Head of Sustainability, Banking, Dubai, UAE

We have established a strategic partnership with a prestigious UAE-based bank. Together, we are embarking on a mission to find an exceptional Head of Sustainability, someone with a dynamic approach and a wealth of experience, to spearhead our client’s sustainability initiatives and champion ethical business practices.

Job Responsibilities

As the Head of Sustainability, you will be a key driver of the client’s sustainability initiatives, ensuring that sustainability principles are embedded throughout the business. You will lead a talented team of 4 people and collaborate with various stakeholders to implement and enhance the bank’s sustainability strategy. Your key responsibilities are:

Sustainability Strategy: Develop, lead, and implement a comprehensive sustainability strategy aligned with the business objectives and international best practices.
Stakeholder Engagement: Build and nurture relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including clients, regulators, and industry partners, to advance sustainability efforts.
Reporting and Compliance: Oversee sustainability reporting and ensure compliance with global sustainability frameworks and disclosure standards.
Risk Assessment: Identify and assess ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) risks and opportunities, providing insights and recommendations to the executive team.
Team Leadership: Lead and mentor the sustainability team, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence.
Integration: Drive the integration of sustainability principles into investment decision-making, risk management, and product development.
Market Research: Stay informed about emerging sustainability trends, regulations, and industry developments, advising on their implications for the institution.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in finance, sustainability, business, or related fields (Master’s degree preferred).
Extensive experience in sustainability leadership roles within the financial sector.
Strong understanding of global sustainability frameworks (e.g., UN Principles for Responsible Banking, TCFD, GRI).
Proven track record in sustainability strategy development and execution.
Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
Analytical mindset with the ability to assess and manage ESG risks and opportunities.
Passion for sustainability and a commitment to driving positive change in the financial industry.
Fluency in English is required; proficiency in Arabic is preferred.

If you are an experienced sustainability leader with a strong financial background and are eager to lead transformative sustainability efforts within a respected financial institution, we encourage you to apply.

Job Status

Open

Job Type

Permanent

Job Posted

2023/11/29

Salary

AED 450,000

Job Reference

176-2023-H

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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

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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

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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.