Sustainability

SUSTAINABILITY IN 2025: Strategies for Growth, Differentiation, and Future-Proofing You and Your Business

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Ready to Futureproof Your Business in 2025?

The future is here—and sustainability is your secret weapon for growth in 2025.

Join our FREE WEBINAR and discover how to turn challenges into opportunities with practical strategies from industry experts.

When: January 23, 2025 | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
 Where: Online

Our Expert Speaker:
 Josh Matthews, Activist Analyst; Practice Leader for Sustainability at HFS Research
Josh will share exclusive insights on how UK businesses can lead with sustainability, tackle regulations, and fuel growth in a rapidly evolving world.

Why Attend?
✅ Learn how to position your business as a sustainability leader.
✅ Navigate the biggest challenges of 2025 with confidence.
✅ Gain actionable strategies to boost innovation and profitability.

Secure your spot today!

    Let’s shape the future together.

     

    For more information, email us at info@esgrec.com or call us at +44(0)208 1242716.

    Posted in Uncategorised, CSR, ESG, Governance, Green Energy, WebinarTagged in , , , , ,

    Key ESG Certifications to Advance Your Sustainability Career in the UK

    Key ESG Certifications to Advance Your Sustainability Career in the UK

    The demand for skilled sustainability experts is booming as the focus on addressing climate change and other environmental issues grows. However, with the current shortage of “green talent,” there is a unique opportunity for professionals to gain ESG certifications to enhance their qualifications and stand out in the UK job market.
    As the UK moves closer to its net-zero targets and emphasizes corporate responsibility, the need for qualified ESG professionals becomes more urgent. Today’s companies are increasingly embracing sustainable practices and finding meaningful ways to demonstrate their commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals. To meet these demands, professionals across industries can benefit from an in-depth understanding of ESG principles—whether they work in finance, supply chain management, legal, manufacturing or beyond.
    Many business leaders and HR departments are supporting green upskilling, but professionals can also take proactive steps to advance their sustainability education. Pursuing ESG training and certification not only enhances employability but also adds credibility in this growing sector.
    Here are some of key certifications that can help UK professionals build a competitive edge in the sustainability job market

    1. Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) Certification

    The IEMA is one of the UK’s leading environmental and sustainability bodies, offering several ESG certifications for professionals at all career stages. From introductory courses on environmental awareness to advanced qualifications in sustainability strategy, IEMA certifications are widely recognized across industries. They cover essential topics like environmental management systems, auditing, and sustainability leadership, making them ideal for ESG professionals seeking comprehensive knowledge in the UK market.

    Ideal for:  Sustainability managers, CSR professionals, environmental consultants

    [Visit IEMA]

    2. Carbon Literacy Project Certification

    With the UK government’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions, understanding carbon impact is crucial. The Carbon Literacy Project provides training designed to equip professionals with practical skills for reducing carbon footprints within organizations and communities. Certification through this project showcases a candidate’s understanding of climate change science and actionable strategies for reducing emissions, which is invaluable for UK professionals focused on sustainability.

    Ideal for: Sustainability officers, corporate responsibility professionals, HR and operations managers.

    [Visit the Carbon Literacy Project]

    3. Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Certification

    GRI standards are widely used by UK companies for transparent and structured sustainability reporting. This certification enables professionals to guide organizations in ESG reporting on environmental, social, and governance issues. GRI-certified experts are highly sought after, as companies in the UK increasingly prioritize corporate responsibility and transparency.

    Ideal for: Corporate reporters, CSR specialists, public relations and communications professionals.

    [Visit GRI]

    4. CFA UK Certificate in ESG Investing

    For UK investment professionals, the CFA UK Certificate in ESG Investing is essential. This certification provides insights into integrating ESG factors into investment strategies, covering topics like ESG analysis, regulatory frameworks, and risk assessment. It’s especially relevant for asset managers, financial analysts, and portfolio managers handling sustainable investments.

    Ideal for: Investment analysts, portfolio managers, asset managers

    [Visit CFA UK]

    5. University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL) Courses

    The University of Cambridge offers respected sustainability programs through its Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL). These courses provide a deep dive into sustainable business practices, covering sustainable finance, corporate responsibility, and leadership in sustainability. Although not formal certifications, these programs are valued across the UK and Europe, adding credibility to any CV.

