Sustainable Finance and Climate Risk Director, Consulting, London, UK

We are partnering with a leading consulting firm specialising in sustainable finance and climate risk advisory services. Our client is seeking a highly experienced and knowledgeable Sustainable Finance and Climate Risk Director to join their team in London. This is a remarkable opportunity to contribute to advancing sustainable finance practices and drive meaningful climate risk management strategies in the UK and globally.​

Job Responsibilities

  • Lead and deliver sustainable finance and climate risk consulting engagements for clients across the financial services sector, including banks, asset managers, and insurance companies.
  • Provide strategic guidance and thought leadership on integrating sustainability factors into financial decision-making, investment strategies, and risk management frameworks.
  • Advise clients on sustainable finance frameworks, regulations, and disclosure requirements, helping them align with global standards such as the EU Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) and Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD).
  • Conduct climate risk assessments and scenario analyses to evaluate the impact of climate change on clients’ portfolios, develop risk mitigation strategies, and enhance resilience.
  • Stay up to date with emerging trends in sustainable finance, climate risk management, and ESG integration, and provide thought leadership to clients and internal teams.
  • Cultivate and maintain strong client relationships, understanding their unique needs, and delivering tailored solutions that drive sustainable finance and climate risk agendas.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance service offerings, develop innovative methodologies, and contribute to the growth and success of the sustainable finance practice.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Finance, Sustainability, Environmental Science). Advanced degree preferred.
  • Extensive experience in sustainable finance, climate risk management, or related fields, preferably within a consulting firm environment.
  • Strong knowledge of sustainable finance frameworks and regulations, such as SFDR, TCFD, and Green Bond Principles.
  • In-depth understanding of climate risk assessment methodologies, scenario analysis, and financial modeling related to climate change impacts.
  • Familiarity with financial services regulations, ESG integration practices, and emerging sustainable finance trends.
  • Excellent project management skills, with a proven track record of delivering high-quality consulting engagements for financial services clients.
  • Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively engage with senior stakeholders and clients.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a data-driven approach to sustainable finance and climate risk analysis.
  • Proven leadership skills, with the ability to mentor and guide junior team members.

 

Join our client’s esteemed consulting firm and be at the forefront of driving sustainable finance and climate risk management practices in the UK and globally. 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

2023/08/04

Salary

£ 130,000

Job Reference

143-2023-H

Confidential

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.