ESG Manager

Manchester Arndale; London; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

An exciting opportunity for an ESG Manager at a leading partnership between a facilities management firm and the University of Sussex. This role involves leading sustainability initiatives to enhance compliance with ESG commitments and make a significant impact on the university's carbon footprint and social responsibility efforts. The ideal candidate will possess strong strategic thinking and interpersonal skills, along with a proven track record in achieving sustainability objectives.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in a sustainability-focused role with measurable outcomes.
• Familiarity with carbon management and measurement practices.
• Experience managing volunteering, community engagement, or social impact programmes.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage sustainability strategies aligning with the University’s vision.
• Conduct annual carbon impact assessments and maintain a carbon reduction plan.
• Establish a network of sustainability champions across SEF.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Interpersonal skills

Self-motivated

Positive attitude

Continuous learning

Education

Postgraduate certifications in sustainability, ESG, or related field

Job description

About The Company:

This recruitment campaign is being managed by OCS Group UK on behalf of Sussex Estates and Facilities LLP (SEF) - which is a partnership formed between OCS and the University of Sussex. SEF is the direct employer for this role and is responsible for delivering facilities management services across the University of Sussex estate.

OCS is proud to partner with theUniversity of Sussex in this long-term collaboration. With a workforce of over 50,000 colleagues and a turnover exceeding £2 billion, OCS is a market leader in delivering innovative and award-winning services across facilities management, including hard services, cleaning, security, and catering. These strengths underpin our commitment to excellence in the SEF partnership.

Our shared mission is to enhance the University campus by ensuring it operates smoothly and efficiently, aligning with the University's values and commitment to sustainability. Together, we are dedicated to making the campus a better place for students, staff, and the broader community. The partnership is built on the core values of Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment, guiding how we work and deliver services.

Please note: The employing organisation for this role will be Sussex Estates and Facilities LLP.

About The Role:

Are you ready to lead the charge in creating a more sustainable future? SEF, in partnership with the University of Sussex, is seeking a dynamic and drivenESG Managerto deliver on our Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments. This is a unique opportunity to shape and implement impactful sustainability strategies across a diverse and vibrant university estate.

As the ESG Manager, you’ll be at the heart of our mission to reduce carbon emissions, enhance biodiversity, and deliver meaningful social value—while aligning closely with the University’s ambitious sustainability goals.

As part of your role, your key responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Develop and manage a contract-specific sustainability strategy that aligns with the University of Sussex’s overarching sustainability vision.
• Conduct annual carbon impact assessments and maintain a robust carbon reduction plan, identifying opportunities for measurable environmental improvements.
• Establish a network of sustainability champions and lead volunteering initiatives that foster a culture of environmental and social responsibility across SEF.
• Act as the key liaison between SEF and the University’s sustainability teams, contributing to working groups, steering committees, and the ‘living laboratory’ initiative.
• Maintain structured environmental and energy management systems (aligned to ISO 14001 and 50001), and report regularly on ESG metrics including social value and biodiversity outcomes.

This role requires more than passion—it demands proven experience, strategic thinking, and the ability to lead sustainability initiatives with confidence and credibility. We're looking for someone who can hit the ground running and drive real impact.

The ideal candidate should meet the following criteria:

• Minimum 3 years’ experiencein a sustainability-focused role, with a track record of delivering measurable outcomes.
• Demonstrated success increating or managing ESG-related management planswithin a complex organisation.
• Strong understanding ofenvironmental and social governance principles, with the ability to translate them into practical, on-the-ground action.

Core Competencies:

• Self-motivatedand able to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
• Apositive, proactive attitudewith a strong sense of personal responsibility.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability tobuild relationships and influence stakeholdersat all levels.
• Committed tocontinuous learning and development, both personally and across the team.
• Embodies and promotes thecorporate valuesof integrity, inclusivity, and sustainability.

Desirable Knowledge & Qualifications:

• Familiarity withcarbon management and measurementpractices.
• Experience inwaste managementand circular economy initiatives.
• Qualifications or training insustainability, ESG, or a related field—including postgraduate certifications.
• Experience managingvolunteering, community engagement, or social impact programmes.

How to Apply:

If you are interested in joining a business that encourages professional development, career progression and the chance to work with inspirational people then please click apply and register your interest! You can also sign up to our job alerts when registering which will notify you when other suitable vacancies are available.

We are an equal opportunities employer and rely on a diverse workforce with a broad range of knowledge, skills, and backgrounds to deliver our goals. We offer an inclusive and welcoming environment and actively encourage applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or age.