ESG roles in the UK

As the UK accelerates its transition toward a sustainable and socially responsible economy, the demand for professionals specialising in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) roles has surged. From climate change specialists to diversity officers, ESG jobs span a wide range of industries, offering varied career paths with the potential for strong earning potential. Below, we explore some of the most sought-after ESG jobs in the UK, the industries leading the charge, and the typical salaries associated with these roles.

1. Sustainability Consultant

Sustainability consultants work with companies to help them reduce their environmental impact, develop sustainable business models, and comply with ESG regulations. These professionals assess carbon footprints, suggest energy-saving measures, and recommend changes to business practices that support long-term sustainability goals.

• Typical Salary: £35,000 to £65,000, with senior consultants earning over £80,000 annually.

• Key Industries: Consultancy firms, construction, manufacturing, energy, and technology.

2. Environmental Manager

Environmental managers are responsible for overseeing a company's environmental performance, ensuring compliance with regulations, and developing strategies to improve sustainability. Their duties can include managing waste, reducing pollution, and implementing green initiatives such as energy efficiency programs or renewable energy projects.

• Typical Salary: £40,000 to £70,000 depending on experience and company size.

• Key Industries: Manufacturing, energy, utilities, transportation, and agriculture.

3. ESG Analyst

An ESG analyst's role is to evaluate and analyse the environmental, social, and governance practices of companies, often for investment purposes. These professionals work in financial institutions, asset management firms, or consulting companies, using ESG data to assess investment risks and opportunities.

• Typical Salary: £45,000 to £85,000 depending on experience and seniority.

• Key Industries: Finance, investment banking, asset management, private equity, and venture capital.

4. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager

CSR managers are responsible for a company's social impact and community outreach initiatives. They ensure the business operates ethically, supports local communities, and implements responsible business practices, often focusing on philanthropy, volunteering, and employee engagement programs.

• Typical Salary: £40,000 to £70,000.

• Key Industries: Retail, consumer goods, hospitality, technology, and financial services.

5. Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) Officer

D&I officers are increasingly in demand as companies strive to improve workplace culture, promote diversity, and ensure inclusion. These professionals develop and implement diversity strategies, including recruitment practices, training programs, and policies that foster an inclusive work environment.

• Typical Salary: £50,000 to £85,000 depending on company size and sector.

• Key Industries: Finance, healthcare, tech, public sector, and education.

6. Climate Change Specialist

Climate change specialists are at the forefront of helping companies, governments, and non-profit organisations mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change. Their work can involve policy development, carbon reduction initiatives, climate risk assessments, and collaborating on sustainability projects.

• Typical Salary: £45,000 to £90,000 depending on expertise and the scope of projects.

• Key Industries: Government, non-profit organisations, energy, construction, and environmental consultancies.

7. Sustainable Supply Chain Manager

Sustainable supply chain managers focus on ensuring that all stages of a company’s supply chain adhere to ESG standards, including reducing environmental impact, ensuring ethical labour practices, and minimising waste. They often work closely with suppliers to implement sustainable sourcing and production practices.

• Typical Salary: £50,000 to £100,000 depending on industry and seniority.

• Key Industries: Retail, manufacturing, food and beverage, and consumer goods.

8. ESG Risk Manager

ESG risk managers identify and manage risks related to environmental, social, and governance issues, particularly in financial institutions. Their role involves assessing how ESG factors like climate change, social unrest, or regulatory changes could impact a company’s operations or investments.

• Typical Salary: £60,000 to £120,000, with significant variance depending on the size of the organisation.

• Key Industries: Banking, finance, insurance, and investment management.

9. Renewable Energy Engineer

With the UK's push for net-zero carbon emissions, renewable energy engineers are in high demand. These engineers design, implement, and manage projects involving renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydropower. They work on reducing reliance on fossil fuels and improving energy efficiency.

• Typical Salary: £45,000 to £90,000 depending on experience and the complexity of projects.

• Key Industries: Energy, utilities, construction, and engineering firms.

10. Governance Specialist

Governance specialists ensure that companies operate ethically and in line with legal and regulatory requirements. They help establish accountability, transparency, and responsible corporate governance frameworks, often working closely with boards of directors and senior management teams.

• Typical Salary: £55,000 to £120,000 depending on seniority and industry.

• Key Industries: Financial services, legal firms, corporate governance consultancies, and large public companies.

Industries with the Most ESG Job Requirements

Several industries in the UK are at the forefront of hiring for ESG roles due to the nature of their operations and the regulatory pressures they face. Some of the leading sectors include:

• Finance and Investment: With the rise of sustainable investing, asset managers, banks, and private equity firms are increasingly integrating ESG analysis into their investment processes. ESG roles in finance are rapidly expanding as investors demand more accountability from companies.

• Energy and Utilities: The UK’s push for renewable energy and the transition to a low-carbon economy means that companies in the energy sector are hiring heavily for ESG and sustainability roles, especially in renewable energy projects and carbon management.

• Manufacturing and Consumer Goods: These industries are under increasing pressure to minimise waste, reduce their carbon footprint, and ensure ethical labour practices. Roles in supply chain sustainability and environmental management are critical in these sectors.

• Technology: Tech companies, particularly those with significant supply chains or data centre needs, are also prioritising ESG professionals to help minimise environmental impacts and enhance governance structures.

• Construction and Real Estate: Given the environmental impact of construction and the need for sustainable building practices, roles related to green buildings, energy efficiency, and environmental compliance are snowballing in this sector.

Conclusion

The rise of ESG jobs in the UK reflects the broader shift toward a more sustainable, transparent, and socially responsible business landscape. From renewable energy engineers to governance specialists, the UK job market offers a wealth of opportunities for professionals eager to make a positive impact while advancing their careers. For job seekers and graduates, now is the ideal time to consider the ESG field, where demand for talent is strong, salaries are competitive, and the potential to contribute to meaningful change is immense.

By embracing ESG roles, individuals can play a critical role in shaping the future of industries while driving the UK’s transition to a more sustainable economy.

Exploring the Different Types of ESG Jobs in the UK Job Market