    Ideal for: Senior management, corporate strategists, sustainability advisor.

    [Visit Cambridge CISL]

    6. Climate-Related Financial Risk (CFR) Certification by GARP

    In response to the UK’s heightened focus on climate-related financial risk, the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP) offers certification that addresses this area. Training covers measuring, managing, and disclosing climate risks, making the CFR certification ideal for UK professionals in risk management, asset management, and finance. This qualification is particularly valuable as climate risk reporting regulations grow in the UK.

    Ideal for: Risk managers, financial analysts, asset managers.

    [Visit GARP]

    7. BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) Certification

    BREEAM is a globally recognized certification for sustainable building and development projects, originating in the UK. This certification sets the standard for assessing, rating, and certifying building sustainability. It’s essential for professionals in real estate, urban planning, or construction, where sustainable practices are increasingly required by UK regulations and environmental commitments.

    Ideal for: Architects, real estate developers, construction managers.

    [Visit BREEAM]

    Choosing the Right ESG Certification for Your UK Career

    Selecting the most suitable ESG certification is a personalized decision that hinges on various factors, including your current skill set, career aspirations, and the specific industry in which you operate.

    For example, financial professionals who are involved in investment analysis or portfolio management may find the CFA UK Certificate in ESG Investing particularly beneficial. This certification equips them with the knowledge and skills necessary to integrate ESG factors into investment strategies, enhancing their ability to make informed decisions that align with sustainable finance practices.

    On the other hand, individuals working in real estate or construction might benefit more from pursuing BREEAM certification. This globally recognized standard assesses the sustainability performance of buildings and infrastructure, making it an invaluable credential for professionals aiming to improve sustainability in the built environment. BREEAM certification not only demonstrates a commitment to eco-friendly building practices but also enhances a professional’s credibility within these sectors.

    Ultimately, choosing the right certification involves assessing how it aligns with your current role, the skills you wish to develop, and the demands of your industry, ensuring that you make an informed decision that supports your career growth in the ESG field.

    The Value of ESG Certifications for UK Employers

    UK employers are actively seeking candidates with ESG expertise who can apply sustainable practices within national regulations and industry standards. Obtaining one or more of these certifications demonstrates your commitment to professional development and your readiness to address sustainability challenges in the UK.

    By investing in an ESG certification, professionals in the UK can improve their qualifications, remain competitive, and contribute to the nation’s journey toward a sustainable, low-carbon future.

    To stay updated on the latest ESG trends and opportunities, visit www.esgrec.com. Also, don’t miss the chance to attend our free webinar, where you can learn more about sustainability practices. Join us for a valuable opportunity to gain expert insights into the latest sustainability trends and essential risk management strategies.

    What to Expect:

    – Cutting-edge discussions on sustainability practices

    – Effective risk management techniques for ESG professionals

    – Key takeaways to enhance your organization’s sustainability journey

    Don’t miss this opportunity to stay ahead of industry trends and deepen your expertise!

    REGISTER HERE: https://esgrec.com/sustainability-and-carbon-accounting-essential-insights-for-the-esg-workforce/

    Posted in Career Development, CSR, ESG, Green Energy, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , ,

    Elevate Your ESG Career with Essential Tips for Mid-Career Professionals to Shine in Sustainability

      If you’ve been working in sustainability or ESG for a while and are looking to take the next step in your career, it’s essential to know how to stand out in this competitive field. Building on advice for those just starting out, this article focuses on strategies for professionals who already have some experience and are aiming for the next level.

      1. Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills

      Whether you’re just starting out or have been in the field for years, the ability to connect with people is crucial. In recent interviews with chief sustainability officers, one recurring theme was the difficulty of finding candidates who balance technical skills with strong interpersonal skills.

      In sustainability, success often depends on influencing and working with various departments and stakeholders. Highlighting your ability to build rapport, communicate effectively, and influence others can be a game-changer. Demonstrate these skills on your CV, in internal and external networking opportunities, and through platforms like LinkedIn. This will help you stand out and showcase your value beyond technical expertise.

