As ESG and sustainability continue to gain traction across UK industries, more professionals are looking to align their careers with purpose-driven work. The good news? Opportunities in ESG are growing. The challenge? So is the competition.
To stand out and secure your next role in this evolving field, it’s important to be strategic — not only about the roles you apply for, but also the platforms you use to find them. LinkedIn remains a valuable tool, but it’s not the only one at your disposal. Here’s how to make the most of LinkedIn and other platforms when exploring your next move in the ESG space.
1. Make Your LinkedIn Profile ESG-Ready
Your LinkedIn profile acts as your digital CV — and in many cases, your first impression.
Headline and Summary: Use clear, relevant keywords such as “ESG Analyst”, “Sustainability Consultant” or “Carbon Accountant” to help your profile show up in recruiter searches.
Experience and Achievements: Highlight real impact — e.g. “Delivered Scope 3 emissions analysis for a listed company” or “Supported ESG disclosures in line with TCFD recommendations.”
Skills and Training: Include ESG-related qualifications (such as IEMA, CFA ESG, or PRINCE2 for ESG projects), along with any specialist tools or frameworks you’ve worked with.
It also helps to follow sustainability leaders, comment on sector developments, and join ESG-related groups to stay engaged.
2. Look Beyond LinkedIn
While LinkedIn is an essential platform, casting a wider net gives you access to a broader range of opportunities — particularly in niche areas:
ESG REC: Visit www.esgrec.com/jobs for a curated list of ESG and sustainability roles across the UK and Europe.
EnvironmentJob.co.uk: A long-established job board focused on environmental and sustainability careers.
Guardian Jobs – Environment section: Especially useful for roles in local authorities, charities, and the public sector.
GreenJobs, Acre, Ethical Jobseeker: Specialist platforms for professionals in green industries and ethical sectors.
3. Stay Active and Connected
Many ESG opportunities are shared within networks before they reach public job boards. Being visible and active in the space gives you a competitive edge:
Attend ESG-focused webinars, panels, and career events.
Share your insights on LinkedIn to build credibility and showcase your interest in the sector.
Connect with peers, recruiters, and sustainability professionals working in areas you’re interested in.
4. Be Prepared to Move Quickly
In a growing but competitive market, timing matters. Make sure:
Your LinkedIn settings show you’re “open to work” (you can make this visible to recruiters only).
Your CV is tailored to each role, with an emphasis on outcomes and measurable ESG impact.
You’re ready with a concise “career story” that explains your ESG motivations and relevant experience.
Final Thought
Building a career in ESG requires more than passion — it also calls for visibility, credibility, and the right tools. By positioning yourself effectively on LinkedIn and using platforms designed for purpose-led roles, you’ll improve your chances of connecting with organisations that align with your values and aspirations.
Looking for Support in Your ESG Career Journey?
Whether you’re actively applying or just starting to explore opportunities in ESG, our team at ESG REC is here to help. Visit www.esgrec.com or drop us a line at info@esgrec.com to find out how we can support your next career step.
