Sustainability Lead

Shirley Parsons; Oxford; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading contractor in the UK is seeking a Sustainability Lead to manage environmental performance across high-tech facilities projects. The role requires expertise in BREEAM and LEED certifications, strong communication skills, and a proactive approach to embedding sustainability into project delivery. You'll lead from the front, driving key sustainability goals and influencing change within teams. Join us to make a significant impact in the construction industry.

Qualifications

• Proven experience supporting sustainability in construction projects.
• Confident leading conversations on environmental compliance.
• Experience with carbon/impact assessments.

Responsibilities

• Act as the go-to sustainability expert across major UK projects.
• Own BREEAM, LEED, and other accreditations with clients.
• Embed ESG strategy into live project delivery.

Skills

Environmental compliance

BREEAM certification

LEED certification

Communication skills

Project management

Tools

BREEAM

LEED

Job description

We're partnering with a fast-growing, forward-thinking contractor that delivers high-tech facilities across manufacturing, logistics, life sciences, and data centre sectors. As their Sustainability Lead, you'll play a pivotal role in managing a handful of projects down the M40 corridor from Birmingham to Oxford, embedding sustainability into every phase of project delivery - from the ground up.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a self-starter who's ready to own their agenda, influence at all levels, and leave a lasting legacy on the built environment.

Where You'll Make an Impact

• Lead from the front – Act as the go-to sustainability expert across major UK projects, ensuring best-in-class environmental performance.
• Drive project certifications – Own BREEAM, LEED and other accreditations with clients and consultants, keeping everyone aligned and accountable.
• Shape strategy – Embed the wider ESG strategy into live project delivery, pushing forward key goals around carbon, compliance, and culture.
• Train and influence – Build capability across teams through tailored sustainability training and impactful reporting.
• Raise the bar – Regularly visit sites to champion environmental compliance and identify new opportunities for sustainable innovation.

What You Bring

• A track record supporting sustainability in construction projects – with a passion for pushing boundaries, not ticking boxes.
• Confident in leading conversations on environmental compliance, certification, and planning conditions.
• Experienced with tools like BREEAM, LEED or carbon/impact assessments.
• A natural communicator – clear, credible, and able to inspire change across technical and non-technical audiences.
• Proactive and autonomous – you're a doer, someone who thrives on making things happen and taking ownership.