      2. Leverage Your Experience

      As a mid-career professional, it’s essential to demonstrate the knowledge and expertise you’ve gained. Don’t shy away from discussing your experience in interviews, on your CV, or even in casual conversations. Whether it’s project management, data analysis, or leading sustainability initiatives, ensure that your skills and experiences are well-documented.

      Update your LinkedIn profile, share your achievements when speaking at events, and mention the lessons you’ve learned along the way. Your experience can provide a significant competitive edge, positioning you as someone who has been there and done that.

      3. Position Yourself as a Thought Leader

      The sustainability and ESG sectors are evolving rapidly, but they are still relatively young as formal professions. By sharing your opinions and insights, you can help shape the industry while positioning yourself as a thought leader.

      You don’t have to be a keynote speaker at every event to achieve this. Start small—comment on relevant LinkedIn posts, share articles, or provide feedback at internal meetings. Over time, these actions will help you build a reputation as someone with valuable insights, making you a go-to person for advice in your field.

      4. Never Stop Learning

      The sustainability landscape is constantly changing, with new regulations, technologies, and best practices emerging frequently. Staying ahead means continuously learning and adapting. Whether it’s taking short courses, attending conferences, or reading up on the latest industry news, make it a priority to stay informed.

      When you’re well-versed in current trends and regulations, you can speak from a position of authority in discussions. This not only boosts your credibility but also ensures that you’re prepared for future challenges and opportunities.

      5. Be Generous with Your Time

      Volunteering your time—whether inside or outside your organization—can help you stand out. Internally, departments often seek the ESG team’s input for making key decisions related to risk, finance, or HR. By offering your assistance and collaborating across departments, you can position yourself as a helpful and knowledgeable resource.

      Externally, consider volunteering in community projects or industry initiatives. This not only broadens your network but also demonstrates your commitment to the sustainability cause. Being known as someone who is generous with their time can significantly enhance your professional reputation.

      Ready for Your Next Career Move?

      Whether it’s showcasing your interpersonal skills, leveraging your experience, or positioning yourself as a thought leader. Need help with your next step? Let’s connect and explore opportunities together!

      Looking to level up your ESG career? Discover key tips to stand out and make your mark! Visit www.esgrec.com or email us at jonathan@esgrec.com to learn more.

      Posted in Career Development, Climate Change, CSR, ESG, ESG CAREER, Governance, Green EnergyTagged in , , , , ,

      Transform Your ESG Strategy: Why Contracting Specialists Can Boost Your Team’s Efficiency

      The role of a sustainability professional in the current market is changing rapidly. New legislation increases in workload, new tools and technology all add additional learning on top of doing the day job.  Keeping moreover is a challenge.  Many people reading this will relate to these challenges and know that they are often a small department (sometimes a department of one) that is expected to punch above its weight in terms of productivity.

      When we also add into this mix the increasing level of rigour being applied to ESG Reporting and the financial and time cost of being audited, it is easy to understand why Sustainability teams are reaching for the phone to their manager and asking for extra help.

      The ESG labour market is starting to mature and with that maturity often comes the emergency of skills in the form of freelance and contract staff.  A lot of companies have relied on consultancies in recent years, and they have filled an important gap in the market.  But with the emergence of contract staff, ESG teams now have another string to their bow to be able to tackle some of those tricky one of projects or deal with peaks in workload (did somebody say CSRD?).

      So, if this sounds like you.  Here are just some of the reasons you might like to think about hiring on a contract or flexible basis before going through a lengthy recruitment process for your next hire that you may not need to do:

      · Access to Specialist Skills: Sustainability and ESG are evolving fields with niche areas of expertise, such as carbon accounting, sustainable finance, or regulatory compliance. Hiring contract specialists allows you to tap into specific expertise that you might not have in house or need after a particular project or period is complete.

      · Adding Resources Without Extra Headcount: Engaging contract or flexible staff enables you to bring in additional resources without increasing your permanent headcount. This helps you meet your project demands while maintaining leaner operational structures, which can be important for budgeting or managing long-term commitments.

