ESG Director, Real Estate, Dubai, UAE

Our client, a prominent real estate firm based in Dubai, is seeking a strategic and experienced ESG Director to lead their sustainability and ESG initiatives. Join our client in shaping the future of sustainable real estate practices in the Middle East and positively impacting the environment and communities.

Job Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement the company’s ESG strategy, ensuring alignment with global sustainability frameworks and industry best practices.
  • Lead the integration of sustainability and ESG principles into the real estate development process, from planning and design to construction and operations.
  • Identify and assess ESG risks and opportunities across the organisation’s portfolio of properties and develop robust mitigation plans to enhance sustainability performance.
  • Oversee sustainability reporting efforts, ensuring accurate and transparent communication of ESG performance to stakeholders, including investors, tenants, and regulatory bodies.
  • Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to drive innovation, implement green building certifications, and enhance sustainability practices within the organisation.
  • Stay current with emerging trends, regulations, and technologies in sustainable real estate and provide strategic guidance on adopting new sustainable initiatives.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Sustainability, Environmental Science, Real Estate) is required; an advanced degree preferred.
  • Proven experience in leading sustainability or ESG initiatives within the real estate industry.
  • Strong knowledge of global sustainability frameworks (e.g., GRESB, LEED, WELL) and relevant ESG metrics and reporting standards.
  • Familiarity with local sustainability regulations and practices in the Dubai real estate market is highly desirable.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to engage with investors, tenants, and other key stakeholders.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and execute sustainability strategies, drive change, and deliver measurable results.
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to identify and evaluate ESG risks and opportunities within a real estate context.
  • Passion for sustainability and a genuine commitment to driving positive environmental and social impact.
Join our client’s dedicated team and lead their sustainable real estate agenda in n the Middle East. If you are a dynamic and strategic sustainability leader with a strong background in real estate, we invite you to apply and contribute to creating a more sustainable and resilient built environment.

Job Status

Open

Job Type

Permanent

Job Posted

2023/01/08

Salary

AED 440,000

Job Reference

133-2023-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.