Sustainability is no longer a “nice to have” – it’s becoming essential for UK businesses, whether due to regulation, investor pressure, or simply staying competitive. But let’s be honest: not every business has the budget to build a dedicated team of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) experts overnight.
So how do you start building a credible sustainability team without draining your budget faster than your office kettle?
1. Start With What You’ve Got
Many businesses already have untapped sustainability champions in-house. Think operations managers who are obsessed with efficiency, HR leads with a passion for wellbeing, or finance professionals who care about long-term impact. Upskilling your current staff with short courses like the IEMA Foundation Certificate or online options through FutureLearn can lay the groundwork at a fraction of the cost of hiring new heads.
2. Hire for Mindset Over Mastery
Not every role in a sustainability team needs a decade of experience in carbon accounting. When hiring, look for candidates who understand your industry and have a genuine passion for sustainability. Roles like Sustainability Coordinator or ESG Analyst can often be entry-level or cross-functional, especially with the growing pool of professionals switching into green careers.
Tip: Consider flexible roles – even part-time or freelance support – to test the waters.
3. Use External Expertise Strategically
Bringing in a consultant can feel like a luxury, but targeted short-term support can actually be cost-effective. A seasoned sustainability consultant can help you set a roadmap, advise on compliance (hello, SECR and TCFD!), and recommend tech solutions – without the long-term cost of a full-time hire.
4. Collaborate Across Your Supply Chain
You don’t have to do it alone. Engage suppliers, clients, and industry peers to co-create sustainability initiatives. Group workshops, joint carbon audits, or shared reporting tools can lighten the load – and the cost.
5. Tap into Grants and Free Tools
Did you know that many local councils and enterprise partnerships offer sustainability grants and advice? Check with your local Growth Hub, or explore tools like the Carbon Trust SME Guide for practical support.
Final Thought
Building a sustainability team doesn’t mean hiring a battalion of experts on day one. With smart planning, creative hiring, and a dose of collaboration, UK businesses of all sizes can take meaningful climate action – without needing a Silicon Roundabout-sized budget.
Need Support with Hiring for Sustainability Roles?
Whether you’re hiring your first ESG Coordinator or building out a net zero strategy team, ESG REC can help.
Email us at info@esgrec.com or visit www.esgrec.comto learn more.
