Group Head of ESG, International Retailer, Europe

Are you an experienced sustainability leader looking to create impact at scale? Are you excited by the prospect of driving environmental and social change at a global level? This business, a large retailer with stores in 20 European countries and global sourcing operations, is looking to hire a Group Head of ESG to lead the next iteration of its sustainability journey.

Reporting directly to the CFO, this role is responsible for galvanising the business behind its ESG strategy, which you’ll play a key part in creating. You’ll work with collaboratively with different functions and regional leaders to develop and execute programmes which will reinforce the business as a leader and driver of positive change in the apparel industry.

Group Head of ESG responsibilities

• Sustainability Strategy – you’ll be responsible for leading the development and ongoing refinement of the ESG strategy, ensuring alignment with business objectives
• ESG Integration – you’ll lead all aspects of ESG integration into core business strategy and culture, including product sourcing, supply chain, operations and customer engagement
• Implementation & Delivery – you’ll oversee the business-wide roll out of ESG strategic initiatives across regions, ensuring local adaptation and impact
• Reporting & Compliance – you’ll establish and maintain rigorous governance frameworks to ensure compliance with global regulations and standards, as well as tracking sustainability-related data and metrics
• Stakeholder Engagement – you’ll foster collaborative and effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including employees, investors, customers, suppliers, community groups and regulatory bodies
• Leadership and Team Development – you’ll lead and develop a core team of ESG experts, striving for high levels of achievement

Group Head of ESG requirements

• Previous experience as a sustainability leader in a listed company
• Knowledge of key issues faced in the retail and apparel sectors, including practical experience of social impact policies, climate change mitigation, carbon reduction and responsible sourcing
• Knowledge and experience of relevant European sustainability frameworks, reporting standards and regulatory requirements
• Experience in a global business with complex supply chains
• Experience leading and developing teams of environmental and social specialists
• The ability to champion and shift beliefs and behaviours at all levels
• The ability to lead and motivate diverse teams to buy into and support the delivery of organisational goals

This is a rare opportunity to lead the ESG function for an established organisation with revenues of over €6bn and a presence in 20 European countries. For more information, please get in touch  with our team, including a copy of your CV, as soon as possible via the form below.

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