Sustainability Officer

JR United Kingdom; Dartford; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organization in golf management seeks a sustainability support specialist to aid the implementation of its sustainability strategy. This role involves coordinating education efforts, managing relationships internally and externally, and contributing to sustainability initiatives across the golf community. Ideal candidates will have a background in environmental sciences and experience in managing sustainable practices in sport.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of sustainable practices and golf facility management.
• Experience in preparing detailed reports and managing budgets.
• Interest or experience in sustainability or environmental science.

Responsibilities

• Support implementation of England Golf sustainability plan.
• Coordinate education among stakeholders regarding sustainable practices.
• Assist with sustainability promotional campaigns.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Relationship Building

Customer Orientation

Sustainability Knowledge

Education

Degree in business, environmental sciences, environmental management, engineering, or sustainability

Tools

Spreadsheet Software

Word Processing Software

Presentation Software

Job description

Support the ongoing implementation and management of the sustainability plan, in line with the England Golf Strategy 2025-2030 – strategic goal to ‘educate & influence on sustainability’.

Working Relationships:

Internal:

• Head of Sustainability – regular communication & engagement.
• Development & Membership team (RMs & CCSOs) – communication & support.
• Communication team – to support specific campaigns & engagement.
• Unified Counties, Unions & Associations – communication & promotion.
• Golf clubs – communication with paid workforce & volunteers.

External:

• GB&I sustainability group – stakeholder engagement, including Home Nations.
• The R&A – aligning sustainability planning & messaging.
• Member organisations such as BIGGA, GCMA - to advocate to workforce.
• Other key stakeholders and organisations – as per alignment to the plan.

Main Duties & Responsibilities:

• Support the implementation of the England Golf sustainability plan 2025-2030.
• Coordinate the connectivity and education of internal stakeholders, counties, and golf clubs in line with the sustainability plan.
• Contribute to a sustainability promotional & advocacy campaign aligned to the plan, working closely with the communications team.
• Assist the Head of Sustainability in collaborating with the R&A on sustainability projects, including Golf Course 2030.
• Support initiatives to reduce carbon emissions across the organization, including championships/events, in collaboration with consultants and colleagues.
• Support the National Golf Centre (NGC) team to ensure sustainable practices are identified and implemented across the business.
• Identify opportunities to make the workplace greener, working closely with Human Resources.
• Educate and support the Development & Membership team to provide guidance for golf clubs on key issues (water, energy, biodiversity).
• Assist with the England Golf annual awards in the sustainability category.
• Contribute to the sustainability annual operational & financial plan, including cascading the plan at a local level.
• Deputise for the Head of Sustainability as needed.
• Perform other duties as reasonably requested.

Dimensions/Resources:

Staff:

• N/A
• Support with budget control where required.

Administrative:

• Engage in external meetings with stakeholders, groups & organizations.
• Support the GB&I Sustainability group and internal sustainability working group.
• Participate in team meetings, staff meetings, and present at county/club updates & workshops as needed.

Location:

England Golf Headquarters, Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire, with hybrid working or potential to work from home. If working remotely, it is expected to spend at least 2-3 days every 2 weeks at the headquarters.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Sufficient educational attainment demonstrating ability to perform the role to the required standard.
• Sound understanding of golf facility management and sustainable practices.
• Ability to build and sustain relationships with staff, volunteers, and partners.
• Ability to empower and influence others.
• Experience in preparing detailed reports.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Excellent communication skills, including public speaking.
• Proficiency in spreadsheet, word processing, and presentation software.
• Friendly, supportive, and customer-oriented attitude.
• Clear and accurate communication, using appropriate language.
• Confidence and social skills for external representation.
• Commitment to diversity and equal opportunities.
• Interest or experience in sustainability, business management, or environmental science.
• Proven budget management skills.
• Valid driver’s license for travel.
• Degree in business, environmental sciences, environmental management, engineering, or sustainability.
• Experience in carbon footprinting.
• Understanding of national, regional, and county sport structures.
• Knowledge of golf structures (general, club-based).
• Experience in business, sport, government, or NGO sectors.