Senior Sustainability Consultant

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an ambitious and impact-driven professional to join a dynamic non-profit organisation at the forefront of sustainability and climate action in Northern Ireland. At Sustainable NI, we are committed to advancing a net-zero future by providing tailored support, expert advice, essential tools and metrics to empower organisations to reduce their carbon emissions and adopt more sustainable practices, paving the way towards a greener and more responsible future for all.

Our workplace culture is defined by a shared sense of purpose, where each team member actively contributes to combating the climate crisis and driving positive change. This role offers more than just a job - it offers the chance to make a tangible difference while enjoying a rewarding career in a supportive, forward-thinking environment. Sustainable NI is proud to offer a four-day work week at full-time pay to ensure a healthy work-life balance.

ROLE DESCRIPTION

We are seeking a Senior Sustainability Consultant to lead and expand our public sector support programme. In this pivotal role, you will provide technical and strategic guidance to public sector organisations to ensure compliance with statutory sustainability and climate change duties. 

Your responsibilities will include delivering carbon footprint analyses and verification, developing climate and sustainability policies, action plans, and driving sustainable procurement practices. Additionally, you will guide organisations on sustainability reporting and screening approaches.

The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, enthusiastic, and possess a strong passion for sustainability and numerical analysis, alongside excellent client relationship management skills.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Provide expert advice on sustainability, climate change reporting, and policy development, including sustainable procurement strategies, to public sector clients.
2. Coordinate a network of sustainability practitioners, facilitating meetings, events, and site visits.
3. Develop tools, resources, and training materials to promote sustainability and climate action within the public sector.
4. Organise and deliver workshops and training events focused on sustainability and climate change.
5. Build and maintain relationships with key sustainability stakeholders, fostering collaboration and shared efficiencies across the public sector.
6. Identify opportunities to enhance and expand Sustainable NI’s advisory services.
7. Prepare tenders and proposals for new advisory projects.
8. Oversee the delivery of projects and programmes, including staff and budget management.
9. Conduct research and formulate policy positions on critical sustainability issues, preparing high-quality consultation responses to government proposals.
10. Lead a communications programme to promote Sustainable NI's work, including the development of content for the website, newsletter, and social media.

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Environmental Science, Public Policy, Geography), or equivalent demonstrable experience.
• Minimum of 3 years' experience in corporate sustainability and environmental management.
• Knowledge of greenhouse gas reporting and standards (e.g., GHG Protocol, ISO 14064).
• Proven experience in managing sustainability projects and initiatives.
• In-depth understanding of environmental policies and strategies at the national level.
• Experience in securing budgets for projects or income growth through proposal development.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to confidently present information to diverse audiences.
• Excellent organisational skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

DESIRABLE CRITERIA

• Expertise in greenhouse gas reporting and standards (e.g., GHG Protocol, ISO 14064)
• Expertise in sustainable procurement
• An additional postgraduate qualification e.g. Masters
• Industry qualification (e.g. IEMA)

SALARY

£40,000 - £45,000 per annum, commensurate with experience.

HOURS

Sustainable NI currently operates a four-day work week (32 hours per week) Standard hours are 9am – 5.30pm, with flexibility.

LOCATION

The role offers a hybrid working model, with three days from home and one day in the office in Belfast. Occasional travel across Northern Ireland is required, and candidates must have access to reliable transportation.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Interested candidates should submit a CV and cover letter (maximum 3 pages) outlining how their skills and experience align with the role’s requirements to admin@sustainableni.org by noon on Friday 15 November 2024 (referencing the role title in the subject field). Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted due to the high volume of applications. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES

Sustainable NI is an inclusive workplace, committed to providing equal opportunities to all employees. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an environment where every employee is valued, respected, and empowered to achieve their full potential. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment regardless of race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, or age.

NB: Sustainable NI is currently piloting a 4-day working week on full pay. The Board retains the right to change or withdraw the terms of this pilot with 1 month’s notice.