Exploring career paths in ESG - where passion meets purpose (2024)

In today’s evolving business landscape, the one-dimensional pursuit of profits has taken a back seat to a more integrated approach that addresses environmental, social, and governance (ESG) concerns.

As companies worldwide embrace sustainability, diversity, and ethical governance, a new realm of rewarding and well-compensated career opportunities has emerged for people with a passion for positive change.

If you’re considering a qualification and a career in ESG, you’re stepping into a realm that not only aligns with your values but also opens doors to a diverse array of impactful and rewarding paths and you will want to know more about ESG jobs and salaries.

There are many career paths for people with an ESG qualification

First, there are jobs and careers that are ESG specific, in other words, they exist because of ESG. These include:

  • ESG analysts
  • ESG consultant
  • ESG engineer
  • ESG researcher
  • Sustainability manager
  • Corporate responsibility officer
  • Social impact analyst
  • ESG reputational risk manager
  • ESG and climate reporting manager
  • Social sustainability / ESG analyst
  • ESG and strategy manager

Next there are ESG related jobs, in other words, existing roles that require ESG knowledge now that ESG is a focus in firms. These include:

  • HR managers with ESG training
  • ESG tax advisor
  • ESG strategy and partnerships manager
  • Internal auditor | Financial & ESG
  • ESG project manager
  • Environmental protection specialist
  • Urban planner
  • ESG-based landscape architect
  • ESG energy manager
  • Environmental consultant
  • Ecologist
  • Energy engineer
  • Sustainability engineer
  • Conservation scientists
  • ESG air quality engineer
  • Energy and ESG analyst

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Do ESG jobs pay well?

Yes, a career in an ESG-related field typically comes with a remuneration package of between 60k and 200k – depending on the sector and the level of experience a candidate brings to the table.

You can discover more when you conduct a search for ‘ESG jobs and salaries’ on websites like LinkedIn and Glassdoor to learn more about ESG careers, jobs, and associated salaries.

The ESG revolution – a quick overview

ESG encapsulates a multifaceted framework that evaluates a company’s performance based on its environmental impact, social responsibility, and corporate governance practices.

This shift in thinking has led to the rise of career opportunities that go beyond traditional business roles.

Let’s delve into some exciting career paths for those equipped with ESG qualifications.

ESG analyst: decoding data for impact

ESG analysts are the unsung heroes of sustainability in the corporate world.

Armed with analytical prowess, these professionals dig deep into data to evaluate a company’s performance across ESG metrics.

From carbon emissions to diversity ratios, ESG analysts provide insights that drive strategic decisions, helping companies navigate the complex landscape of sustainability while optimising their operations.

Sustainability manager: nurturing green initiatives

For individuals passionate about environmental preservation, the role of a sustainability manager beckons.

These professionals devise and implement strategies that minimise a company’s carbon footprint, reduce waste, and promote resource efficiency.

From promoting renewable energy adoption to managing recycling programs, sustainability managers are at the forefront of driving positive change.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) manager: fostering positive impact

CSR managers are the architects of a company’s social conscience.

They develop and execute initiatives that benefit local communities, empower employees, and promote ethical business practices.

Whether it’s spearheading philanthropic endeavours or establishing employee volunteer programs, CSR managers ensure that companies are not only profitable but also socially responsible.

ESG consultant: guiding transformation

ESG consultants are change agents who guide companies on their journey towards sustainable transformation.

Armed with expertise in regulations, standards, and best practices, these professionals offer strategic guidance to help businesses integrate ESG principles into their core operations.

ESG consultants bridge the gap between intention and action, catalysing meaningful change.

Impact investment analyst: aligning capital with causes

For finance-savvy individuals with a heart for social and environmental change, the role of an impact investment analyst offers a compelling avenue.

These professionals assess investment opportunities that generate both financial returns and positive societal impact.

From renewable energy projects to affordable housing initiatives, impact investment analysts prove that profits and purpose can coexist.

Ethical sourcing specialist: navigating global supply chains

In our interconnected world, ethical sourcing specialists play a pivotal role in ensuring that companies uphold ethical and sustainable sourcing practices.

They navigate complex global supply chains to identify potential risks and ensure that products are sourced responsibly, minimising negative social and environmental impacts.

Watch this video where Shaheer Hafeez, an associate director of ESG strategy with KPMG, discusses environmental, social and governance (ESG) and its emerging trends.

The skill set required – a blend of expertise

Qualifications in ESG aren’t just about understanding sustainability jargon; they demand a versatile skill set that spans data analysis, stakeholder engagement, ethical decision-making, and effective communication.

ESG professionals must possess the ability to transform intricate data into actionable insights, engage diverse stakeholders, and communicate the value of sustainable practices across all levels of an organisation.

A world of opportunities awaits

ESG careers aren’t confined to specific industries; they permeate diverse sectors, including finance, technology, energy, retail, healthcare, and manufacturing.

As more companies embrace ESG principles, the demand for skilled professionals continues to surge, leading to competitive salary ranges and robust growth prospects.

