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- Tasks: Lead impactful sustainability projects and develop strategies for clients.
- Company: Luminous is a strategic advisory agency focused on sustainability and impact, based in London.
- Benefits: Enjoy a collaborative culture, mentorship opportunities, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Why this job: Join a growing team dedicated to sustainability, with a focus on meaningful impact and client relationships.
- Qualifications: 8-10 years in sustainability, with experience in ESG frameworks and project management.
- Other info: Be part of a mission-driven company that values respect, kindness, and shared ambition.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Job Description
Sustainability & Impact Principal
About Sustainability & Impact at Luminous
Luminous is a strategic advisory and communications agency based in London and working with clients around the world. We have been building the Sustainability & Impact (S&I) offer in recent years, moving from a solid base of award-winning reporting to a diversified suite of services, including materiality assessments, strategy development, implementation and internal engagement. We are now an established team of four with a growing pipeline and an enviable client list and expect to double revenue over the next couple of years. To support this growth, we are seeking a strategic senior hire, in the role of Sustainability & Impact Principal.
Role Summary
As Sustainability & Impact Principal, you will play a pivotal role within our strategy team, working closely with the Director of Sustainability & Impact to shape and deliver impactful sustainability projects and relationships. You will lead the development and execution of our Sustainability & Impact offer – from conducting materiality assessments and crafting sustainability strategies to delivering high-quality reports and supporting internal transformation projects.
This is a client-facing, hands-on role where your deep technical expertise in ESG reporting, issue management, materiality, and transition planning will be critical. You combine strategic thinking with an eye for detail and the ability to communicate and influence effectively at all levels of an organisation.
Key Responsibilities
Consultancy and Subject Matter Expertise
You are an experienced sustainability advisor, confident leading our most complex and strategic projects. You thrive in client settings—guiding conversations, shaping outcomes, and building trust. You demonstrate resilience and professionalism, even in challenging scenarios.
- Advise clients on alignment with leading sustainability and ESG frameworks (GRI, ISSB, SASB, TCFD, CSRD), offering tailored, actionable guidance.
- Lead the development of high-quality sustainability reports, transition plans, materiality assessments, and ESG strategies.
- Deliver internal transformation projects that embed sustainability into the core of business operations and culture.
- Track and interpret emerging sustainability trends, offering strategic insights to clients and internal teams on issues such as climate change, regulation, and stakeholder expectations.
Team development and Practice Growth
You bring a commercial and collaborative mindset, helping strengthen our Sustainability & Impact offer and supporting the professional development of others.
- Partner with the Director of Sustainability & Impact to shape the strategic direction and growth of the practice.
- Provide day-to-day support and mentorship to team members, ensuring delivery against project scope, budget, and timelines.
- Act as a knowledge leader, sharing insights and best practices across the wider business.
New Business and Marketing
You are a confident communicator, skilled in identifying opportunities and positioning Luminous as a leader in the sustainability space.
- Lead client pitches and presentations to win new business.
- Contribute to the development of thought leadership—blogs, podcasts, and research—enhancing the visibility of our expertise.
- Identify opportunities to cross-sell the broader Luminous offer, helping to build integrated client relationships.
Skills, experience, attributes
- 8-10 years’ experience in sustainability, with either recent experience in a senior-level role or ready to take that next step
- Team or programme management experience
- In-depth knowledge of industry standards and frameworks such as the CSRD, GRI Standards, ISSB, TCFD, UNGC, and UN SDGs
- Experience delivering materiality assessments, sustainability strategies, and transition plans
- Proactive with meeting your targets, tracking budgets against project progress and delivery where required
- You are passionate about the work you do, taking immense pride in delivering work to a high standard and strive to give the best customer service
- You are positive, friendly and a team player who can help motivate colleagues and inspire others around you
- You have a can-do attitude with the ability to multi-task across different projects
- You can work both autonomously and as part of a team, being organised and possessing great attention to detail, to deliver the highest standards of output while working across multiple projects
- You are attentive and committed to clients’ needs, can be flexible in approach and always offer solutions to problems
Living our Values
At Luminous, the work we do matters. It has meaning, impact and builds belief. Our people are united by our common purpose and want to make a difference in business and society. They aspire to do their best work and be proud of what they achieve.
Our culture is a conscious choice and built around shared values and behaviours. We celebrate individual strengths and perspectives but together we are connected by a shared ambition, mutual respect, and kindness. We know what we stand for and what we want to be known for.
The whole company works to a clear set of values and behaviours that determine the way we do things. You can find these here
Sustainability & Impact Principal employer: Luminous
Contact Detail:
Luminous Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Sustainability & Impact Principal
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the sustainability sector. Attend industry events, webinars, and conferences to meet potential colleagues and clients. Building relationships can give you insights into the role and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on the latest trends and regulations in sustainability and ESG frameworks. Being knowledgeable about current issues will not only prepare you for interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific projects you've led or contributed to that align with the responsibilities of the Sustainability & Impact Principal role. Highlight your experience in materiality assessments and strategy development during conversations.
✨Tip Number 4
Practice your communication skills, especially in client-facing scenarios. Role-play potential interview questions with a friend or mentor to refine your ability to articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently.
We think you need these skills to ace Sustainability & Impact Principal
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Sustainability & Impact Principal position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, so you can tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your experience in sustainability and ESG reporting. Emphasise your achievements in leading complex projects, conducting materiality assessments, and developing sustainability strategies that align with industry standards.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for sustainability and your strategic mindset. Use specific examples from your past work to demonstrate how you can contribute to Luminous's growth and success in the Sustainability & Impact sector.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, make sure to highlight your knowledge of sustainability frameworks (like GRI, TCFD, etc.) and your ability to communicate effectively at all levels. Mention any experience in team development and client engagement to show you are a well-rounded candidate.
How to prepare for a job interview at Luminous
✨Showcase Your Expertise
As a candidate for the Sustainability & Impact Principal role, it's crucial to demonstrate your deep technical knowledge in ESG reporting and sustainability frameworks. Be prepared to discuss specific projects you've led, focusing on your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
✨Engage with Real-World Examples
During the interview, use real-world examples to illustrate how you've successfully guided clients through complex sustainability challenges. This will not only showcase your experience but also highlight your ability to build trust and influence stakeholders.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Highlight your experience in team development and mentorship. Discuss how you've supported colleagues in achieving project goals and how you can contribute to the growth of the Sustainability & Impact practice at Luminous.
✨Communicate Your Passion
Luminous values individuals who are passionate about their work. Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for sustainability and your commitment to delivering high-quality results. Share what drives you in this field and how you align with the company's mission and values.
