to technology and healthcare, professionals with ESG expertise are sought after to drive sustainability initiatives and help companies future-proof their operations.

Navigating the Regulatory Landscape: Compliance and Governance Expertise

The increasing regulatory focus on ESG factors has led to a rise in demand for professionals who can navigate the evolving compliance landscape. Knowledge of relevant regulations and frameworks, such as the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), is highly valued. This includes expertise in managing ESG risks, conducting audits and assessments, and implementing sustainable governance structures.

Specialised Skills and Knowledge: Key Areas in High Demand

The ESG and sustainability job market also offers opportunities for specialised skills and knowledge. Professionals with expertise in renewable energy, circular economy, sustainable supply chain management, impact investing, and environmental conservation are in high demand. Additionally, individuals with experience in sustainability reporting frameworks, such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) or Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), are sought after to ensure transparent and standardized reporting.

ESG Expertise in Traditional Job Roles: The Integration of Sustainability Principles

Another emerging trend is the growing importance of ESG expertise in traditional job roles. Professionals in finance, legal, marketing, operations, and human resources are increasingly expected to have a solid understanding of ESG principles and their implications for their respective fields. For example, financial analysts need to assess the financial risks and opportunities associated with ESG factors, while marketing professionals must effectively communicate a company’s sustainability initiatives to consumers.

Dedicated ESG and Sustainability Roles: A Shift Towards Holistic Approaches

One significant trend in the job market is the rise in dedicated ESG and sustainability roles. Previously, these responsibilities were often dispersed across different departments, such as corporate social responsibility, environmental management, or investor relations. However, as companies recognize the need for a holistic approach, they are creating specialised positions such as ESG managers, ESG analysts, and corporate sustainability officers. These roles focus on integrating ESG considerations into business strategies, measuring and reporting on sustainability performance, and engaging with stakeholders.

ESG and Sustainability Job Market Trends

The ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and sustainability integration job market has experienced significant growth and transformation in recent years. As companies worldwide recognize the importance of incorporating ESG principles into their operations, the demand for professionals with expertise in this field has surged. This article will explore the evolving landscape of the ESG and sustainability job market, highlighting key trends and opportunities.
The integration of ESG and sustainability practices into business strategies has become a top priority for organisations across industries. This shift is driven by various factors, including the increasing awareness of climate change, social justice issues, and corporate governance standards. As a result, companies are actively seeking professionals who can navigate the complexities of ESG and sustainability and drive positive change within their organizations.