At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead sustainability strategies and support clients in their transition to net zero.
- Company: Join Lloyds Banking Group, a leader in sustainability and inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous pension contributions, and 30 days holiday.
- Other info: Be part of a values-led culture focused on diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainability in key sectors while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Deep understanding of sustainability trends and strong relationship-building skills.
We support flexible working – click here for more information on flexible working options.
Flexible Working Options: Hybrid Working, Job Share.
About This Opportunity:
The Director, Sustainability Advisory, will play a pivotal role in deepening client relationships and providing strategic sustainability insight to accelerate the transition journeys of Higher Education, Charities, and Professional & Business Services clients. Working within the Services & Public Sector (S&PS) team, the role employs Lloyds Banking Group’s (LBG) market‑leading ESG capabilities and regional presence to unlock commercial opportunities and support clients’ progress towards sustainable growth. It also champions our own sustainability performance, ensuring our commitments and actions resonate with clients who value both our advisory expertise and our organisational journey. This is a 12-month fixed term contract opportunity.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Sector Leadership & Client Partnership: Develop and deliver sector-specific sustainability strategies for Higher Education, Charities, Professional & Business Services and other relevant sectors. Advise clients with leading insight on sustainability, ESG and climate themes, supporting credible pathways to net zero. Partner with clients and sector leaders to embed sustainability into business models, addressing themes such as biodiversity, resilience and social impact while shaping new product and proposition opportunities. Co‑design impactful sustainability initiatives and programmes with clients, employing Lloyds’ expertise to improve outcomes and strengthen commercial relationships. Represent Lloyds at industry forums and cross‑sector initiatives, promoting best practice and positioning the bank as a thought leader.
- Origination & Execution: Work closely with Coverage to understand client needs, market dynamics and support delivery of BAU financing targets. Originate and deliver sustainability‑linked transactions and ESG financing opportunities, collaborating with product partners to develop tailored solutions. Play a key role in sustainability‑focused pitches and RFP responses, where ESG performance is a critical differentiator. Drive commercial opportunity generation across sustainability‑linked lending, green bonds and ESG advisory services. Be responsible for high‑quality marketing materials and thought leadership that elevate LBG’s sustainability positioning.
- Customer & Collaborator Engagement: Build strong and positive relationships with clients, internal & external partners and sector bodies, representing LBG with credibility at internal and external events. Mentor and support colleagues, fostering a culture of collaboration and high ethical standards.
- Governance & Risk: Ensure strong governance and risk management across all activities, proactively identifying and mitigating conduct and compliance risks. Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of sustainability‑related regulations, frameworks and standards.
- Regional Impact: Utilise Lloyds’ UK regional footprint to tailor sustainability solutions and partnership opportunities to local market needs.
What You’ll Need:
- Deep understanding of sustainability, ESG, and climate change trends across sectors, with a proven track record in sustainable finance or technical sustainability roles.
- Experience in developing and implementing sector strategies, ideally within Higher Education, Charities, or Professional & Business Services.
- Strong commercial foresight, with the ability to identify and deliver new business opportunities that align sustainability with growth.
- Excellent relationship building and communication skills, able to influence at senior levels and represent the bank externally.
- Knowledge of relevant sustainability frameworks and regulations (e.g., Green & Sustainability Linked Loan Principles, TCFD, EU Taxonomy, ISSB, CSRD).
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively, mentor others, and drive continual improvement.
- A growth mindset, high ethical standards, and a passion for sustainability.
Why Join Us?
Shape the sustainability agenda for some of the UK's most influential sectors, contributing directly to helping Britain prosper. Work in a values‑led, inclusive environment with opportunities for growth and development. Play a central role in advancing Lloyds Banking Group’s sustainability ambitions while enabling clients on their journey to a more sustainable future.
