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 shape the future of environmental responsibility.
- Qualifications: Degree in Environmental Science or related field, with extensive ISO 14001 experience.
- Other info: Join a values-driven company that prioritises inclusion and diverse perspectives.
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 Stockport employer: OCU
Contact Detail:
OCU Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Sustainability & Environment in Stockport
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the sustainability field, attend industry events, and connect with professionals 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
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to express your genuine interest in sustainability. Share your ideas on how you can contribute to their goals and make a real impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s sustainability initiatives. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their values and how you can help them achieve their sustainability action plan.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Sustainability & Environment in Stockport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in sustainability and environmental management. We want to see how your skills align with our mission at OCU, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for sustainability shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who genuinely cares about making a difference, so share any personal projects or initiatives that demonstrate your commitment to environmental stewardship.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the Head of Sustainability & Environment position. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at OCU
✨Know Your Sustainability Stuff
Make sure you’re up to speed with the latest trends and regulations in sustainability. Brush up on OCU’s current initiatives and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around ISO 14001 compliance and decarbonisation strategies.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Sustainability & Environment, you’ll need to demonstrate strong leadership. Prepare examples of how you’ve successfully led teams or projects in the past, particularly in driving sustainability initiatives. Highlight your coaching and mentoring experiences to show you can inspire others.
✨Engage with Their Values
OCU places a strong emphasis on values like integrity, collaboration, and inclusion. Think about how your personal values align with theirs and be ready to share specific examples of how you’ve embodied these principles in your work.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement
You’ll be working with various stakeholders, so practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently. Prepare to discuss how you would build relationships with regulators and NGOs, and think of strategies to engage operational and commercial leaders in sustainability efforts.
