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- Tasks: Lead the sustainability strategy and manage a diverse team in a high-profile role.
- Company: Join a leading international financial institution committed to responsible finance.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, a completion bonus, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Shape sustainability practices while working with visionary leaders in a global context.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in sustainability leadership within banking; Master's degree preferred.
- Other info: This is a fixed-term contract with an immediate start for maternity cover.
The predicted salary is between 129000 - 186000 £ per year.
Are you a passionate sustainability leader ready to make an immediate impact at the executive level? Our client, a leading international financial institution, is seeking an accomplished Interim Chief Sustainability Officer to drive its ambitious sustainability agenda during a key period of maternity cover.
About the Opportunity
This is a high-profile, fixed-term role (12–18 months) reporting directly to the UK Chief Executive Officer and working closely with the Group CEO. You will steer the group’s sustainability strategy, oversee a multi-country team, and ensure the organisation remains at the forefront of sustainable finance and responsible business practices.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and execute the group-wide sustainability strategy, aligning with global objectives and regulatory requirements.
- Manage and mentor a small and diverse sustainability team, fostering collaboration and high performance.
- Support the development and delivery of sustainable finance products and services, working closely with business and product teams.
- Oversee the Sustainable Finance Register and monitor group-wide sustainability KPIs.
- Lead all sustainability-related reporting and disclosures, including regulatory and voluntary frameworks (e.g., S&P CSA, ISSB, Principles for Responsible Banking).
- Chair and support governance committees, including the Board Sustainability & Climate Change Committee and Sustainability Council.
- Champion sustainability training and stakeholder engagement across the business.
- Ensure best-in-class sustainability frameworks, policies, and methodologies are in place and continuously improved.
What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience in a senior sustainability or ESG leadership role within the Banking Sector.
- Track record of designing and delivering sustainable finance solutions and strategies.
- Strong understanding of sustainability reporting, regulatory frameworks, and risk management.
- Excellent team leadership skills, with experience managing multi-location teams.
- Outstanding communication and influencing abilities; comfortable presenting to executive committees and external stakeholders.
- Analytical, strategic, and solutions-focused mindset.
- Experience in or exposure to the Middle East sustainability landscape is highly desirable.
- Master’s degree in a relevant field and evidence of ongoing professional development.
Fixed-term contract or day rate arrangement, with highly competitive compensation (£150,000–£200,000 base plus completion bonus). Immediate start preferred, with a comprehensive handover from the outgoing CSO.
Why Join?
This is a rare opportunity to shape the sustainability agenda of a business recognised for its commitment to responsible finance and positive global impact. You’ll work alongside visionary leaders and play a pivotal role in advancing sustainable finance across international markets. All applications will be handled in strict confidence.
Seniority level: Director
Employment type: Contract
Job function: Other
Chief Sustainability Officer - Banking employer: Leverton Search
Contact Detail:
Leverton Search Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Sustainability Officer - Banking
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the banking and sustainability sectors. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or local meetups to connect with key players and learn about the latest trends and challenges in sustainable finance.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the specific sustainability initiatives of the financial institution you're applying to. Understanding their current projects and goals will help you tailor your discussions and demonstrate your genuine interest in their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed diverse teams in previous roles. Highlight specific examples where your leadership has driven sustainability initiatives and fostered collaboration.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the regulatory frameworks and reporting standards relevant to the role, such as S&P CSA and ISSB. Being well-versed in these areas will position you as a knowledgeable candidate who can hit the ground running.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Sustainability Officer - Banking
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in sustainability and ESG leadership within the banking sector. Use specific examples that demonstrate your track record in designing and delivering sustainable finance solutions.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for sustainability and outlines how your skills align with the key responsibilities of the role. Mention your experience managing multi-location teams and your understanding of sustainability reporting and regulatory frameworks.
Highlight Leadership Skills: In your application, emphasise your team leadership abilities and provide examples of how you've fostered collaboration and high performance in previous roles. This is crucial for a position that involves managing a diverse sustainability team.
Showcase Communication Skills: Demonstrate your outstanding communication and influencing abilities in your application. Include instances where you've successfully presented to executive committees or engaged with external stakeholders, as this is vital for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Leverton Search
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a Chief Sustainability Officer, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and mentor teams. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully managed diverse teams in the past, focusing on collaboration and high performance.
✨Understand the Regulatory Landscape
Familiarise yourself with sustainability reporting frameworks and regulatory requirements relevant to the banking sector. Be ready to discuss how you have navigated these in previous roles and how you plan to ensure compliance in this position.
✨Communicate Your Vision
Articulate a clear vision for sustainability that aligns with the organisation's goals. Think about how you can influence stakeholders and present your ideas confidently, as you'll be addressing executive committees and external partners.
✨Highlight Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to discuss your analytical approach to sustainability challenges. Share examples of how you've used data to drive decisions and develop sustainable finance solutions, showcasing your strategic mindset.
