Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead sustainability initiatives and drive environmental excellence across UK operations.
- Company: OCU, a leader in sustainability within the UK's infrastructure and utilities sectors.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainability and influence change at a national level.
- Qualifications: Degree in Environmental Science or related field, with extensive ISO 14001 experience.
- Other info: Join a values-driven company that prioritises inclusion and community impact.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Are you ready to shape the future of sustainability across a major UK operation? At OCU, sustainability isn’t a side project; it’s fundamental to how we operate, grow, and deliver for our clients and communities. We are proud to be at the forefront of environmental responsibility across the UK’s infrastructure and utilities sectors, and we’re now looking for an exceptional Head of Sustainability & Environment to help drive our ambition even further, based in Stockport or Borehamwood - hybrid working and travel UK wide.
Working closely with the Group Sustainability Director and senior UK leadership teams, you’ll ensure compliance, inspire innovation, and place sustainability at the heart of how OCU wins work, delivers projects, and leaves a positive legacy.
About the role
As the Head of Sustainability & Environment, you will act as a strategic leader, trusted advisor, and passionate advocate for sustainability across the UK business. A senior leadership role, offering the opportunity to influence real change at scale. You’ll lead the development and delivery of our UK Sustainability Action Plan, embedding environmental excellence, social responsibility, and long‑term sustainable growth across all UK operations and projects.
- Chairing the UK Sustainability Taskforce, providing clear governance, accountability, and momentum.
- Leading UK ESG and sustainability reporting, supported by robust digital systems and aligned with Group and client requirements.
- Owning and delivering the UK decarbonisation plan, aligned with OCU’s Science‑Based Targets and long‑term climate commitments.
- Leading, developing, and inspiring a high‑performing team of sustainability and environmental professionals.
- Partnering with operational and commercial leaders to ensure projects and contracts are appropriately resourced for sustainability success.
- Developing and continually improving the UK Environmental Management System, maintaining ISO 14001 compliance and Group standards.
- Building strong external relationships with regulators and stakeholders including the EA, SEPA, DEFRA, and relevant NGOs.
About you
- You are a credible, influential sustainability leader who combines technical excellence with a genuine passion for making a difference.
- Practitioner (or higher) membership of the Institute of Sustainability & Environmental Professionals (ISEP).
- A degree in Environmental Science, Sustainability, or a related discipline.
- Extensive experience implementing, managing, and auditing ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems.
- A proven track record of developing and delivering sustainability and decarbonisation strategies.
- Strong leadership and influencing skills, with the confidence to engage at all levels.
- A coaching and mentoring mindset, committed to developing high‑performing teams.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present to senior stakeholders.
- A structured, analytical, and solutions‑focused approach.
- A genuine commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable growth.
Driven by values, powered by inclusion. At OCU, our values guide everything we do: integrity, collaboration, respect, innovation and one company united. They shape how we work with our clients, communities, and each other. We believe that inclusion is more than a principle — it’s the foundation of our success. By embracing equity and ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to thrive, we create a workplace where diverse perspectives are valued, and everyone feels they belong.
Together, we build stronger teams, deliver better outcomes, and grow in ways that reflect the communities we serve. If you want to be part of a culture where values matter and inclusion is at the heart of everything we do, apply now and help us shape the future together.
If you are invited to progress in the recruitment process, will you require any reasonable adjustments to support you? Please let us know so we can ensure the process is accessible and fair for you. Any information you share will be treated confidentially and will only be used to support you during the recruitment process.
Head of Sustainability & Environment in Borehamwood employer: OCU
Contact Detail:
OCU Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Sustainability & Environment in Borehamwood
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the sustainability field, attend industry events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. The more connections we make, the better our chances of landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for sustainability! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your ideas and experiences related to environmental initiatives. Let them see how committed we are to making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching OCU’s sustainability projects and values. We want to demonstrate that we understand their mission and can contribute to their goals. Tailor our responses to align with their vision!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, it shows we’re genuinely interested in being part of the OCU team and their commitment to sustainability.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Sustainability & Environment in Borehamwood
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Sustainability: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for sustainability shine through! We want to see how your values align with ours and how you can contribute to our mission of making a positive impact.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in sustainability and environmental management. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead and innovate in this field, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise: While we love a good story, keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to convey your ideas and ensure your key achievements stand out. We appreciate clarity as much as creativity!
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 the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at OCU
✨Know Your Sustainability Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and regulations in sustainability, especially those relevant to the UK infrastructure and utilities sectors. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with OCU's commitment to environmental responsibility.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a senior role, they’ll want to see your leadership style in action. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past, particularly in developing and delivering sustainability strategies.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Think about potential challenges OCU might face in their sustainability efforts and how you would address them. This could include compliance issues or stakeholder engagement. Being able to demonstrate your problem-solving skills will set you apart.
✨Emphasise Your Values
OCU values integrity, collaboration, and inclusion. Be prepared to discuss how these values resonate with you and how you've embodied them in your previous roles. This will show that you're not just a fit for the job, but also for the company culture.
