Climate and ESG Governance Lead/Director, Banking, London, UK

Our client, a large banking institution renowned for its commitment to sustainability and responsible investment practices, seeks a highly skilled and experienced professional to take on the role of Climate and ESG Governance Lead. This is a key Director level position, primarily responsible for guiding UK Boards and management teams in defining and delivering their climate and ESG agendas. The role is pivotal in ensuring our business operations and client considerations align with ever-evolving regulatory requirements, particularly concerning the climate risk implementation agenda for the UK.

Job Responsibilities

Climate and ESG Strategy: Lead the development and execution of climate and ESG strategies across our UK entities, ensuring alignment with global objectives and compliance with local and international regulations.
Regulatory Alignment: Keep abreast of evolving regulatory requirements, translating them into actionable plans for our UK entities and ensuring compliance with these standards.
Risk Management: Identify and manage potential climate and ESG risks, developing robust risk mitigation strategies and response plans.
Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with various business functions to embed climate and ESG considerations into all aspects of our operations, driving business transformation towards sustainable practices.
Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with internal and external stakeholders, promoting transparency and fostering strong relationships based on trust and mutual understanding.
Reporting: Oversee the production of regular reports on the progress of climate and ESG initiatives for the UK Boards, management, and external stakeholders.

Qualifications

Strong Leadership Skills: Proven ability to lead teams and drive cross-enterprise projects/programmes to successful completion.
Stakeholder Management: Demonstrated proficiency in managing stakeholders at various levels within and outside the organisation.
Team Player: Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to develop meaningful relationships across different functions.
Data Management: Ability to collaborate with Climate Risk, ESG/ Sustainability, Operations&Technology, Risk and Banking partners to adapt data to UK legal entity needs, particularly in conducting loan portfolio screening.
Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze data and interpret evolving regulatory frameworks.
Intellectual Curiosity: Keen interest in understanding and staying updated with developments in the field of climate risk.
Excellent Communication Skills: Ability to articulate complex concepts clearly, both orally and in writing. Proficiency in facilitating discussions and writing reports.
Self-Starter: Ability to independently navigate the organisation, with guidance from senior leadership, and take ownership of various aspects of projects or initiatives.
Energy and Enthusiasm: Passionate about climate risk and ESG, and eager to make a positive impact.
Networking Skills: Ability to connect and collaborate with climate risk peers both within the organisation (GPA, front line teams, etc.) and externally.
Time Management Skills: Proven ability to prioritize tasks, juggle multiple responsibilities at once, and work under tight deadlines.
Problem-Solving Skills: Exceptional ability to identify challenges, seek out answers, and develop innovative solutions.
Technical Proficiency: Ability to understand technical implications of system design and quickly master new concepts and requirements.

The ideal candidate for this role is a highly motivated and enthusiastic individual, who is not afraid to challenge processes and is committed to driving the company’s climate and ESG initiatives forward. If you have a strong affinity with the topic and are ready to make a significant impact, we encourage you to apply.

Job Status

Open

Job Type

Permanent

Job Posted

2023/08/10

Salary

£ 140,000

Job Reference

158-2023-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

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.