Head of Sustainability

Sustainability Research Institute at University of East London; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 61,000 - 71,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking university committed to sustainability as the Head of Sustainability. In this pivotal role, you'll lead initiatives to achieve net zero carbon by 2030, championing sustainability across all university operations. Collaborate with diverse stakeholders to drive impactful projects, from energy efficiency to biodiversity. This is an opportunity to shape a sustainable future in higher education, making a meaningful difference in the community and beyond. If you are a visionary leader passionate about sustainability, apply today and help us lead the way to a greener tomorrow.

Qualifications

• Proven success in leading sustainability strategies in complex organisations.
• Knowledge of environmental legislation and standards.

Responsibilities

• Drive the university’s Net Zero and Sustainability Strategy.
• Lead sustainability communications and cultural change programmes.
• Oversee sustainability governance and compliance.

Skills

Sustainability Strategy

Environmental Management

Communication Skills

Project Management

Partnership Building

Education

Degree in Environmental Science

Chartered Environmentalist Qualification

Tools

ISO 14001

BREEAM

WELL Standards

Job description

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Location: All UEL Campuses (with hybrid working options)

Salary: Grade H (Competitive) - £61,580 to £70,695 per annum inclusive of London Weighting

Contract Type: Permanent, Full-Time

Post Type

Permanent

Closing Date

Tuesday 20 May 2025

Interview Date

To be confirmed

Reference

0798-25-PS

Be the change. Shape a sustainable future at UEL.

At the University of East London, we’re building the future now. As we enter Year 5 of our bold 10-year strategy – Vision 2028 – we’re transforming our university to meet the demands of Industry 5.0, placing sustainability, inclusivity, and careers-first education at the heart of what we do.

As our new Head of Sustainability, you will play a central strategic role in helping us achieve our ambition to become a net zero carbon institution by 2030. Working across our University, you will champion our sustainability efforts in all areas of the university – making a meaningful impact bringing together research and innovation, how we plan, build, and behave.

The Role

This is a high-impact position. Reporting directly to the Director of Estates and Facilities, you will:

• Drive forward the university’s Net Zero and broader Sustainability Strategy.
• Support decision-making at all levels across academic and professional teams.
• Lead sustainability communications and cultural change programmes.
• Oversee sustainability governance, environmental management systems, and compliance.
• Deliver and evaluate Key projects – from energy efficiency to biodiversity – ensuring they are aligned with national standards and our institutional goals.
• Represent UEL at local, regional and national forums as a champion for sustainability in higher education.

You will lead a team and collaborate with internal stakeholders, students, senior leaders, and external partners to embed sustainability into every aspect of UEL life.

About You

You are a visionary leader with a deep understanding of sustainability and environmental management. You bring:

• Proven success in leading sustainability strategies and projects in complex organisations.
• Knowledge of environmental legislation and standards (e.g., ISO 14001, BREEAM, WELL).
• Strong communication, engagement and influencing skills, particularly at a senior level.
• Experience building partnerships and securing funding to deliver measurable outcomes.
• A degree in a sustainability-related field (e.g., Environmental Science, Energy Management).

Ideally, you also bring experience in higher education and hold a relevant professional qualification such as Chartered Environmentalist or similar.

Why UEL?

We’re a vibrant, inclusive community committed to positive change. You’ll join a forward-thinking university where your work will directly contribute to shaping a more sustainable, fairer future for our students, staff, and society.

We are proud of our diversity, and a champion of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. We welcome applications from all backgrounds.

Ready to shape the future?

Apply today and help us lead the way to a more sustainable tomorrow.

Further Details

Job Description & Person Specification

Email details to a friend

To contact the recruitment team please phone[phone]x 4600 or [e-mail]

CVs without a completed application form will not be accepted.

At UEL we are committed to working together to build a community which values diversity in both our staff and student populations, is representative and inclusive, enabling all to progress and thrive

Apply: https://jobs.uel.ac.uk/Vacancy.aspx?ref=0798-25-PS

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Director

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Business Development and Sales

• Industries

  Higher Education

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