Climate Risk and Strategy Lead

Timely Recruit is seeking an ESG Climate Risk & Strategy Lead for Sustainable Advantage, a top UK energy and sustainability consultancy. The role involves guiding mid to large companies through climate risk reporting and regulatory compliance, focusing on financial modelling and sustainability strategy. Key responsibilities include leading a new team for climate risk reporting, advising clients on climate-related risks, managing disclosures, conducting due diligence, and facilitating educational workshops for company boards.
Position: ESG Climate Risk & Strategy Lead

ABOUT US

Sustainable Advantage is one of the UK's leading energy and sustainability consultancies, supporting a range of public and private organisations, including schools, retailers, restaurant chains, construction companies and manufacturers across more than 5000 locations. We advise companies on their Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) journey, helping them embrace ESG for strategic advantage.

In addition to our sustainability consultancy, our services include energy procurement, management of utility infrastructure and diversions, bureau services, analysis of energy and water consumption, automatic monitoring and targeting, energy efficiency audits, energy projects delivery and waste management.

Sustainable Advantage supports many UK blue-chip clients across more than 25 sectors.

In 2019 Sustainable Advantage was recognised as the UK’s 70th fastest growing Private Company by Virgin Fast Track 100.

In 2023, Sustainable Advantage was a finalist in the Actum Group Private Equity Value Creation Award and was a finalist in the 2023 RealDeals ESG Awards for ESG Consulting and ESG Due Diligence.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

TITLE: ESG Climate Risk & Strategy Lead Consultant

REPORTS TO: Head of Climate Change and Carbon

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

This pivotal role aims to guide mid to large companies in the UK and EU through the complexities of regulatory and investor disclosures and support them in sell-side and buy-side due diligence. We seek a Senior Lead adept in financial accounting, climate risk reporting, and sustainability strategy.

ROLE OVERVIEW

You will drive the strategic development and operational execution of climate-related financial and risk reporting. This includes leading the integration of physical climate risk assessments and transition strategies into client business practices.

With a strong foundation in financial accounting, audit, or sustainability consultancy, you must possess profound knowledge in financial modelling, P&L, balance sheets, and forecasting, with a focus on developing climate sensitivity and scenario modelling.

KEY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Climate Risk Leadership: Establish and direct a new team focusing on comprehensive climate risk reporting and financial modelling. This will include the delivery of technical sustainability disclosures (CFD/TCFD).

Strategic Client Advisory: Act as a senior advisor to help clients navigate the risks and opportunities posed by climate change and the transition to a low-carbon economy. This involves leveraging your expertise in financial modelling and scenario analysis to provide robust risk assessments.

Regulatory Compliance and Reporting: Take the lead in managing and delivering CFD/TCFD disclosures, eventually broadening to include CSRD and ISSB. Utilise your deep understanding of climate financial modelling to ensure clients’ strategic compliance with evolving regulations.

Risk Assessment and Due Diligence: Perform due diligence for private equity clients, assessing both transition and physical climate risks to businesses and their supply chains, and provide strategic recommendations.

Educational Workshops and Training: Facilitate dynamic sessions with company boards to deepen their understanding of climate-related financial risks and opportunities, thereby enhancing strategic decision-making.

Sustainability Integration: Counsel clients on embedding sustainable and climate-focused practices within their risk management frameworks and overall business strategies.

Project and Team Management: Oversee the delivery of multiple client projects, ensuring they meet profitability and quality standards. Lead the recruitment, training, and development of team members, fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.

Proposal Development and Upselling: Lead the development of detailed proposals for new projects and actively engage in upselling additional services to existing clients, enhancing client engagement and revenue generation.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

EXPERIENCE

At least 5+ years in a consultancy role focusing on climate strategies, risk analysis and management, or a closely related field. A strong track record in financial analysis and climate-related disclosures is essential.

EDUCATION

Advanced degree (Masters or PhD) in Economics, Climate Science, Sustainable Finance, or a related field. Professional certifications related to ESG or Climate Risk would enhance your application.

SKILLS

Exceptional financial modelling capabilities, adept at handling large datasets, and proficiency in using advanced Excel for financial projections and climate scenario analysis. You should also have a solid understanding of risk management and the ability to integrate climate considerations into business strategies effectively.

PROFESSIONAL ATTRIBUTES

Highly analytical, with a capability to translate complex data into actionable insights. Strong leadership and communication skills are crucial, as is the ability to manage senior client relationships and develop strategic solutions.

LOCATION

The position is based in London, UK, with a flexible hybrid working arrangement. Presence in the office is expected at least three days per week to foster team collaboration and client engagement.

PACKAGE

The salary range on offer is £75-85,000 dependant on relevant skills and experience. The package also includes private medical insurance, pension, life assurance based on 3x annual salary (subject to eligibility criteria).