      · Handling Peaks of Work During Busy Periods: Technology can and does help but sustainability reporting, audits, or compliance checks often require extra workforce during specific periods or for a fixed amount of time. Contract staff can help absorb these peaks in workload, ensuring that these and other critical deadlines are met without overburdening you or the rest of your core team.

      · Cost Efficiency and Flexibility: Contract staff can often be more cost-effective than hiring full-time employees, especially when the need for specific skills is temporary, or project based. You can scale resources up or down according to your current needs, avoiding long-term payroll costs.

      · Speed to hire: A contractor will often join you with the experience you need and require minimal or no training to get up to speed. This means that you can sometimes “over-hire” for skill but not have to worry about long term retention. This means that you can accelerate your time to hire and start to tackle your project (or problem) quickly.

      · Fresh Perspectives and Innovation: Bringing in external specialists can introduce innovative ideas, technologies, and best practices from other companies or sectors. This can help spark innovation and improvement in a company’s sustainability strategies.  This will support you in staying competitive and forward-thinking.

      If you are considering how, you might tackle an upcoming deadline or project and would like to explore the option of augmenting your current ESG or Sustainability team but do not want to fully outsource the activity, why not explore using a contract member of staff?  Contact the ESG REC team on +44 (0)208 1242716 or at info@esgrec.com

      Posted in ESG CAREER, Career Development, Climate Change, CSR, ESG, Governance, Green Energy, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , ,

      Dynamic Growth: CSRD Vacancies in Europe and Navigating the October 2024 Market Shift

      CSRD Vacancies in Europe: Navigating the October 2024 Market Shif

      As the demand for Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) skills continues to surge, the European job market has seen a significant increase in opportunities related to sustainability reporting and compliance. This trend has remained steady throughout 2024, driven by heightened regulatory requirements and a strong corporate commitment to sustainability. Recent data indicates that vacancies for CSRD-related roles have soared by an impressive 91% since the start of the year.

      However, October 2024 has introduced the first signs of change in this thriving sector. For the first time, we observed a slight downturn in the number of advertised vacancies for CSRD professionals on LinkedIn. While this shift is noteworthy, it’s essential to recognize that it represents just one month of data. Whether this is a temporary market fluctuation or the onset of a longer trend remains to be seen, but it provides valuable insights for employers hiring in the sustainability sector.

      What Does This Shift Mean for Employers?

      For employers seeking talent in the CSRD market, this downturn presents both challenges and opportunities. With fewer vacancies advertised, there may be reduced competition for highly sought-after talent, creating an ideal environment to refine your recruitment strategy and make strategic hires. Here are three key actions you can take to capitalize on this moment:

      1. Optimize Your Recruitment Process

      In a changing job market, your recruitment process should be adaptable and responsive to new trends. Strengthening your approach can start with gathering feedback from recent hires. Ask new employees about their experiences in the hiring process—what they appreciated and what could be improved. This information can help you identify gaps and make necessary adjustments.

      For instance, were candidates satisfied with the speed of communication? Did they find the interview process streamlined and efficient? Did your job ads accurately reflect the role’s requirements? Addressing these areas can enhance your recruitment process, especially in a competitive landscape where employer branding is crucial for attracting top talent.

      Ensure that all internal stakeholders are aligned—from HR teams to hiring managers. A smooth recruitment journey hinges on consistent communication and clearly defined responsibilities. By streamlining collaboration, you can reduce hiring times and improve the candidate experience, which could be the key to securing the best talent.

      2. Maximize Your Job Ad Visibility

      With a slight decline in advertised vacancies, your job postings could stand out more than ever. Now is the time to ensure that your job advertisements are not only highly visible but also optimized for success. Consider these strategies to enhance your job ad approach:

      • Use Powerful Keywords: Incorporate relevant industry-specific terms to attract qualified candidates actively searching for CSRD roles.
      • Engaging Content: Craft compelling job descriptions that highlight the impact and importance of the position within your sustainability initiatives.

