As ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) continues to shape business strategy, regulation, and reputation, demand for skilled professionals in this space is growing rapidly across the UK.
Whether you’re a recent graduate, a career switcher, or an experienced professional looking to transition, this beginner’s guide will help you understand the fundamentals of ESG and how to position yourself for a career in sustainability and responsible business.
Scroll through the slides below to explore key ESG concepts, job types, essential skills, and practical steps to start your journey.
For ESG jobs and career advice, visit www.esgrec.com
ESG Basics: A Beginner’s Guide to Starting Your ESG Career
Learn what ESG means and how to begin a career in this fast-growing, high-impact sector.
What Is ESG?
ESG stands for Environmental, Social and Governance—three pillars that help organisations measure non-financial performance.
- Environmental: Climate impact, energy efficiency, waste and resource use
- Social: Diversity and inclusion, employee wellbeing, supply chain ethics
- Governance: Board accountability, transparency, ethical business practices
These factors are increasingly used by UK employers, investors and regulators to assess long-term risk and value.
Why ESG Careers Matter in 2025
Sustainability careers are becoming mainstream as companies face greater scrutiny and new reporting obligations.
- Global frameworks like ISSB and CSRD are setting new expectations for ESG disclosure.
- Employers across industries—from finance and tech to retail and manufacturing—are seeking professionals with ESG awareness.
- A career in ESG offers purpose, long-term relevance, and the chance to make a meaningful impact.
Explore ESG job opportunities and insights at www.esgrec.com
What Types of ESG Jobs Are Available?
The ESG job market is diverse and growing. Roles span across departments—not just sustainability teams:
- ESG Reporting Analyst
- Climate Risk Consultant
- Responsible Sourcing or Supply Chain Manager
- Net Zero or Climate Strategy Advisor
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Lead
- ESG Communications or Investor Relations Specialist
Search live ESG vacancies in the UK at www.esgrec.com
Skills Needed for a Career in ESG
You don’t need to be a scientist to thrive in ESG. Many roles value:
- Stakeholder engagement and communication
- Understanding of ESG regulation and reporting standards
- Data interpretation and sustainability metrics
- Project management and change leadership
- A purpose-driven and impact-focused approach
Looking to pivot into ESG? Let ESG REC help you translate your existing skills.
How to Start Your ESG Career
- Complete short courses or certificates (e.g., GRI, ISSB, CSRD, ESG investing)
- Follow ESG news, regulatory updates, and thought leaders
- Volunteer or support ESG initiatives in your current role
- Join ESG-focused LinkedIn groups and UK-based networks
- Update your CV to reflect sustainability knowledge and transferable skills
Visit www.esgrec.com for ESG learning resources and job listings.
Where to Find ESG Jobs in the UK
- Use ESG-related keywords on job boards (e.g. “sustainability analyst”, “climate risk”, “responsible business”)
- Register with specialist ESG recruitment firms
- Attend industry webinars, sustainability careers fairs, and professional events
- Bookmark www.esgrec.com — your hub for ESG jobs and talent advice
Final Tip
ESG is not just a trend—it’s the future of work.
Employers are seeking professionals who understand sustainability, ethical business, and regulatory expectations—even if they’ve never held an ESG-specific role.
Start by building knowledge, connecting with purpose, and developing the right mindset.
Ready to explore? Browse ESG roles and resources at www.esgrec.com
