Principal Consultant - International ESIA and Project Finance in London
Principal Consultant - International ESIA and Project Finance

Principal Consultant - International ESIA and Project Finance in London

London Full-Time 60000 - 80000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Erm

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead impactful environmental assessments and advise clients on sustainability standards.
  • Company: Join ERM, a global leader in sustainability consulting.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, professional growth, and a supportive work environment.
  • Other info: Inclusive workplace with opportunities for mentorship and career development.
  • Why this job: Shape major projects and drive positive change in the Middle East.
  • Qualifications: Degree in Environmental Science or related field; consultancy experience preferred.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.

ERM is recruiting an Environmental & Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) & Project Finance Principal Consultant to join our Project Finance team in the UK. This senior position plays a central role in delivering high-quality ESIA work, advising clients on international standards, and driving business growth.

Role Overview

The ESIA CD will oversee and deliver complex environmental and social impact assessments across multiple sectors, including major infrastructure, energy, and industrial projects. The role requires deep knowledge of environmental and social impact assessment, the IFC Performance Standards, the Equator Principles, and the practical application of lenders’ environmental and social requirements. As a leader in the team, you will also be responsible for developing client relationships, generating new business, and contributing to the strategic growth of ERM’s impact assessment practice in the Middle East.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the preparation, management, and delivery of Environmental & Social Impact Assessments in line with Saudi regulations and international lender standards.
  • Provide expert guidance on IFC Performance Standards, Equator Principles, and other international E&S frameworks.
  • Oversee environmental and social impact assessments, stakeholder engagement planning, and environmental and socio-economic baseline studies.
  • Advise clients on lender expectations, project risk management, and pathways to achieving bankable E&S performance.
  • Manage multidisciplinary project teams and ensure technical excellence across all deliverables.
  • Engage with regulators, lenders, developers, and government stakeholders to support project approvals and financing.
  • Drive business development by identifying opportunities, preparing proposals, and expanding ERM’s client network.
  • Build long-term client relationships and act as a trusted advisor on environmental and social performance.
  • Mentor junior consultants and contribute to capability development within the regional team.

What You Bring

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Social Sciences, Sustainability, or a related field.
  • Strong technical understanding of environmental and social impact assessment methodologies and socio-economic analysis.
  • Demonstrated experience applying IFC Performance Standards, Equator Principles, and other lender requirements on major projects.
  • Proven consultancy background with experience delivering ESIA projects for private-sector and/or government clients.
  • Track record of business development, including winning work, building client relationships, and contributing to revenue growth.
  • Experience working in the Middle East or on projects in emerging markets.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to produce high-quality reports and present to senior stakeholders.

Ideal Profile

  • Experience across sectors such as energy, infrastructure, mining, industrial development, or real estate.
  • Ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects with competing priorities.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative, solutions-oriented approach.

What This Role Offers

  • A leadership position within a global sustainability consultancy with a strong regional footprint.
  • The opportunity to influence major development projects across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
  • A platform to grow ERM’s ESIA practice and shape the future of environmental and social performance in the region.
  • A dynamic, supportive environment with opportunities for professional growth and regional impact.

ERM is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. We welcome talent from all backgrounds and provide equal opportunities for every candidate. If you have a disability, are neurodivergent, or need accommodations during the selection process, we’re here to support you.

Principal Consultant - International ESIA and Project Finance in London employer: Erm

ERM is an exceptional employer, offering a leadership role in a global sustainability consultancy that prioritises professional growth and regional impact. With a commitment to inclusivity and a supportive work culture, employees are empowered to thrive while influencing major development projects across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The company fosters long-term client relationships and provides opportunities for mentorship, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in environmental and social performance.
Erm

Contact Detail:

Erm Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Principal Consultant - International ESIA and Project Finance in London

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that Principal Consultant gig.

✨Tip Number 2

Showcase your expertise! Prepare to discuss your experience with ESIA and project finance in detail during interviews. We want to hear about your successes and how you’ve tackled challenges in previous roles.

✨Tip Number 3

Be proactive! Don’t wait for job openings to appear. Reach out directly to companies like ERM through our website and express your interest in potential opportunities. It shows initiative and can set you apart from the crowd.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare for behavioural questions! Think of examples that highlight your leadership skills and ability to manage complex projects. We want to see how you handle real-world scenarios, especially in multi-stakeholder environments.

We think you need these skills to ace Principal Consultant - International ESIA and Project Finance in London

Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA)
IFC Performance Standards
Equator Principles
Stakeholder Engagement
Project Risk Management
Business Development
Client Relationship Management
Technical Excellence
Socio-Economic Analysis
Multidisciplinary Project Management
Excellent Written and Verbal Communication Skills
Experience in Emerging Markets
Interpersonal Skills
Collaborative Approach

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with Environmental & Social Impact Assessments. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant projects!

Showcase Your Expertise: When writing your application, emphasise your knowledge of IFC Performance Standards and Equator Principles. We’re looking for someone who can demonstrate a strong understanding of these frameworks, so make it clear how you’ve applied them in past roles.

Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, especially when it comes to complex topics like ESIA. Use bullet points where possible to make your achievements stand out!

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!

How to prepare for a job interview at Erm

✨Know Your ESIA Inside Out

Make sure you have a solid grasp of Environmental & Social Impact Assessment methodologies and the IFC Performance Standards. Brush up on recent projects you've worked on and be ready to discuss how you applied these standards in real-world scenarios.

✨Showcase Your Business Development Skills

Prepare examples of how you've successfully built client relationships and contributed to revenue growth. Think about specific instances where you identified opportunities or prepared winning proposals, as this will demonstrate your ability to drive business development.

✨Engage with Stakeholder Management

Be ready to talk about your experience managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects. Highlight your approach to stakeholder engagement and how you've navigated competing priorities to achieve project goals.

✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently

Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, especially when discussing technical concepts. Prepare to present high-quality reports or findings from past projects, as strong communication skills are crucial for this role.

Principal Consultant - International ESIA and Project Finance in London
Erm
Location: London

Land your dream job quicker with Premium

You’re marked as a top applicant with our partner companies
Individual CV and cover letter feedback including tailoring to specific job roles
Be among the first applications for new jobs with our AI application
1:1 support and career advice from our career coaches
Go Premium

Money-back if you don't land a job in 6-months

>