      By optimizing and engaging your job ads, you can attract the attention of a focused audience that may be browsing vacancies more attentively due to the recent dip in job openings.

      3. Leverage Your Recruitment Partner

      If you’re collaborating with a recruitment partner like ESGrec, now is the perfect moment to accelerate your hiring process. With fewer opportunities in the market, top candidates are likely to respond quickly to well-positioned job offers. A recruitment partner can help ensure you don’t miss out on high-caliber talent.

      Agencies like ESGrec provide valuable insights into the talent landscape and offer tailored recruitment solutions to meet your hiring needs. From understanding market trends to sourcing and screening candidates, a specialized partner can streamline your recruitment process and reduce time-to-hire. This advantage becomes even more apparent in competitive sectors like CSRD, where the demand for specialized skills is on the rise.

      Partnering with ESGrec grants you access to a network of professionals with expertise in sustainability, carbon accounting, and CSRD compliance. This network is crucial in a fluctuating market, helping you navigate challenges such as ensuring your job descriptions appeal to the right candidates and aligning your employer branding with market expectations.

      Why Now Is a Strategic Time to Hire

      The slight dip in vacancies could work to your advantage, as fewer companies are advertising new roles. This means that candidates currently seeking jobs may have fewer distractions and more time to focus on your vacancy. By moving quickly and efficiently through the hiring process, you increase your chances of securing top talent who are in high demand but facing limited options.

      Moreover, the sustainability space continues to evolve rapidly. Securing skilled professionals who can help your company navigate regulatory challenges and drive impactful ESG initiatives is essential. The growing focus on CSRD compliance underscores the importance of having a robust team with the right expertise. As regulations become stricter and the demand for transparency in corporate sustainability reporting intensifies, now is the time to build a strong CSRD team.

      Final Thoughts

      At ESGrec, we are committed to helping companies like yours find the best talent to navigate this fast-evolving landscape. Whether you’re looking to hire for your sustainability team or seeking advice on optimizing your recruitment strategy, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

      If you’re in need of CSRD professionals or assistance refining your recruitment process, reach out to jonathan@esgrec.com or visit our website at www.esgrec.com. Let’s work together to ensure your recruitment strategy is ahead of the curve and that you’re attracting the very best talent in this critical space.

      Posted in CSR, Climate Change, ESG, Governance, Green Energy, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , , , ,

      Current Trends in EU Sustainability Jobs – October 2024

      As we navigate through October 2024, the sustainability jobs market in the EU is experiencing some notable fluctuations. Jonathan Hart-Smith recently shared insights on the current landscape, revealing that sustainability job vacancies are down nearly 5% compared to last month and show a significant decline of about 21% from the peak earlier this year. However, there is a silver lining: job postings are still 10% higher than at the beginning of the year. This indicates that businesses remain committed to advancing their sustainability initiatives and expanding their teams.

      Understanding the Sustainability Jobs Landscape

      Tracking the sustainability job market allows us to gauge the commitment of organizations toward environmental and social governance. While the recent dip in job vacancies may raise concerns, the overall upward trend for the year suggests a positive outlook for sustainability roles. Companies across the EU are still investing in talent to bolster their sustainability strategies, highlighting the importance of these positions in today’s job market.

      Strategies for Hiring in a Competitive Market

      If your organization is looking to hire in the sustainability sector during this transitional phase, Jonathan Hart-Smith outlines several strategies to attract top talent:

      1. Leverage the Current Market Dynamics

      With a slight decrease in vacancies, hiring organizations have a more engaged candidate pool. This is an opportune moment to reach out to potential employees who might be seeking stability and purpose in their careers. By positioning your company as a leader in sustainability, you can attract candidates who resonate with your values.

      1. Communicate Your Commitment to Sustainability

      One of the key factors in attracting candidates is effectively communicating your commitment to sustainability. Ensure that your sustainability goals are clearly outlined on your website and social media platforms. Highlight your initiatives and showcase how your organization is making a positive impact. Engaging content about your sustainability efforts can significantly enhance your employer brand and attract environmentally conscious candidates.

