Human Rights & Sustainability Counsel

Human Rights & Sustainability Counsel

Full-Time 80000 - 100000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
ABB

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead human rights initiatives and provide legal guidance on sustainability across global operations.
  • Company: ABB, a forward-thinking employer committed to inclusivity and sustainability.
  • Benefits: Hybrid work model, professional growth opportunities, and a chance to make a global impact.
  • Other info: Dynamic international environment with a focus on collaboration and continuous improvement.
  • Why this job: Join a team dedicated to creating a cleaner, smarter future while championing human rights.
  • Qualifications: Master’s in Law with 10+ years of experience in human rights and sustainability.

The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.

This job is with ABB, an inclusive employer and a member of myGwork – the largest global platform for the LGBTQ+ business community. At ABB, we help industries run leaner and cleaner—and every person here makes that happen. You’ll be empowered to lead, supported to grow, and proud of the impact we create together.

This position reports to the Head of Strategy and Sustainability for the Automation Business Area and has a functional reporting line to the Head of Integrity for the Automation Business Area. This role is open globally, with a preferred location in the Middle East, Asia, Africa, or Europe. Work model: hybrid (#LiHybrid)

Key responsibilities:
  • Lead ABB’s Human Rights workstream, including defining strategic priorities and establishing its governance framework in collaboration with the Sustainability Council and related functions.
  • Review and continuously enhance ABB’s Human Rights Policy and Human Rights Due Diligence Frameworks to ensure ongoing alignment with the United Nations Guiding Principles (UNGPs) on Business and Human Rights.
  • Provide strategic guidance across ABB businesses and functions to help identify, assess, manage, and mitigate human rights risks throughout global operations, supply chains, and commercial activities.
  • Assess and strengthen ABB’s Grievance Mechanism and Remedy processes in line with UNGP requirements and best practices.
  • Support engagement with external stakeholders, including investors and NGOs, on human rights-related topics.
  • Act as the central point of contact for Sustainability and ESG legal matters within the Automation Business Area, collaborating closely with Group functions and other Business Areas.
  • Provide strategic legal support on sustainability-related regulatory requirements across Automation divisions, including interpreting evolving regulations and translating them into practical processes and contractual requirements.
  • Serve as the subject matter expert on legal and integrity matters related to sustainability regulations across Automation, providing day-to-day legal advice and guidance to Legal & Integrity colleagues and divisional teams responsible for implementing sustainability requirements.
  • Design and deliver training materials and curricula related to Human Rights and Sustainability regulations.
  • Monitor emerging Human Rights and Sustainability trends, legislation, and regulatory developments, acting as a recognized expert in sustainability law, compliance, and governance.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives and promote best-practice sharing, fostering collaboration across Business Areas and divisions.
Qualifications:
  • Master’s degree in Law, with significant experience and a strong interest in Human Rights and Sustainability-related matters.
  • Minimum of 10 years of professional experience, ideally gained in a global, cross-functional environment, either in-house or within a reputable law firm; experience with a leading management consulting firm (MBB) is considered an advantage.
  • Outstanding negotiation and stakeholder management skills, with a collaborative, transparent, and business-oriented approach grounded in strong legal expertise.
  • Excellent advocacy, communication, and influencing skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to navigate complex, high-pressure situations and balance competing priorities effectively.
  • Fluent in English, with exceptional presentation, relationship-building, and networking capabilities.
  • Highly self-motivated, proactive, and able to work independently in a dynamic international environment.
  • Demonstrates the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, sound judgment, and commitment to quality.

Building a cleaner, smarter future takes all kinds of minds: the curious, the courageous, and the creative. That's why we welcome people from all backgrounds and experiences. Ready to make an impact? Apply today or visit https://www.abb.com to learn more about the impact of our solutions across the globe.

Human Rights & Sustainability Counsel employer: ABB

ABB is an exceptional employer that champions inclusivity and sustainability, offering a dynamic work culture where every employee is empowered to lead and make a meaningful impact. With a strong commitment to professional growth, ABB provides extensive training and development opportunities, particularly in the areas of Human Rights and Sustainability, ensuring that employees can thrive in a supportive environment. Located in diverse regions such as the Middle East, Asia, Africa, or Europe, ABB fosters collaboration across global teams, making it an ideal place for those looking to contribute to a cleaner, smarter future.

ABB

Contact Details:

ABB Recruitment Team

We think you need these skills to ace Human Rights & Sustainability Counsel

Human Rights Expertise
Sustainability Knowledge
Legal Guidance
Stakeholder Management
Negotiation Skills
Regulatory Compliance
Risk Assessment