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Head of Corporate Social Responsibility Job Description

Aligning with the organisation's values, mission, and stakeholders' expectations

Head of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) or Corporate Social Responsibility Manager is a critical leadership role that focuses on developing and implementing sustainable strategies and initiatives within an organisation. The primary mission of this role is to drive positive social and environmental impact, while aligning business practices with the principles of sustainability and corporate citizenship.

Strategy Development

Lead the development and execution of the organisation’s CSR strategy, ensuring alignment with business goals and industry best practices. Identify areas where the company can make a meaningful impact and drive positive change.

Stakeholder Engagement

Engage with internal and external stakeholders, including employees, customers, investors, NGOs, and government agencies, to build collaborative partnerships and drive CSR initiatives. Cultivate strong relationships and ensure effective communication to maximize impact.

Sustainability Reporting

Oversee the development and management of sustainability reports, ensuring accurate measurement and transparent reporting of the organisation’s CSR efforts. Provide regular updates on key performance indicators and progress towards sustainability goals.

Policy Development

Stay abreast of evolving CSR trends, regulations, and industry standards to ensure compliance and proactively identify opportunities for improvement. Develop and implement CSR policies and programs that align with local and international frameworks.

Employee Engagement

Foster a culture of sustainability and social responsibility within the organisation. Develop employee engagement programs, promote awareness and education, and encourage employee participation in CSR activities.

Background and Sectors

The Head of CSR or CSR Manager typically holds a bachelor’s or master’s degree in fields such as sustainability, environmental management, business administration, or related disciplines. Relevant professional certifications (e.g., CSR, sustainability reporting) are beneficial.
This role is prominent in various sectors, including but not limited to:
  • Corporate: Large corporations across industries such as energy, manufacturing, technology, retail, and finance.
  • Non-profit and NGO: International organisations and non-profits focusing on sustainable development and social impact.
  • Government and Public Sector: Government agencies driving sustainability initiatives and policy development.

Developing and executing a comprehensive CSR strategy

  • Sustainability Expertise: In-depth knowledge of sustainability principles, frameworks (such as GRI, SASB, or SDGs), and industry best practices. Proficiency in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) metrics and reporting.
  • Stakeholder Management: Strong ability to engage and manage relationships with diverse stakeholders, including internal teams, external partners, and community organisations. Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
  • Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and execute long-term CSR strategies that align with business objectives and create sustainable value. Analytical skills to assess the impact of CSR initiatives and identify areas for improvement.

Soft Skills

Leadership

Strong leadership and management skills to drive cross-functional teams and inspire others towards a shared vision of sustainability. Ability to influence and gain buy-in from stakeholders at all levels of the organisation.

Collaboration and Relationship Building

Effective collaboration skills to work across departments, engage external partners, and build strong relationships with stakeholders. Strong networking and partnership development skills.

Salary Range

Salary ranges can vary significantly based on factors such as company size, industry, location, and candidate experience. Here’s an approximate salary range per annum in USD for the mentioned regions:

United Kingdom

$80,000 - $150,000

United States

$90,000 - $170,000

Europe

$80,000 - $140,000

Middle East

$100,000 - $180,000

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

Role Summary

The Head of Corporate Social Responsibility plays a pivotal role in shaping an organisation’s sustainability journey, driving positive impact, and building a responsible and purpose-driven brand. With a strong blend of technical expertise, leadership abilities, and stakeholder engagement skills, they have the opportunity to make a significant difference in addressing societal and environmental challenges while enhancing long-term business success.

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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.