Head of Sustainability

Head of Sustainability

London Full-Time 43200 - 72000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead sustainability initiatives and manage a dedicated team to drive positive change.
  • Company: Join Sheppard Robson, a leading architectural practice with a commitment to sustainable design.
  • Benefits: Be part of a forward-thinking team with opportunities for professional growth and impact.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in the fight against climate change while shaping the future of design.
  • Qualifications: A degree in architecture or sustainable design, plus strong leadership and communication skills.
  • Other info: This role is pivotal as we approach our 90th anniversary, enhancing our industry leadership.

The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.

Sheppard Robson is seeking an experienced and passionate sustainability leader to join Sheppard Robson as Head of Sustainability. This is a senior leadership position responsible for championing sustainable designacross the practice, with support from our Sustainability Coordinator and Social Value Champion, Sustainable Materials Specialist and wider Sustainability Group.

The ideal candidate will drive our sustainability agenda both internally and externally, combining technical expertise with excellent leadership and communication skills to influence positive change across the practice and wider industry.

This senior leadership position will be instrumental in strengthening our position as industry leaders in sustainable design as we approach our 90th anniversary in 2028.

Key responsibilities:

Lead and manage the practice’s established sustainability team

Drive net zero carbon organizational strategy and implementation

Provide strategic sustainability input on projects and design reviews

Champion sustainable practices and deliver staff training

Represent the practice on industry bodies and at external events

Oversee development of in-house sustainability tools, guidance and processes

Support business development and marketing initiatives relating to sustainability

Essential skills and experience:

Design or engineering background in the construction industry

Excellent interpersonal, communication and leadership skills

Excellent organisational and time management skills

Proven leadership and team management experience

Extensive knowledge of sustainable design principles and practices

Able to engage knowledgeably on the broader subject of climate change mitigation and impact.

Experience with environmental certification systems (e.g. BREEAM, WELL, LEED)

Proven track record in delivering sustainability strategies

Strong organizational and project management abilities

Public speaking and presentation experience

Knowledge of current and emerging sustainability legislation

Optional/desirable skills and experience:

Experience with energy modelling and analysis tools

Experience with OneClick LCA, or other industry embodied carbon tool

Industry committee or task group participation

Post-occupancy evaluation experience

Knowledge and understanding of the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard

Qualification :

Ideally a degree in architecture and/or sustainable design

This is an exceptional opportunity for an ambitious sustainability professional to build upon our established foundation and make a significant impact within a leading architectural practice committed to addressing climate change through innovative design.

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Head of Sustainability employer: Sheppard Robson

At Sheppard Robson, we pride ourselves on being a forward-thinking employer that champions sustainability and innovation in design. Our collaborative work culture fosters creativity and empowers our employees to lead impactful projects, while our commitment to professional development ensures that you will grow alongside us as we approach our 90th anniversary. Join us in shaping a sustainable future and enjoy the unique advantage of working within a supportive team dedicated to making a difference in the architectural industry.
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Contact Detail:

Sheppard Robson Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Sustainability

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarize yourself with Sheppard Robson's current sustainability projects and initiatives. Understanding their approach will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals during interviews.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the sustainability field, especially those who have worked with or for Sheppard Robson. Personal connections can provide valuable insights and potentially advocate for your application.

✨Tip Number 3

Stay updated on the latest trends and legislation in sustainable design and construction. Being knowledgeable about current issues will demonstrate your commitment to the field and your ability to lead effectively.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully implemented sustainability strategies in past roles. Concrete examples will showcase your leadership skills and your ability to drive change.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Sustainability

Sustainable Design Principles
Leadership Skills
Interpersonal Communication
Organizational Skills
Time Management
Team Management
Climate Change Mitigation Knowledge
Environmental Certification Systems (BREEAM, WELL, LEED)
Sustainability Strategy Development
Project Management
Public Speaking
Presentation Skills
Sustainability Legislation Knowledge
Energy Modelling and Analysis Tools
Post-Occupancy Evaluation Experience

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Head of Sustainability position at Sheppard Robson. Familiarize yourself with their sustainability agenda and how your experience aligns with their goals.

Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, emphasize your design or engineering background in the construction industry. Showcase your proven leadership and team management experience, particularly in sustainability initiatives and strategies.

Demonstrate Communication Skills: Since excellent interpersonal and communication skills are essential for this role, make sure to illustrate your ability to influence positive change. Include examples of public speaking or presentations you've delivered related to sustainability.

Showcase Technical Expertise: Detail your knowledge of sustainable design principles and practices, as well as any experience with environmental certification systems like BREEAM, WELL, or LEED. This will demonstrate your technical expertise and commitment to sustainability.

How to prepare for a job interview at Sheppard Robson

✨Show Your Passion for Sustainability

Make sure to express your genuine passion for sustainability during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've championed sustainable practices in your previous roles and how you envision driving the sustainability agenda at Sheppard Robson.

✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills

As this is a senior leadership position, be prepared to discuss your leadership style and experiences. Highlight instances where you've successfully led teams or projects, particularly in the context of sustainability initiatives.

✨Engage with Technical Expertise

Be ready to discuss your technical knowledge of sustainable design principles and environmental certification systems like BREEAM or LEED. This will showcase your ability to provide strategic input on projects and influence positive change.

✨Prepare for Public Speaking Scenarios

Since the role involves representing the practice at external events, practice articulating your thoughts on sustainability topics clearly and confidently. Prepare to discuss current trends in climate change mitigation and how they relate to the architectural industry.

Head of Sustainability
Sheppard Robson
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  • Head of Sustainability

    London
    Full-Time
    43200 - 72000 £ / year (est.)

    Application deadline: 2027-03-10

  • S

    Sheppard Robson

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