Corporate Governance Officer : Job Description

Corporate Governance Officer

Corporate Governance Jobs ensure Ethical and Responsible Business Practices

Corporate governance jobs, including Corporate governance officer roles focus on ensuring organisations operate responsibly, ethically, and in compliance with internal and external rules. These roles are key to maintaining transparency, managing risk, and supporting strong decision-making frameworks at board and senior management levels.

Among these, Internal Policies Officers play a central role. They develop, implement, and monitor internal policies across areas such as compliance, data protection, ethics, and operational risk. Their work ensures that company practices align with legal obligations, governance standards, and corporate values.

These professionals often collaborate with legal, HR, ESG, and audit teams, acting as the link between governance policy and day-to-day business operations. As regulatory pressure increases, demand for skilled governance talent is growing—especially in highly regulated sectors such as finance, energy, and listed corporations.

Key Responsibilities

1

Establish corporate governance
The primary mission of professionals in corporate governance and internal policies is to establish and maintain effective governance frameworks that guide decision-making, mitigate risks, and promote responsible behavior. They are responsible for designing and implementing policies and procedures that align with regulatory requirements, industry best practices, and the organization’s values. Their role involves ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, managing stakeholder relationships, and fostering a culture of integrity and ethical behavior.

2

Drafting, reviewing, and maintaining internal policies and procedures & ensuring compliance with Internal Controls and Governance
Internal Policies Officers are responsible for writing and updating the organisation’s core policies across areas such as compliance, ethics, risk, and operational conduct. This includes ensuring policies are clearly worded, legally sound, and aligned with corporate objectives and industry standards. Regular reviews are essential to keep procedures relevant and effective. They track how effectively internal controls are being followed across business units. This involves working closely with department heads and compliance teams to ensure the organisation operates within approved frameworks and policies, reducing exposure to legal or reputational risk.

1

Strategy Development

The CSO develops a comprehensive sustainability strategy that aligns with the company’s vision and business objectives. This includes setting goals, defining key performance indicators (KPIs), and establishing a roadmap for sustainable growth.

3

Coordinating with legal, HR, and compliance teams to ensure policy alignment & Keeping governance frameworks updated with changes in laws or industry standards
Internal Policies Officers collaborate with other governance-related functions to ensure policies are consistent, up-to-date, and not duplicative. They help ensure that employment policies, regulatory obligations, and operational procedures are integrated into a coherent governance framework. They monitor changes in regulations, codes of practice, and governance trends, adapting internal frameworks accordingly. This proactive role helps organisations remain compliant and ahead of industry expectations, especially in regulated sectors like finance or energy.

4

Advising departments on the interpretation and application of policies
A key function is acting as an internal advisor. They help various teams understand and correctly apply policies in daily operations, ensuring consistency across the organisation. This includes providing practical guidance on handling sensitive compliance or governance issues.

3

Coordinating with legal, HR, and compliance teams to ensure policy alignment & Keeping governance frameworks updated with changes in laws or industry standards
Internal Policies Officers collaborate with other governance-related functions to ensure policies are consistent, up-to-date, and not duplicative. They help ensure that employment policies, regulatory obligations, and operational procedures are integrated into a coherent governance framework. They monitor changes in regulations, codes of practice, and governance trends, adapting internal frameworks accordingly. This proactive role helps organisations remain compliant and ahead of industry expectations, especially in regulated sectors like finance or energy.

5

Supporting regulatory audits and internal risk assessments
Officers assist in preparing for both internal and external audits by providing documentation, reporting findings, and addressing gaps in existing processes. They contribute to periodic risk assessments, helping the business identify areas of non-compliance or operational weakness.

6

Preparing reports for senior management and board-level review
They compile governance-related data, policy compliance metrics, and risk indicators into reports for senior leaders. These reports inform strategic decisions and demonstrate that the organisation is meeting its legal and ethical obligations.

7

Training staff on policy awareness and ethical business conduct
Internal Policies Officers often lead or support training sessions to raise awareness of policies among staff. This includes onboarding sessions, regular compliance refreshers, and targeted training for higher-risk departments, ensuring everyone understands their responsibilities.

Background and Sectors

Professionals in corporate governance and internal policies come from diverse backgrounds, including law, business, finance, or compliance. They may have specialized certifications such as Certified Corporate Governance Professional (CCGP) or Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional (CCEP), demonstrating their expertise in the field. The role is present across various sectors, including financial services, healthcare, technology, energy, and manufacturing, among others. Regardless of the sector, the focus remains on establishing effective governance frameworks and fostering a culture of ethical conduct.

Ensuring Organisational Compliance and Ethical Practices

Hard Skills

Key hard skills include a deep understanding of corporate governance principles, legal and regulatory frameworks, risk management, and compliance practices. They should have the ability to assess and analyse complex situations, develop policies, and implement effective controls.

Soft Skills

Communication and influencing
Soft skills are equally important, as professionals in this role often interact with stakeholders at various levels of the organisation. Strong communication and influencing skills are essential for effectively communicating policies, driving ethical behavior, and engaging with diverse stakeholders.
Leadership, critical thinking, and problem-solving
Leadership, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills are also crucial for navigating complex governance issues and making sound decisions.

Salary Range

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

Salary ranges for professionals in corporate governance and internal policies vary depending on factors such as experience, region, industry, and the size of the organisation. Here is a general overview of the salary ranges in the mentioned regions:

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

Region

Annual Salary Range

United Kingdom

United States

Europe

Middle East

$60,000 - $100,000

$80,000 - $130,000

$60,000 - $100,000

$70,000 - $120,000

Region

Salary Range (€/$ per year)

United Kingdom

$60,000 - $100,000

United States

$80,000 - $130,000

Europe

$60,000 - $100,000

Middle East

$70,000 - $120,000

Sectors hiring Sustainable Finance Managers

Sustainable Finance Managers are in high demand across various sectors, including:

Financial Services

Banks, asset management firms, and investment funds seeking to integrate ESG principles into their portfolios and offer green financial products.

Corporate Finance

Multinational corporations embedding sustainability into their financial strategies, particularly in sectors such as energy, technology, and consumer goods.

Renewable Energy

Companies involved in clean energy projects seeking sustainable financing options such as green bonds or climate bonds.

Government and Public Sector

Agencies and organizations focused on climate finance, carbon pricing, and the funding of sustainable infrastructure.

Non-Governmental Organizations

Entities involved in impact investing, social finance, and sustainable development projects.

Role Summary

Corporate governance and internal policies are integral components of ethical and responsible business practices. Professionals in this field play a critical role in establishing effective governance frameworks, managing risks, and ensuring compliance with regulations. With the increasing emphasis on transparency, sustainability, and ethical conduct, the demand for skilled corporate governance and internal policies professionals is expected to continue growing. As organisations strive to build trust and maintain stakeholder confidence, these professionals will be at the forefront of driving ethical and responsible business practices in an ever-evolving global landscape.

Browse live Sustainability jobs now and shift your sustainability career for success and impact.

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.
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