At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage operations for the NZAOA, ensuring smooth day-to-day activities and strategic improvements.
- Company: Join the PRI, a leader in responsible investment and sustainability.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for international collaboration.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of climate action and make a real impact on global investment practices.
- Qualifications: Experience in project management and excellent communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 32000 £ per year.
Employment Type - Contract (Please note, where PRI has an office there is an expectation to work a minimum of 2 days per week)
Location - Hybrid · London, UK
Closing: 11:59pm, 16th Aug 2026 BST
About the PRI
The PRI is the world’s leading proponent of responsible investment. It works to understand the investment implications of environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors and to support its international network of investor signatories in incorporating these factors into their investment and ownership decisions.
The PRI’s three distinct capabilities relate to the core elements of the PRI’s approach to achieving a sustainable financial system:
- Translate RI (Responsible Investment) thought leadership into insights and practical support that is tailored to what signatories need to progress their RI practice
- Convene our vast network to create opportunities for collaborative action
- Harness our global scale to influence policymakers and regulators to effect system change
Job Description
This role sits in the PRI’s Investor Initiatives and Collaboration team and will primarily focus on the UN-Convened Net Zero Asset Owner Alliance (NZAOA), co-convened by the PRI and UNEP FI. The successful candidate will work at the heart of this flagship net zero initiative to ensure smooth operations and management of the NZAOA.
Core Responsibilities
- Lead the management of Secretariat operations of the NZAOA, including day to day operations (organizing meetings, circulating agendas, meeting materials and minutes, shared documentation, etc.) as well as strategic review of processes, proposing improvements where required/identified, and supporting Secretariat leads/Directors in the smooth running of the NZAOA.
- Provide day-to-day management of the Operations Associate – including supervision, workload prioritisation, and task direction – in a matrix arrangement, with formal line management sitting elsewhere; shared oversight of NZAOA inbox and triage of signatory queries.
- Produce high-quality meeting documentation against multiple internal governance formats maintaining consistent house styles for each meeting type.
- Support internal governance processes, including governance reviews, administration of signatory votes, and signatory surveys.
- Support the NZAOA secretariat in delivering against work track implementation plans and budget, working directly with Secretariat colleagues and NZAOA signatories.
- Manage processes for NZAOA internal governance meetings, including with C-level signatories.
- Ensure Standard Operating Procedures and procurement processes are followed in developing guidance, briefing documents or other deliverables for the NZAOA.
- Support colleagues in planning and delivering signatory-facing events and in-person convenings, including the Annual General Meeting.
- Manage the signatory database, acting as data steward for signatory records, including AUM updates and reconciliation, and providing quarterly participation reporting in Salesforce.
- Lead budget development, tracking and invoice management for the NZAOA.
- Engage with the PRI Markets Teams with respect to NZAOA signatories and updates.
- Collaborate externally and internally with different partners and teams where appropriate.
- Support relationship management with NZAOA signatories and with external partners.
- Provide regular reporting to the head of the secretariat of the NZAOA as required.
Person Specification
The role will involve close, regular co-ordination with UNEP FI, PRI, and investor signatories of the NZAOA on cutting edge topics that advance investor action on net zero. Our ideal candidate would have excellent project management, organization, and multi-stakeholder coordination skills and a keen interest in driving ambitious investor action on climate.
The role focuses on managing the operations of the NZAOA Secretariat including work plan development and implementation, progress tracking, and financial management. This also includes the planning of weekly Secretariat and Steering Group representative meetings, and quarterly All Signatory calls, as well as maintaining the NZAOA knowledge and information management system, contact management system, and supporting with finances and procurement processes.
As the Operations Manager, the successful candidate will provide day-to-day management of the Operations Associate (with formal line management held by a colleague) and have responsibility for a range of activities that are key to ensuring the smooth functioning of the NZAOA Secretariat. The successful candidate will also be responsible for coordinating with other PRI teams to ensure connectivity and efficiency, including Signatory Relations, Finance and Communications colleagues.
Mandatory assessment criteria:
- Programme management experience, with track record of delivering complex projects successfully, including directing others who may not be direct reports.
- Well-developed people management skills, with experience of day-to-day supervision or matrix management of colleagues.
- Excellent written communication skills, including drafting minutes, briefings, and stakeholder-ready correspondence to a high standard.
- A collaborative and consultative approach to working with others & commitment to fostering an inclusive environment.