About Working For Us:
Our ambition is to be the leading UK business for diversity, equity and inclusion supporting our customers, colleagues and communities and we’re committed to creating an environment in which everyone can thrive, learn and develop. We were one of the first major organisations to set goals on diversity in senior roles, create a menopause health package, and a dedicated Working with Cancer Initiative. We offer reasonable workplace adjustments for colleagues with disabilities, including flexibility in office attendance, location and working patterns. And, as a Disability Confident Leader, we guarantee interviews for a fair and proportionate number of applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role with a disability, long‑term health or neurodivergent condition through the Disability Confident Scheme. We provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process to reduce or remove barriers. Just let us know what you need. We also offer a wide‑ranging benefits package, which includes:
- A generous pension contribution of up to 15%
- An annual performance‑related bonus
- Share schemes including free shares
- Benefits you can adapt to your lifestyle, such as discounted shopping
- 30 days’ holiday, with bank holidays on top
- A range of wellbeing initiatives and generous parental leave policies
If you’re excited by the thought of becoming part of our team, get in touch. We’d love to hear from you. At Lloyds Banking Group, we're driven by a clear purpose; to help Britain prosper. Across the Group, our colleagues are focused on making a difference to customers, businesses and communities. With us you'll have a key role to play in shaping the financial services of the future, whilst the scale and reach of our Group means you'll have many opportunities to learn, grow and develop.
We're focused on creating a values‑led culture and are committed to building a workforce which reflects the diversity of the customers and communities we serve. Together we’re building a truly inclusive workplace where all of our colleagues have the opportunity to make a real difference.
Director, Sustainability Advisory - S&PS (12-month fixed term contract) employer: Lloyds Banking Group
Lloyds Banking Group is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment in London where you can shape the sustainability agenda for key sectors. With a strong commitment to employee growth, flexible working options, and a comprehensive benefits package including generous pension contributions and wellbeing initiatives, you'll find meaningful opportunities to advance your career while making a positive impact on society. Join us to be part of a values-led organisation that prioritises diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring everyone can thrive and contribute to a sustainable future.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director, Sustainability Advisory - S&PS (12-month fixed term contract)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the sustainability sector. Attend industry events, webinars, or even local meetups. The more you engage, the better your chances of landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare to discuss your insights on sustainability trends and how they relate to the sectors mentioned in the job description. Being able to articulate your thoughts clearly can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. Focus on common questions related to sustainability and client engagement. This will help you feel more confident and ready to impress during the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application, so make sure you submit it directly on our platform. It’s the best way to ensure your details reach the right people and get noticed.
We think you need these skills to ace Director, Sustainability Advisory - S&PS (12-month fixed term contract)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Director, Sustainability Advisory role. Highlight your experience in sustainability, ESG, and client partnerships, as these are key to the position.
Showcase Your Expertise:Don’t hold back on demonstrating your knowledge of sustainability frameworks and regulations. We want to see how you can apply this expertise to help our clients transition towards sustainable growth.
Be Authentic:Let your passion for sustainability shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who genuinely cares about making a difference, so share your journey and what drives you in this field.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our official website. This way, we can easily track your application and get back to you quicker!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lloyds Banking Group
✨Know Your Sustainability Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in sustainability, ESG, and climate change. Familiarise yourself with relevant frameworks like the Green & Sustainability Linked Loan Principles and TCFD. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're genuinely passionate about the role.
✨Tailor Your Approach
Research the specific sectors you'll be working with, such as Higher Education and Charities. Prepare examples of how you've developed and implemented sustainability strategies in these areas. This will help you connect your experience to the needs of the clients you'll be advising.
✨Build Relationships
Since this role involves a lot of client interaction, think about how you can showcase your relationship-building skills. Prepare anecdotes that highlight your ability to influence at senior levels and collaborate effectively with various stakeholders. Remember, it's all about making those connections!
✨Show Your Growth Mindset
Be ready to discuss how you've mentored others and driven continual improvement in your previous roles. Highlight your passion for sustainability and your commitment to ethical standards. This will resonate well with the values of the company and show that you're a great fit for their culture.