Paving your path – getting started

To embark on a successful ESG career journey, consider these steps:

  • Education and training: Equip yourself with relevant qualifications, such as the university-accredited international Diploma in ESG. This will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to potential employers.
  • Networking: Engage with ESG professionals through industry conferences, online forums, and LinkedIn groups. Networking can open doors to valuable insights, job opportunities, and mentorship.
  • Tailored resumes: Craft your resume to highlight your ESG qualifications, relevant skills, and any prior experience or projects that demonstrate your passion for sustainability.
  • Continuous learning: The world of ESG is ever-evolving. Stay updated on the latest trends, regulations, and technologies to remain a valuable asset to your future employers.

Your journey to create an impact in the field of ESG

Choosing a career aligned with ESG principles isn’t just a job; it’s a calling to drive positive change in the world.

Whether you’re passionate about the environment, social equity, or ethical governance, ESG careers offer a dynamic canvas to contribute meaningfully while enjoying competitive compensation and growth opportunities.

As you step into the realm of ESG, remember that your journey holds the potential to shape a more sustainable and inclusive future for generations to come.

Download the course brochure below and start your journey today.

Exploring career paths in ESG - where passion meets purpose (2024)

FAQs

Why do you want to choose career in ESG? ›

Similarly to career paths for CFA charterholders, becoming qualified in ESG investing via certification can lead to more opportunities in a number of finance careers, as well as being a key differentiator to those already working in financial roles.

Why am I interested in ESG? ›

ESG considerations can be a crucial part of risk management, as they can help identify and mitigate various risks that can impact financial performance. For example, environmental risks such as climate change or water scarcity can significantly impact companies' operations and financial performance.

How to pursue a career in ESG? ›

In conclusion, the qualifications and experience required for an ESG job can vary. Still, a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, knowledge of ESG principles, and relevant experience are frequently preferred. Furthermore, strong problem-solving and communication abilities are highly valued in the area.

What skills are needed for an ESG analyst? ›

Essential Skillsets for an ESG Analyst
  • Effective collaboration within investment teams.
  • Strong communication skills.
  • Knowledge of relevant regulations like GDPR guidelines.
  • Commitment to transparent reporting of findings.
  • Proficiency in quantitative analysis.
Sep 13, 2023

Why are you passionate about a career in sustainability? ›

Creating a Positive World Through Sustainability

I'm passionate about environmental sustainability because I want to protect nature, support strained ecosystems, and create a more positive world. Humans have quite literally changed the face of the world.

Why is ESG important to individuals? ›

ESG has gained significant importance as investors and stakeholders increasingly consider non-financial factors when making investment decisions. ESG factors help assess the overall sustainability and ethical performance of companies, which can have implications for their long-term success and reputation.

Why is ESG so important now? ›

Conservation of Natural Resources. ESG practices promote responsible resource management. These practices include efforts to minimize water usage, reduce waste, and adopt sustainable sourcing practices for raw materials. Such measures contribute to the conservation of vital natural resources and ecosystems.

How to prepare for an ESG interview? ›

ESG interview questions:
  1. What experience do you have with ESG frameworks?
  2. What do you see as the three essential pillars of ESG?
  3. What ESG key performance indicators do you work towards?
  4. How do you keep track of evolving trends in ESG?
  5. What ESG certifications do you hold?

What does a career in sustainability look like? ›

A sustainability director envisions ways to make their company more environmentally friendly and work with their team to actualize goals. Responsibilities may include building sustainable facilities, reducing production waste, and training employees about energy saving methods.

Does ESG pay well? ›

The average ESG salary ranges from approximately £16,010 per year (estimate) for an Office Worker to £139,728 per year (estimate) for a Global Chief Strategy Officer. ESG employees rate the overall compensation and benefits package 4/5 stars.

What is the basic knowledge of ESG? ›

ESG stands for environmental, social and governance. These are called pillars in ESG frameworks and represent the 3 main topic areas that companies are expected to report in. The goal of ESG is to capture all the non-financial risks and opportunities inherent to a company's day to day activities.

What is the most important in ESG? ›

All economic activity is a result of human behaviour, which then impacts human welfare, so the 'S' of ESG – environmental, social and governance – is arguably the most important dimension.

What is the salary of ESG consultant? ›

The average salary for ESG Consultant is ₹7,94,965 per year in the India.

Is there a career in ESG? ›

ESG careers have often been focused on measuring and reporting on environmental, social, and governance-related data – particularly in the world of finance. Today, ESG careers can also include a focus on strategizing, operating, and implementing solutions related to these areas.

How do I start learning about ESG? ›

To start, assess your current practices, identify areas for improvement, set clear ESG goals, integrate them into your company's strategy, measure and monitor performance, and communicate progress to stakeholders, including investors and customers.

Where can I study ESG? ›

SGS Academy offers Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) training solutions, from introductory to topic-specific levels, to help you improve overall ESG performance and compliance, mitigating operational and reputational risks.

How much do people in ESG make? ›

Esg Analyst Salary in Los Angeles, CA
Annual SalaryMonthly Pay
Top Earners$111,522$9,293
75th Percentile$85,100$7,091
Average$78,916$6,576
25th Percentile$58,700$4,891

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