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Sustainability Director Jobs – Role Description

what does a Sustainability Director do?

Sustainability Director jobs are on the rise.  This function is responsible for overseeing an organisation’s sustainability strategy and ensuring that the company’s operations align with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. This leadership role involves coordinating cross-functional teams to develop, implement, and monitor initiatives that reduce environmental impact, promote social responsibility, and drive long-term sustainability goals. The Sustainability Director will also play a key role in communicating the company’s sustainability performance to stakeholders, including investors, regulators, and customers, while ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.

Key Responsibilities of a Sustainability Director

Strategic Leadership

Develop and lead the organisation’s sustainability strategy, ensuring it aligns with broader business goals and long-term objectives.

Sustainability Programs

Design and implement programs that address key areas such as carbon reduction, energy efficiency, waste management, and sustainable supply chain practices.

ESG Compliance

Ensure the company’s practices comply with current ESG regulations and reporting standards, such as GRI, CDP, and TCFD frameworks.

Stakeholder Engagement

Work closely with internal teams, including legal, finance, HR, and operations, to integrate sustainability across departments. Act as the main point of contact for external stakeholders, including regulators, investors, and NGOs.

Data and Reporting

Oversee the collection, analysis, and reporting of sustainability data. Prepare annual sustainability reports, ensuring accurate, transparent, and compliant disclosures.

Innovation and Trends

Keep the organization ahead of trends in sustainability and ESG practices, identifying new opportunities for sustainable growth and innovation.

Education and Advocacy

Promote a culture of sustainability within the organisation, providing training and resources for employees and advocating for sustainable practices across the supply chain.

Background and Sectors

  • Education: A bachelor’s degree in environmental science, sustainability, business administration, or a related field is typically required. Advanced degrees (e.g., a Master’s in Sustainability or MBA with a focus on ESG) are highly valued.
  • Experience: A minimum of 7-10 years of experience in sustainability management, ESG strategy, or related fields. Leadership experience within a corporate setting, preferably in sectors like energy, manufacturing, finance, or technology, is crucial.
  • Certifications: Professional certifications, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), CSR certifications, or specialized courses in ESG reporting, are often preferred.

Designing and Overseeing the Organization's Sustainability Strategy

Hard Skills

  • Sustainability Strategy Development: Experience in developing and executing sustainability strategies that align with corporate goals and comply with ESG regulations.
  • ESG Reporting: Proficiency in sustainability reporting standards, such as GRI, SASB, TCFD, and CDP. Ability to ensure transparency and accuracy in environmental and social impact reporting.
  • Carbon Accounting: Expertise in tracking, analyzing, and reducing carbon footprints across operations and supply chains.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Strong knowledge of environmental regulations and sustainability frameworks, including SFDR, Greenhouse Gas Protocol, and environmental laws specific to the industry or region.
  • Data Analytics: Ability to analyze large datasets, generate insights from sustainability metrics, and use them to inform strategic decisions.
  • Financial Acumen: Understanding of how sustainability initiatives impact financial performance, experience in managing sustainability budgets, and navigating green finance tools (e.g., green bonds, ESG-linked investments).

Soft Skills

Leadership

Proven ability to inspire and lead teams across functions, driving collaboration and accountability in sustainability initiatives.

Communication

Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with both internal and external stakeholders, including senior leadership, regulators, and the public.

Problem Solving

Excellent analytical and strategic problem-solving abilities to address complex environmental challenges and develop innovative, actionable solutions.

Adaptability

Flexibility to navigate evolving sustainability regulations, technologies, and business landscapes.

Collaboration

Demonstrated success in working across departments and building relationships with stakeholders at all levels.

Project Management

Strong project management skills, with the ability to plan, execute, and monitor large-scale sustainability initiatives.

Salary Range

The salary range for a Director of Sustainability varies depending on the size of the company, location, and industry, but typically falls within:

United Kingdom

£110,000 - £180,000 per year

United States

$140,000 - $220,000 per year

Europe

€120,000 - €200,000 per year

Middle East

$150,000 - $250,000 per year

Asia

$120,000 - $200,000 per year

Higher salaries are often found in sectors such as finance, renewable energy, and large multinational corporations.

Role Summary

As organisations embed sustainability deeper into their core operations, the role of the Sustainability Director has become central to driving progress. Sustainability Directors lead the development and implementation of environmental and social strategies, aligning business practices with ESG goals and regulatory requirements. They play a key role in setting measurable targets, managing cross-functional initiatives, and engaging stakeholders across the business. This role demands strong technical knowledge, strategic leadership, and the ability to translate complex sustainability issues into actionable business solutions that deliver long-term value.

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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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