ESG Analyst Job Description

A Vital Role for Sustainable Development

In today’s rapidly evolving corporate landscape, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations have become integral to business strategies worldwide. As sustainability gains prominence, the demand for ESG Analysts has surged. Below, we delve into the crucial role of ESG Analysts, outlining their responsibilities, required skills, preferred backgrounds, sectors of origin, and salary ranges across the UK, US, Europe, and the Middle East.

Conduct comprehensive ESG research and analysis

Conduct comprehensive ESG research and analysis, evaluating a company’s performance against industry-specific criteria and standards.

Identify key ESG risks, opportunities, and trends

Identify key ESG risks, opportunities, and trends, providing insights to support strategic decision-making and risk mitigation.

Collaborate with stakeholders

Collaborate with stakeholders to develop and implement ESG strategies, policies, and initiatives that align with sustainability objectives.

Monitor and measure ESG performance indicators

Monitor and measure ESG performance indicators, track progress, and produce regular reports to communicate findings to internal and external stakeholders.

Stay updated on evolving ESG regulations, industry best practices, and emerging sustainability trends

Stay updated on evolving ESG regulations, industry best practices, and emerging sustainability trends, incorporating them into organisational strategies.

Background and Sectors

ESG Analysts typically possess educational backgrounds in fields such as finance, economics, environmental sciences, sustainability, or related disciplines. While a bachelor’s degree is usually required, some organisations may prefer candidates with advanced degrees, such as a Master’s in Sustainable Development or an MBA with a sustainability focus.
Candidates with experience in financial analysis, investment management, sustainability consulting, corporate social responsibility, or ESG research find themselves well-suited for ESG Analyst roles.
Sectors of origin for ESG Analysts can vary, but they often come from finance, asset management, consulting firms, sustainability-focused organisations, or corporate ESG departments.

Driving Sustainable Impact in Global Markets

  • Proficiency in ESG frameworks, such as Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).
  • Strong data analysis and quantitative skills, with expertise in data manipulation, interpretation, and visualization.
  • Familiarity with ESG rating methodologies, tools, and databases, including Bloomberg ESG, MSCI ESG, and Sustainalytics.
  • Knowledge of relevant ESG regulations and reporting requirements, such as the EU Non-Financial Reporting Directive and the UK Modern Slavery Act.
  • Ability to conduct stakeholder engagement and materiality assessments to identify key ESG issues.
  • Proficient in sustainability reporting standards, such as Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and Integrated Reporting (IR).
  • Experience in conducting ESG due diligence for mergers, acquisitions, and investments.

Soft Skills

Excellent analytical and critical thinking abilities

Excellent analytical and critical thinking abilities, with a keen eye for detail.

Strong written and verbal communication

Strong written and verbal communication skills to effectively convey complex ESG concepts and findings to diverse stakeholders.

Collaborative mindset

Collaborative mindset with the ability to work cross-functionally and engage with various departments.

Adaptability and willingness

Adaptability and willingness to keep pace with evolving ESG regulations, standards, and industry trends.

Ethical awareness and commitment

Ethical awareness and commitment to sustainability values.

Strong project management and organisational

Strong project management and organisational skills to meet reporting deadlines and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

Salary Range

The salary range for ESG Analysts can vary across regions. The figures provided below are approximate salary ranges based on market insights:

United Kingdom

$50,000 - $80,000

United States

$60,000 - $100,000

Europe

$50,000 - $90,000

Middle East

$40,000 - $80,000

Role Summary

ESG Analysts are at the forefront of driving sustainable business practices, combining financial acumen, analytical skills, and a passion for responsible investing. Their expertise contributes to enhancing ESG performance, shaping corporate strategies, and promoting a more sustainable and inclusive future.
As organisations increasingly prioritize ESG considerations, the role of ESG Analysts becomes ever more critical in ensuring transparent reporting, identifying risks, and uncovering opportunities for sustainable growth.
By championing sustainability and fostering ethical practices, ESG Analysts play an integral role in transforming businesses into responsible, long-term stewards of our environment and society.

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.