Director Sustainable & ESG Finance, London, UK

We are seeking for our client, a dynamic and experienced Director of Sustainable & ESG Finance in London to work alongside the newly appointed Head of Sustainability for the Bank Corporate Markets (BCM) business line. This is a unique opportunity to shape and drive the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) agenda across the businesses in the UK, Germany, the Islands, and the US.

The organisation acknowledge the significant challenges posed by climate change. they take pride in their commitment to leading on sustainability through clear and well-publicised ESG targets within the organisational purpose. As a crucial member of the team, you’ll play an instrumental role in supporting a greener economy, making a material difference by helping to finance a more prosperous, sustainable future.

Job Responsibilities

Strategic Partnerships: Partner with the Capital and Financial Markets product teams and relationship management teams to develop sustainability strategies relevant to individual sectors and clients.
Origination & Execution: Take ownership for the successful origination and execution of opportunities that arise from client and market conversations.
Client Support: Provide clients with strategic insight and commercial solutions to develop their overall ESG / transition strategy, support with framework drafting, external verification, and help clients set, achieve, and maintain ESG ratings.
Risk Management: Identify ESG product-related risks and collaborate with others to formulate and implement controls to maintain products throughout their lifecycle.
Governance Support: Support efforts to ensure effective governance capability, demonstrating the confidence to challenge constructively and work with any local regulators in an open and collaborative manner. Effectively identify, mitigate, and resolve risk, conduct, and compliance matters.
Network Development: Build a strong network of internal partners on ESG across all levels of the organisation to prioritize activity and engage appropriate subject matter experts.
Team Collaboration: Partner with the Sustainability and ESG Finance team to support the delivery of comprehensive sustainability solutions to corporate and institutional clients.
Expertise Development: Develop and maintain expertise in sustainability, staying aware of competitor activity, emerging themes, and regulatory developments. Ensure others’ awareness and understanding too.
Thought Leadership: Develop ESG thought-leadership for BCM by collaborating with colleagues elsewhere in the Banking Group in the creation of marketing materials and pitch-books for BCM products.

Qualifications

Proven Track Record: Demonstrable experience in originating and delivering both traditional and sustainability linked or green financings.
Knowledge of ESG Standards: Profound knowledge of Green & Sustainability Linked Loan Principles, Green Sustainable and Social Bond Principles, UN Sustainable Development Goals, Climate Bonds Initiative, EU Taxonomy, TCFD, and other major ESG Regulations.
Expertise in Key Areas: A proven record in one or more of the following areas:
- Sustainability in the built environment
- Energy markets
- Carbon or energy transition advisory
- ESG ratings or sustainable finance frameworks
- Natural capital
- Social value and social impact
- Legal and regulatory environments
Growth-oriented Approach: A solutions-focused mindset, demonstrated business judgement, and high ethical and professional standards.
Continual Learning: A strong desire for continuous growth and development in your own capabilities, coupled with a willingness to pursue and invest in personal development. Furthermore, you should be committed to supporting the development and capability enhancement of other colleagues and the wider business.

Join our client’s esteemed banking group and be at the forefront of driving sustainable finance practices. If you are a passionate and experienced professional with a strong background in sustainable finance, we encourage you to apply and contribute to a more resilient and sustainable financial sector.

Job Status

Open

Job Type

Permanent

Job Posted

2023/08/10

Salary

£ 150,000

Job Reference

159-2023-H

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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.