      1. Invest in Employee Retention

      While hiring new talent is crucial, retaining your current employees is equally important. With sustainability job vacancies up by 10% since the beginning of the year, it is essential to invest in the talent you already have. Focus on job enrichment and professional development initiatives to keep your workforce engaged and motivated. Showcasing your commitment to employee growth will make your organization more appealing to prospective hires.

      1. Craft a Compelling Job Offer

      When creating job postings, consider what candidates in the sustainability sector value most. While competitive salaries are important, many candidates prioritize flexibility, professional growth opportunities, and the chance to make a meaningful impact. Make sure your job offers reflect these values, emphasizing how new hires will contribute to your organization’s sustainability mission.

      1. Streamline the Recruitment Process

      An efficient recruitment process can make a significant difference in securing top talent. Aim to move candidates through the hiring process as quickly and smoothly as possible. Train your recruitment team on best practices to ensure they effectively communicate your sustainability commitments throughout the interview process. The goal is to create a positive candidate experience that reflects your organization’s values.

      Conclusion

      The sustainability jobs market in the EU is evolving, and despite recent fluctuations, the demand for qualified professionals remains strong. By implementing these strategies, organizations can position themselves to attract the best candidates in this competitive landscape.

      If you’re looking for more data and statistics regarding employment in the sustainability or ESG sectors, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We provide valuable insights to help you navigate the complexities of the sustainability jobs market.

      Visit us at www.esgrec.com for more information and assistance with your hiring strategies in the sustainability sector.

      Posted in Uncategorised, Climate Change, CSR, ESG, Governance, Green EnergyTagged in , , , , , , ,

      September Update: Sustainability Jobs Market in the UK

      September Update: Sustainability Jobs Market in the UK

      The sustainability job market in the UK has seen significant growth in September, with roles up 17% since the start of the year and 22% compared to last month. Despite being slightly lower than the peak in July, overall job vacancies are averaging 15% higher over the past three months compared to the first half of the year.

      Jonathan Heart Smith, ESG Rec’s lead expert, explains that this increase may be linked to companies gearing up for sustainability reporting requirements and more stability post-election. Additionally, with 20% of the sustainability workforce having moved in the past year, new leadership roles are emerging, and teams are expanding.

      If you’re hiring for sustainability roles or looking for new opportunities in the sector, now is a great time to act. Contact us to find out how we can help.

      Posted in UncategorisedTagged in ,

      Unlocking ESG Talent; Jonathan Hart Smith’s Key Insights from Sustainability Live 2024

      Unlocking ESG Talent; Jonathan Hart Smith’s Key Insights from Sustainability Live 2024

      Jonathan Hart Smith, Founder of ESG REC, engaged the attendees at Sustainability Live 2024 with a compelling fireside chat, shedding light on the current state of the ESG and sustainability job market. With a career spanning molecular biology to recruitment, Jonathan shared his unique journey and valuable insights into the evolving landscape of ESG talent.

      From Science to Sustainability

      Jonathan’s career began in the labs as a Molecular Biologist, but he quickly realized that the lab environment wasn’t his true calling. His transition into the business side of things, starting with a recruitment company specializing in life sciences, set the stage for his eventual foray into sustainability. Jonathan’s experience running a leading life science
      recruitment firm, which was acquired nearly three years ago, provided him with a robust foundation in understanding data and the importance of impactful business practices.
      With a passion for making a difference, Jonathan co-founded ESG REC with Michael
      O’Brien, focusing on recruitment for ESG teams. Their mission is not only to place top talent but also to demonstrate that businesses can be profitable while actively contributing to societal good. ESG REC integrates environmental and social initiatives into their operations, such as donations to charitable causes tied to successful placements and employs people from disadvantaged backgrounds.


      The Current Market for ESG Talent
      Jonathan’s discussion provided a snapshot of the ESG job market, highlighting key trends and demands:

      Demand for ESG Roles in the UK: There is noticeable fluidity in the ESG job market, with over 22% of the workforce changing jobs in the past year. London leads in employment numbers, far surpassing other cities.

      Senior vs. Operational Roles: While there is a stable demand for senior ESG positions, the most significant growth is in junior to mid-management roles. The need for roles such as Sustainability Analysts, ESG Analysts, and Carbon Accountants is on the rise. Companies
      are also seeking ESG Managers and consultants for specific projects.

