Global Net Zero Strategy Lead

cw; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 135,000 - 159,000; Full time

Job summary

Cushman & Wakefield is seeking a Senior Manager, Climate Strategy to lead the firm’s net zero commitments and SBTs. You will own strategy, governance, and emissions reduction initiatives across the global operations and value chain.

You will manage a Net Zero Analyst and collaborate with Real Estate, Procurement, Finance, HR, and business lines to embed sustainability. Strong data, reporting, and communication skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Strategic leader with ability to translate data into actionable sustainability insights.
• Proven experience managing cross-functional programs and change initiatives.
• Advanced analytical and data management capabilities (Excel, Power BI, or similar).
• Experience in sustainability, ESG, climate strategy, or related field.
• Experience in commercial real estate or professional services preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of enterprise-wide Net Zero and SBT strategy, including roadmap development and execution planning.
• Develop and manage decarbonization initiatives across operations, supply chain, business travel, and real estate portfolio.
• Support governance processes and KPI frameworks to ensure integrity and auditable performance tracking.
• Partner cross-functionally with Real Estate, Procurement, Finance, HR, and business lines to embed sustainability into operations.
• Oversee Scope 1, 2, and 3 GHG emissions accounting, ensuring alignment with GHG Protocol standards.
• Oversee climate-related technology stack including GHG accounting tools, APIs, energy/building tools.
• Lead environmental disclosures including CDP, GRI, SBTi and annual reporting.
• Support business development and client engagement with sustainability thought leadership.
• Build and lead education and change management initiatives across the organization.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Leadership

Communication skills

Analytical thinking

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Master’s degree or certifications preferred

Tools

Excel

Power BI

GHG accounting tools

Job description

Cushman & Wakefield is seeking a Senior Manager, Climate Strategy to lead the firm’s net zero commitments and SBTs. You will own strategy, governance, and emissions reduction initiatives across the global operations and value chain.

You will manage a Net Zero Analyst and collaborate with Real Estate, Procurement, Finance, HR, and business lines to embed sustainability. Strong data, reporting, and communication skills are essential.