Environmental Specialist in Westhoughton

We have a new opportunity for an Environmental Specialist. The role is permanent, Monday to Friday 08:30 – 17:00. Reporting to the Environmental Manager, the Environmental Specialist will be responsible for the business delivery of the Stateside Sustainability Strategy, ensuring all data gathered is accurate and clearly presented to fulfil statutory obligations and drive Stateside Foods’ short, medium and long‑term sustainability strategy. With a strong knowledge of regulations, guidelines, trends, group policies, and customers’ sustainability policies, key knowledge will be shared with the business via the Sustainability Communication framework.

Responsibilities

• Policy Development and Implementation: develop, gain approval for, and implement comprehensive policies on sustainability (e.g., Waste, Zero Deforestation, Diversity & Inclusion).
• Respond to Regulatory and Customer Compliance: propose future sustainability strategy, projects and activities in response to employee suggestions, legal requirements, customer policies, group policies, or key trends.
• Leadership and Strategy: deputise for the Environment Manager at the “Planet” sector meeting, driving the agreed strategy, commitment and targets including Net Zero, energy usage, waste reduction and water use.
• Work Stream Management: establish work streams with strategic objectives and targets to embed sustainability initiatives into core business operations (focused on People, Planet & Product), ensuring they are integral to day‑to‑day activities and deliver business KPIs and targets.
• Long‑term Planning: develop and oversee the execution of long‑term plans for relevant sustainability areas such as energy, waste and water.
• Data Management: collate and accurately and clearly share all data, trends and information regarding Stateside’s performance with relevant stakeholders while driving our short, medium and long‑term sustainability goals.
• Reporting: submit timely critical reports, including Manufacturer 2030 data, Sudzucker Annual Environmental Report, SECR & CCA reports, Plastic and Packaging taxes, etc. Create and publish the company’s Sustainability Strategy and annual Sustainability Report.
• Energy and Audit Management: lead and manage ISO 50001, maintaining compliance via audits with relevant sustainability legislation and group strategies. Research, propose and implement energy‑saving processes and projects. Address and resolve any non‑conformances identified during audits.
• Supplier and Customer Relationships: foster relationships with suppliers and customers through strategy days, surveys and presentations.
• Training and Development: develop and deliver a sustainability‑training programme to support and train colleagues to develop a sustainable mind‑set.
• Employee Engagement: support employee engagement and review employee suggestions to encourage and develop a sustainable mind‑set in employees.
• Communication: enhance internal communication through newsletters, TV screens and monthly updates, ensuring all employees are informed and engaged.
• External Representation: represent the company at sustainability‑related events and conferences, ensuring continuous learning and networking.
• Meeting Participation: regularly chair, participate in and contribute to key meetings (EMT, Planet, SWG, Steering, Directors and Group meetings) to ensure delivery of actions, alignment and effective communication.
• Continuous Improvement: promote and encourage continuous improvement, lean methodologies and 5S within the team.

Qualifications

Candidates should possess a degree in Environmental Science or a related discipline, along with strong knowledge of relevant legislation and a solid understanding of engineering best practices.