      Challenges in ESG Recruitment
      Jonathan also identified several challenges companies face in sourcing ESG talent:

      Skills Gap – There is a shortage of professionals with both technical expertise and the ability to effectively communicate and manage ESG initiatives. Many organizations struggle
      with pairing technical skills with the necessary communication and project management capabilities.


      Overlapping Skill Requirements –Companies often seek candidates with a broad range of skills, leading to unrealistic expectations. Jonathan suggests focusing on essential skills
      and considering a mix of full-time roles and contract positions to fill gaps.


      Strategies for Overcoming ESG Talent Challenges

      Jonathan offered practical advice for companies navigating the ESG talent landscape:

      Leverage Internal Talent – Consider promoting from within to fill ESG roles, as internal candidates already understand the company’s culture and operations.

      Prioritize Influencing Skills – Ensure that ESG leaders have strong support from the Board and the ability to influence others within the organization.


      Realistic Skill Requirements – For operational roles, identify core competencies and be
      prepared to train or develop skills in-house. Partnering with specialized consultants for temporary needs can also be effective.


      Trends and Predictions

      Jonathan also some future trends that includes:


      Steady Leadership Hiring – Expect continued steady hiring for leadership and middle management roles without the previous surge.


      Increased Demand for Reporting Skill – There will be a growing need for professionals skilled in ESG reporting and analysis, particularly those proficient with machine learning
      tools.


      CSRD Reporting – Companies are building capacity to handle CSRD reporting requirements, leading to an increased demand for related expertise.


      Mature Consulting Market – A shift towards using consultants for project-based needs rather than hiring permanent, multi-skilled employees.


      Market Stability and Future Outlook


      Jonathan has been also asked about his report last month about the stability of the current market and why the stability is beneficial?

      Jonathan answered that when there is stability in supply and demand, companies can make informed decisions about hiring. According to recent data, while the number of people working in sustainability-based jobs has increased significantly since the beginning of the year, the number of vacancies has also grown. This indicates stability in job
      movement, but not necessarily in the overall supply and demand balance.
      The report highlights that:


      Stability – Stability in the market is advantageous as it allows companies to plan better and make more informed hiring decisions.


      Growth – The growth in the number of sustainability jobs is encouraging for the sector, showing increased interest and professionalization.


      Vacancies – Although the number of vacancies has also risen, this suggests a competitive hiring environment.

      Workforce Movement – Over the past 12 months, 20% of the UK sustainability workforce has moved jobs, shrinking the pool of available candidates.

      Average Tenure – The average job tenure in sustainability roles is relatively short (1.8 to 2.3 years), which can pose challenges for businesses trying to retain experienced staff.


      Hiring Trends – There has been a slight increase in senior-level hiring, though not as intense as previously. The demand for these positions is gradually climbing.

      The data shows that while the market is stable, businesses face challenges such as managing job turnover and navigating a competitive hiring landscape. The stability in supply and demand provides an opportunity for companies to address these challenges and refine their hiring strategies.


      Shifting Trends

      Jonathan was also asked about the changes he has observed in what companies are looking for and who they are seeking. He provided some historical context to explain the current landscape. A few years ago, during the Great Resignation, companies faced significant challenges in filling roles, particularly senior positions such as Chief Sustainability Officers (CSOs) and heads of ESG. Although this trend has eased, there is now a gradual increase in senior-level hiring.
      The average job tenure of around two years means that employees often gain enough experience and reputation to attract offers from other companies, which adds to the complexity of hiring and retention. Additionally, the growing importance of sustainability reporting has led to a heightened demand for professionals with expertise in this area.
      Overall, the current market stability provides an opportunity for businesses to address these challenges and make more strategic hiring decisions.
      Jonathan Hart Smith’s session at Sustainability Live 2024 was both enlightening and inspiring, offering valuable perspectives on the ESG job market and the future of sustainability recruitment

      Posted in Uncategorised, CSR, ESG, Green EnergyTagged in , , ,