- Excellent networking, relationship management and interpersonal skills and experience of building strong and productive relationships—including with senior external stakeholders.
- IT/Digital skills: Microsoft Office (in particular Excel), website management systems, project management software (Asana), CRM and database tools (Salesforce and PowerApps and/or custom contact management systems), survey tools, and SharePoint.
- As this is a global role, some international travel may be required.
We particularly welcome candidates from under-represented groups, including Black, Asian, and other People of Colour, those with visible or non-visible disabilities, LGBTQ+ candidates and those who are neurodivergent.
N.B. We reserve the right to close a vacancy before the closing date in the event of an overwhelming response or a change in business priorities.
NZ AOA Operations Manager - (1 Year Fixed Term Contract - Possible Extension) employer: Principles for Responsible Investment
At the PRI, we pride ourselves on being a leading employer in the responsible investment sector, offering a dynamic hybrid work environment in the heart of London. Our collaborative culture fosters innovation and personal growth, providing employees with opportunities to engage in meaningful projects that drive sustainable financial practices. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, we support our team members in their professional development while making a positive impact on the global investment landscape.
Contact Details:
Principles for Responsible Investment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land NZ AOA Operations Manager - (1 Year Fixed Term Contract - Possible Extension)
✨Leverage Your Network
Tap into your existing network in corporate circles—friends, former colleagues, or even acquaintances from industry events. A temporary role often isn't widely advertised, so having someone inside a company like Principles for Responsible Investment can give you the inside scoop or even a referral.
✨Stay Alert for Short-term Opportunities
Many corporate leadership roles are filled during peak business cycles or project launches. Keep your eyes peeled for announcements or staffing needs from companies like Principles for Responsible Investment; they might be looking for temporary support during busy times.
✨Showcase Your Flexibility
In temporary roles, adaptability is key. When you're chatting with potential employers, emphasise your ability to quickly adjust to new challenges and demands. Highlight specific instances where you've successfully managed change or stepped into new projects on short notice.
✨Join Corporate Management Forums
Get involved in online corporate management forums or local business groups. Networking in these spaces can help you discover temporary opportunities as well as gather insights about industry trends. Plus, being active in these communities can help you establish yourself as a knowledgeable candidate when applying to places like Principles for Responsible Investment.
We think you need these skills to ace NZ AOA Operations Manager - (1 Year Fixed Term Contract - Possible Extension)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Leadership Experience:For a role in corporate leadership management, it’s crucial to emphasise your past leadership experiences. Mention specific projects where you led teams or initiatives, detailing the outcomes and skills you developed. This shows that you understand what it takes to guide a team and deliver results.
Show Your Adaptability for Temporary Roles:Since this is a temporary position, employers will be looking for someone who can hit the ground running. In your cover letter, explain why you're interested in a temporary role at Principles for Responsible Investment and how your previous experience equips you to adapt quickly to new challenges.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any certifications in project management, team leadership, or similar areas, definitely include them in your CV. These credentials can set you apart from other applicants, showing you’re not just qualified but also committed to your professional growth.
Tailor Your CV to the Company Culture:Take some time to research Principles for Responsible Investment's values and leadership style. Adjust your CV language and examples to reflect their culture, demonstrating that you're not only a good fit for the job itself but for the organisation as a whole. This adds a personal touch that can really make your application stand out.
How to prepare for a job interview at Principles for Responsible Investment
✨Show Off Your Leadership Stories
For a temporary role in corporate leadership management, we want to hear your stories! Think of specific examples where you’ve led teams or projects successfully, particularly under tight deadlines or challenging situations. This isn't just about what you did, but how your actions positively impacted the team or the business.
✨Be Ready for Situational Questions
Expect situational interview questions where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving and decision-making skills. Think of common scenarios in corporate settings, like managing a conflict or implementing a new strategy, and practice articulating your thought process and outcomes. This will help show off your ability to navigate corporate complexities.
✨Talk Strategy, Not Just Tasks
In a temporary leadership role, understanding the bigger picture is crucial. Brush up on strategic management principles and be prepared to discuss how you can quickly adapt and contribute to the company's objectives. Consider how you would initiate change or drive efficiency within a limited time frame—this will show that you're ready to hit the ground running!
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Adaptability
Given the temporary nature of this position, we need to see how adaptable you are! Think of examples where you've had to adjust your leadership style or approach based on team dynamics or company culture. We want to know how you can blend in quickly while still making an impact during a short-term engagement.