At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead sustainability strategy and manage impactful projects across the business.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking brand committed to sustainability and social responsibility.
- Benefits: Hybrid work, competitive salary, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with a focus on collaboration and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in sustainability while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in sustainability strategy and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 ÂŁ per year.
Location: London / North Norfolk / Hybrid
Reporting To: Chief Product Officer
Where We Need Your Help
The Head of Sustainability (Maternity Cover), reporting to the Chief Product Officer and managing the Sustainability Manager, will work across the business to lead the overall sustainability strategy and deliver our ambitious roadmap. You will lead the Sustainability Team to ensure that the sustainability perspective is embedded in everything we do.
What You’ll Do
This is a strategic role that requires a highly operational, hands‑on approach.
- Strategy Oversight & Leadership
- Lead the overall ESG strategy in collaboration with the Chief Product Officer.
- Drive and oversee the delivery of our sustainability critical path, B Corp roadmap, taking accountability for internal and external reporting against key annual and long‑term targets.
- Propose and implement updated approaches to environmental and social impact areas where necessary to maintain our ambition to inspire the industry.
- Coordinate complex cross‑functional projects, such as gathering stakeholder input.
- Build cross‑functional relationships to ensure that all teams take responsibility for sustainability improvements.
- Research
- Conduct research to identify environmental, social and sustainability concerns, interests and issues, and propose and manage topical projects.
- Research best practice and keep abreast of sustainability-leading brands & initiatives.
- Participate in forums designed to instigate collective learning & change.
- Governance, Legislation & Standards
- Maintain a current working knowledge of, and ensure compliance with, all applicable environmental & social laws and regulations.
- Manage a critical path of audits & continuous improvement against voluntary standards.
- Manage relationships with external parties to ensure clear, defined and transparent ways of working.
- Supply Chain & Sourcing
- Work closely with the supply chain team to drive ambitious sustainability standards along our supply chain.
- Develop and implement approaches that move the supply chain beyond compliance.
- Define and rollout ESG requirements and due diligence processes for responsibly sourcing specific materials.
- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I)
- Partner closely with the People & Culture team to champion and embed the DE&I strategy and social topics across the organisation.
- Communications
- Collaborate closely with the Brand Marketing team & external partners to guide sustainability communications.
- Ensure all messaging is accurate, compliant with green claims regulations.
- Drive internal communications planning, reporting and training.
- Budget & Philanthropy
- Take full ownership of the sustainability department's budget and maintain financial documentation.
- Manage charity partnerships and oversee philanthropic donations to maximise positive social impact.
- People Manager
- Coach and develop direct reports, recognise successes and manage performance.
- Ensure fair application of company policies across teams.
- Support team well‑being and work/life balance.
- Lead by example, showcase MV behaviours, competencies and values.
- Empower the team to make decisions and identify learning opportunities.
- Collaborate with People & Culture for complex or sensitive matters.
- Connect & Empower
- Communicate complex sustainability priorities clearly and engagingly to varied audiences.
- Build trusted cross‑functional partnerships and create shared ownership across functions.
- Coach and develop others, strengthening ownership & delivery of sustainability goals.
- Drive & Deliver
- Use evidence, data and questioning to identify root causes, assess risk and validate claims.
- Set ambitious but realistic goals, translate strategy into measurable roadmaps and KPIs, and drive delivery with pace, ownership and high standards.
- Grow & Adapt
- Embrace change, simplify complexity and adapt plans as priorities or legislation evolve.
- Master & Apply
- Bring strong sustainability expertise across ESG strategy, environmental and social impact, responsible sourcing, supply chain transparency, human rights, audits and reporting.
- Maintain knowledge of industry standards such as Positive Luxury Butterfly Mark, Responsible Jewellery Council, Watch & Jewellery Initiative 2030, B Corp Impact Assessment.
- Keep up to date with emerging trends, legislation, frameworks.
To Be Successful at Monica Vinader
- Hands‑on, solutions‑focused, entrepreneurial.
- Collaborate openly with humility and honesty.
- Embrace learning, teaching & personal growth.
- Resilient, adaptable, self‑motivated.
- Speak up when you don’t know and act fast to resolve issues.
Additional Requirements
- Ability to document authorisation to work in the United Kingdom.
- Full UK driving licence required.
- Travel Requirements: Travel between London and Holkham office. Ad‑hoc overseas travel.
Head of Sustainability (14 month Fixed Term Contract) in London employer: Monica Vinader
Contact Detail:
Monica Vinader Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Sustainability (14 month Fixed Term Contract) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the sustainability field, attend industry events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s sustainability initiatives. Show us that you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their goals. Tailor your answers to reflect how your experience aligns with their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for job postings! Apply directly through our website and express your passion for sustainability. A proactive approach can set you apart from other candidates who are just waiting for the right role to pop up.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews with a thank-you note. It’s a simple gesture that shows your appreciation and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Sustainability (14 month Fixed Term Contract) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head of Sustainability role. Highlight your relevant experience in ESG strategy and sustainability initiatives, showing us how you can lead our ambitious roadmap.
Showcase Your Passion: We want to see your enthusiasm for sustainability! Share any personal projects or initiatives you've been involved in that demonstrate your commitment to environmental and social impact.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically so we can easily see how your skills align with the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Monica Vinader
✨Know Your Sustainability Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and regulations in sustainability. Familiarise yourself with ESG strategies and the B Corp roadmap, as these will be key topics during your interview. Being able to discuss current best practices and how they relate to the role will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also passionate about the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Sustainability, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership capabilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past, especially those that required cross-functional collaboration. Highlight your ability to coach and develop others, as well as how you've driven change in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. Think about potential challenges in sustainability initiatives and how you would approach them. This could include managing stakeholder input or navigating compliance issues, so have some real-life examples ready to share.
✨Connect with Their Values
Research Monica Vinader's values and mission, particularly around sustainability and social impact. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their goals. Showing that you understand and resonate with their ethos will set you apart from other candidates.