At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive sustainability initiatives and promote environmental responsibility across our charity's sites.
- Company: Join the Percy Hedley Foundation, a leading charity supporting individuals with learning and physical needs.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days leave, wellbeing support, pension scheme, and discounts on travel and shopping.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and making a difference.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in sustainability while helping vulnerable communities thrive.
- Qualifications: Passion for sustainability and experience in environmental practices.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Percy Hedley Foundation is one of the largest regional charities supporting people with a range of learning and physical needs. We take a person centred, flexible approach to the care and support we provide. We have five sites providing specialist education, adult day services, residential care and independent supported living to our service users. Our sites are based in Forest Hall, Killingworth, Jesmond, Newcastle City Centre and North Shields. We work towards excellence every day and our team members are committed to delivering the very best outcomes for the people we support. Our dynamic and flexible service is tailored to the specific needs of the individual, making it easier to live, learn and be part of a world adapting to change.
The Sustainability specialist will be a key hands‑on role, helping to shape and embed a culture of sustainability working alongside colleagues to drive forward our sustainability agenda. This will involve supporting the organisation’s commitment to environmental responsibility, carbon reduction, energy efficiency, and social value ensuring compliance with legislation and improving performance. Working within the Estates Team, the postholder will work with managers and local service champions helping them to set up sustainability initiatives across the Foundation’s sites, as they engage staff, students, and stakeholders in sustainable practices.
Key duties:
- Identify and respond to emerging environmental risks.
- Support the development of long‑term de‑carbonisation pathways.
- Help to ensure sustainable ways of tracking and disposing of equipment used by front‑line teams.
- Ensure sustainability considerations are integrated into strategic and operational decision making.
- Contribute expert insight to projects, policies, and organisational planning, helping to future‑proof the Foundation’s estates, improve resilience, and enhance environmental performance.
- Work closely with the Foundation’s Health, Safety and Environment manager in setting the annual sustainability plan.
- Act as a key liaison between internal teams, external partners, and regulatory bodies – promoting best practice, strengthening collaboration, and ensuring the Foundation remains aligned with current and future sustainability standards.
- Champion continuous improvement, support innovation, and help deliver meaningful social value outcomes that reflect the Foundation’s mission, values, and commitment to inclusive practice.
If you would like an informal discussion regarding the role, please contact Ashley Tilmouth, Head of Estates and Facilities, by emailing ashley.tilmouth@percyhedley.org.uk.
Why Work for Us:
- 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Loyalty awards starting at 2 years’ service
- Wellbeing support (including occupational health, physio services and counselling services)
- Contributory Pension Scheme
- Induction and ongoing training
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Access to a rewards scheme designed to save money on shopping
- Access to Blue Light Card
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Access to discounted Nexus Travel
- Corporate Pop Card (payments spread over 12 months and deducted from salary each month)
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore applicants should be aware that the post will only be offered to successful candidates subject to an Enhanced DBS and barring checks as well as other employment clearances in line with our regulator’s legislation requirements. Note that this role is classed as regulated activity as it involves working directly with children and/or vulnerable adults. All shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete a criminal records self‑declaration form prior to interview, and all candidates will be subject to an online check prior to interview.
As a disability confident employer who is registered and accredited by the scheme, we would encourage all applications but please reach out if you require any guidance or support in your application.
This advert will close at midnight on Wednesday 1st July.
Sustainability & Energy Specialist in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Percy Hedley Foundation
The Percy Hedley Foundation is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a culture of sustainability while providing meaningful support to individuals with learning and physical needs. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, we offer generous benefits such as 28 days of annual leave, ongoing training, and a supportive work environment that encourages personal and professional growth. Our dynamic team collaborates across multiple sites in the vibrant North East, making a tangible impact on the community and championing innovative practices that align with our mission of inclusivity and excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sustainability & Energy Specialist in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Dive into Environmental Networks
Get involved with sustainability-focused organisations and attend their events. Look for local meetups or conferences in environmental management where you can connect with professionals in the field. This can lead to insider info on job openings at companies like Percy Hedley Foundation that might not be advertised widely.
✨Show Your Passion with Projects
Consider undertaking personal or community projects that highlight your dedication to sustainability. Whether it's a local clean-up or a carbon footprint assessment, document your findings and results. This not only boosts your portfolio but also shows potential employers like Percy Hedley Foundation that you're proactive and serious about the field.
✨Seek Out Green Job Boards
Don’t just rely on general job boards. Explore specific platforms that focus on sustainability and environmental management roles. Websites like EnvironmentJobs and Sustainable Business can be goldmines for full-time positions at companies like Percy Hedley Foundation. Keep an eye out for their aggregation of listings!
✨Let Your Online Presence Shine
Make sure your social media and professional profiles reflect your passion for sustainability. Share articles, engage in discussions, and connect with leaders in the field. Your active presence can make a lasting impression on hiring managers at companies like Percy Hedley Foundation when they search for candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Sustainability & Energy Specialist in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Sustainability:In your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for sustainability shine through. Share any relevant experiences, like projects, volunteer work, or events you've participated in that align with Percy Hedley Foundation's values. This position isn't just about meeting qualifications; it's about genuinely caring for the environment and showing us why you're the right fit for Sustainability & Energy Specialist.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications and Experience:Make sure to showcase any specific qualifications, such as degrees in environmental science or certifications in sustainability practices in your CV. We want to see how your academic background and practical experiences align with the job you're applying for, so don’t hold back on anything that demonstrates your expertise in environmental management.
Tailor Your CV to the Role:As we're looking for someone to jump into a full-time role, be specific about previous roles or projects that demonstrate your capabilities in sustainability. Use bullet points to make accomplishments clear, and don’t forget to quantify your achievements wherever possible – it’s all about showing us the impact of your work!
Research Percy Hedley Foundation and Reflect It In Your Application:We love candidates who take the time to understand what we're about. Mention specific initiatives or projects that Percy Hedley Foundation is known for in your cover letter. This shows us that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely excited about the chance to contribute to our mission in the role of Sustainability & Energy Specialist.
How to prepare for a job interview at Percy Hedley Foundation
✨Brush Up on Environmental Legislation
Given that we're diving into sustainability and environmental management, it’s crucial to have a solid understanding of current environmental laws and regulations. Be prepared to discuss how these laws apply to real-world scenarios, as you might face some technical questions about compliance and best practices during your chat with Percy Hedley Foundation.
✨Showcase Your Experience with Sustainability Projects
When you're discussing your background, highlight specific sustainability initiatives you've been involved in. Whether it’s a project at university or work experience, sharing measurable outcomes and your role will demonstrate your hands-on skills, which is super important for this full-time role at Percy Hedley Foundation.
✨Familiarity with Tools and Software
Make sure you're familiar with any relevant tools or software commonly used in environmental management, like GIS for mapping or data analysis tools. Bring this up in your interview as it shows you’re not only passionate but also prepared to roll up your sleeves and get to work!
✨Connect Your Values with the Company's Mission
Full-time roles are all about team fit, so it’s important to align your personal values with those of Percy Hedley Foundation. Be ready to discuss why you're passionate about sustainability and how you can contribute to their mission, as this will really resonate with the interviewers and show that you’re genuinely invested in their goals.
