At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead climate action initiatives and develop sustainability strategies for Lambeth.
- Company: Join Lambeth Council, a vibrant community-focused organisation in South London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, diverse work environment, and opportunities for impactful community engagement.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in tackling climate change and shaping a sustainable future.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership skills and experience in climate policy and community engagement.
The predicted salary is between 73266 - 73266 £ per year.
Starting salary £73,266 per annum, incl LW, rising to £78,090
Fixed Term / Secondment: 1 Year
Full Time: 35 hours
About Us
Located in the heart of South London, Lambeth Borough is a vibrant community of over 317,600 residents. Stretching from the dynamic neighbourhood of Streatham in the South to the iconic landmarks of Waterloo in the North, we are proud to be the 9th largest borough in London. Our diversity is our strength, with more than 130 languages spoken, making Lambeth the home of the Windrush generation, London's largest LGBTQ+ community, and a thriving Portuguese-speaking community. It is an exciting time to join Lambeth Council, we have bold ambitions for the future of Lambeth’s communities and residents through our Lambeth 2030 Plan ‘Our Future, Our Lambeth’. With exceptional schools, lush green spaces including Brockwell Park, cultural gems like the Black Cultural Archives, and world-renowned institutions such as St Thomas's Hospital, Lambeth offers an enriching and dynamic environment.
About the Team
Lambeth’s dynamic Climate Change and Sustainability team draws from a range of disciplines including architects, engineers, data analysts, economists, etc. Working closely with colleagues across the council, we play a key role in delivering the 2030 Borough Plan, through Lambeth’s Climate Action Plan and Corporate Carbon Reduction Plan.
Key Contributions
- Developing strategy (climate action plan, air quality, adaptation) and policy on strategic infrastructure (energy, water, heat networks);
- Obtaining funding and supporting on the delivery of capital projects (housing, schools, public realm);
- Decision‑making and procurement: Supporting colleagues across the council on sustainable procurement and operations;
- Convening: We work with external partners within the borough through the Lambeth Climate Partnership to collectively deliver our climate goals.
About the Role
We are looking for a highly motivated individual to lead the team, helping to deliver outcomes in line with the Climate Action Plan and Corporate Carbon Reduction Plan. You will develop effective partnerships, work closely with the community and key stakeholders, provide leadership on climate across the council and expert advice to senior leaders.
Responsibilities
- Provide the Council’s principal expertise on climate and sustainability, policy and programmes;
- Take responsibility for producing the council’s climate and sustainability policies in partnership with stakeholders and communities;
- Devise, design and deliver a programme of effective projects relevant to the borough’s different communities and neighbourhoods;
- Establish strong internal and external partnerships, leading liaison with officers from across the council and partner agencies;
- Provide a visible senior point of contact into the Council, representing the Council at a borough, regional, national and international level.
How to Apply
To be considered for interview, your CV and supporting statement will clearly evidence how you meet the shortlisting criteria on the personal specification marked “A” for application. We operate an anonymised application process, so be sure to remove personal details when uploading your CV or personal statement.
Contact Information
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Simon Phillips, Assistant Director Climate Change and Strategic Transport. You will be required to undertake a Cifas check. Further information about Cifas can be found here.
Recruitment Timelines
Closing Date: Sunday 5th July 2026 @ 11:55pm
At Lambeth, we are dedicated to providing quality services and equal opportunities for all. We are committed to safer recruitment and are proud to be a Stonewall diversity champion, a Living Wage Employer, and to guarantee interviews for all disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria of the role.
Head of Climate Change & Sustainability in London employer: Lambeth Council
Lambeth Council is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that champions diversity and community engagement in the heart of South London. With a commitment to sustainability and climate action, employees have the opportunity to lead impactful projects while benefiting from professional growth and development within a supportive environment. The council's dedication to equal opportunities and its status as a Living Wage Employer further enhance its appeal as a meaningful workplace for those passionate about making a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Climate Change & Sustainability in London
✨Dive into Environmental Networks
Get involved with sustainability-focused organisations and attend their events. Look for local meetups or conferences in environmental management where you can connect with professionals in the field. This can lead to insider info on job openings at companies like Lambeth Council that might not be advertised widely.
✨Show Your Passion with Projects
Consider undertaking personal or community projects that highlight your dedication to sustainability. Whether it's a local clean-up or a carbon footprint assessment, document your findings and results. This not only boosts your portfolio but also shows potential employers like Lambeth Council that you're proactive and serious about the field.
✨Seek Out Green Job Boards
Don’t just rely on general job boards. Explore specific platforms that focus on sustainability and environmental management roles. Websites like EnvironmentJobs and Sustainable Business can be goldmines for full-time positions at companies like Lambeth Council. Keep an eye out for their aggregation of listings!
✨Let Your Online Presence Shine
Make sure your social media and professional profiles reflect your passion for sustainability. Share articles, engage in discussions, and connect with leaders in the field. Your active presence can make a lasting impression on hiring managers at companies like Lambeth Council when they search for candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Climate Change & Sustainability in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Sustainability:In your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for sustainability shine through. Share any relevant experiences, like projects, volunteer work, or events you've participated in that align with Lambeth Council's values. This position isn't just about meeting qualifications; it's about genuinely caring for the environment and showing us why you're the right fit for Head of Climate Change & Sustainability.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications and Experience:Make sure to showcase any specific qualifications, such as degrees in environmental science or certifications in sustainability practices in your CV. We want to see how your academic background and practical experiences align with the job you're applying for, so don’t hold back on anything that demonstrates your expertise in environmental management.
Tailor Your CV to the Role:As we're looking for someone to jump into a full-time role, be specific about previous roles or projects that demonstrate your capabilities in sustainability. Use bullet points to make accomplishments clear, and don’t forget to quantify your achievements wherever possible – it’s all about showing us the impact of your work!
Research Lambeth Council and Reflect It In Your Application:We love candidates who take the time to understand what we're about. Mention specific initiatives or projects that Lambeth Council is known for in your cover letter. This shows us that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely excited about the chance to contribute to our mission in the role of Head of Climate Change & Sustainability.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lambeth Council
✨Brush Up on Environmental Legislation
Given that we're diving into sustainability and environmental management, it’s crucial to have a solid understanding of current environmental laws and regulations. Be prepared to discuss how these laws apply to real-world scenarios, as you might face some technical questions about compliance and best practices during your chat with Lambeth Council.
✨Showcase Your Experience with Sustainability Projects
When you're discussing your background, highlight specific sustainability initiatives you've been involved in. Whether it’s a project at university or work experience, sharing measurable outcomes and your role will demonstrate your hands-on skills, which is super important for this full-time role at Lambeth Council.
✨Familiarity with Tools and Software
Make sure you're familiar with any relevant tools or software commonly used in environmental management, like GIS for mapping or data analysis tools. Bring this up in your interview as it shows you’re not only passionate but also prepared to roll up your sleeves and get to work!
✨Connect Your Values with the Company's Mission
Full-time roles are all about team fit, so it’s important to align your personal values with those of Lambeth Council. Be ready to discuss why you're passionate about sustainability and how you can contribute to their mission, as this will really resonate with the interviewers and show that you’re genuinely invested in their goals.
