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- Tasks: Lead sustainability initiatives and embed eco-friendly practices across university operations.
- Company: Join Kingston University London, a leader in higher education committed to sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, professional development opportunities, and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainability while working in a dynamic and innovative team.
- Qualifications: Experience in sustainability, project management, and strong communication skills are essential.
- Other info: This is a 12-month maternity cover role with potential for early termination.
The predicted salary is between 60155 - 60155 £ per year.
Kingston University London is seeking to appoint a Strategic Operational Lead for Sustainability to provide maternity cover for a 12-month fixed term. This is a key leadership role within the Estates and Sustainability Team, focused on delivering the University\’s ambitious sustainability goals through operational excellence, collaboration, and innovation.
As the University continues to implement its Sustainability Plan, this role is responsible for leading delivery of Strand 2 – sustainability through our estate and operations – and ensuring alignment with Strand 1 (teaching, learning, research and knowledge exchange). The postholder will embed sustainable practices across all operational functions, while also contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Accord and supporting wider borough-level action through the Royal Borough of Kingston\’s Climate Action and Sustainability Plans.
This role will lead and coordinate multiple workstreams, including the successful implementation of the Environmental Management System (EMS) in accordance with ISO14001 standards, measurement and reduction of scope 3 carbon emissions, and the development of key policy and process improvements. The postholder will manage the University\’s sustainability budget and oversee reporting for a range of statutory and voluntary disclosures, including the Annual Sustainability Report, UN SDG Accord Report, Estates Management Record and sustainability league table submissions such as People & Planet.
The successful candidate will be a confident and experienced sustainability professional with a deep understanding of environmental compliance, ISO14001, sustainability reporting, stakeholder engagement and operational change leadership. They will possess strong project management, communication and data analysis skills, and be able to work strategically while delivering tangible improvements across a complex and evolving estate. This role will appeal to someone passionate about implementing environmental management systems and achieving real-world progress toward sustainable development in the higher education sector.
The Directorate for Finance, HR, and Infrastructure plays a critical role in shaping and supporting the University\’s strategic and operational success. With a focus on excellence, efficiency, and people-centred practices, it delivers vital services that influence the daily experience of staff and students while enabling long-term institutional growth. These services span financial management, workforce development, and the maintenance of both physical and digital infrastructure – ensuring the University\’s operations and ambitions are fully supported. With a clear focus on service quality, innovation, and people-first practices, the Directorate operates in close partnership with academic faculties and senior leadership to ensure institutional goals are achieved. It is driven by a commitment to excellence, service, and sustainable progress, promoting a culture where collaboration, innovation and transformation thrive. This is an opportunity to join a proactive, solutions-focused team whose work directly contributes to the University\’s continued success.
Estates & Sustainability sits within the Finance, Infrastructure and HR Directorate and exists to support Kingston University\’s academic mission and the goals set out in its strategic plan. It leads on strategic planning, capital development, space management, operational sustainability, energy management, and biodiversity management, as well as statutory compliance and operation of the campuses and premises used by the university. It provides direction for the operation, facilities maintenance, and management of the estate by KUSCO – a wholly owned subsidiary of the University.
This is a full time, fixed term position for 12 months with a starting salary of £60,155 per annum.
This fixed term position is available as a result of maternity leave, and it is expected that you will hold it for the full period. However, should the substantive post-holder on maternity leave exercise their right to return to work earlier, then this appointment will be terminated, subject to a notice period of one month.
Interviews are expected to be held on the 9 th September 2025.
For informal enquiries, please contact Stephanie Todd , Strategic Operational Lead for Sustainability.
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Strategic Operational Lead for Sustainability employer: KINGSTON UNIVERSITY
Contact Detail:
KINGSTON UNIVERSITY Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Operational Lead for Sustainability
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Kingston University's Sustainability Plan and the specific goals outlined in Strand 2. Understanding their current initiatives will help you demonstrate your alignment with their objectives during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the sustainability sector, especially those who have experience with ISO14001 standards. Engaging with these individuals can provide insights into best practices and may even lead to valuable connections within the university.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in managing sustainability projects and how you've successfully implemented environmental management systems. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your project management and data analysis skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest trends and developments in sustainability reporting and compliance. Being knowledgeable about current regulations and frameworks will position you as a strong candidate who can contribute effectively to the university's sustainability goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Operational Lead for Sustainability
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Strategic Operational Lead for Sustainability. Identify key responsibilities and required skills, such as experience with ISO14001 and sustainability reporting, to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your previous roles related to sustainability, project management, and operational change leadership. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead initiatives and achieve tangible results in sustainability.
Showcase Your Skills: Make sure to highlight your communication, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with teams or led projects that align with the university's sustainability goals.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a tailored cover letter that connects your passion for sustainability with Kingston University's mission. Discuss how your vision aligns with their Sustainability Plan and how you can contribute to their goals during the maternity cover period.
How to prepare for a job interview at KINGSTON UNIVERSITY
✨Understand the Sustainability Goals
Familiarise yourself with Kingston University's sustainability goals and the specific objectives outlined in their Sustainability Plan. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with these goals and how you can contribute to achieving them.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
As this role involves leading multiple workstreams, highlight your project management experience. Provide examples of past projects where you successfully implemented sustainability initiatives, focusing on your ability to coordinate teams and manage budgets effectively.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of ISO14001 Standards
Since the role requires implementing an Environmental Management System in accordance with ISO14001 standards, ensure you can discuss your understanding of these standards. Share any relevant experiences where you've worked with or implemented similar systems.
✨Engage with Stakeholder Engagement Strategies
Stakeholder engagement is crucial for this position. Prepare to discuss your strategies for engaging various stakeholders, including academic faculties and senior leadership. Highlight any successful collaborations you've led that resulted in tangible sustainability outcomes.
