Remote Chief Sustainability Officer — ESG Strategy Leader

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 3,500,000 - 6,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive pay

Stock options

Health benefits

Remote work

Home office

Professional development

Conferences

Coaching

Global team

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) to establish and lead a global sustainability strategy from anywhere in South Africa. This executive role focuses on embedding ESG across operations, driving climate action, circular economy, ethical sourcing, and community engagement, with strategic ties to Bloemfontein developments.

The CSO will lead a remote, distributed team, align with regulatory frameworks, and report to the Board.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Environmental Science, Sustainability, Business Admin, or related field.
• 12+ years in sustainability/ESG with 5+ years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record in developing and implementing corporate sustainability strategies.
• In-depth knowledge of global sustainability frameworks, reporting standards, and climate science.
• Ability to influence and engage C-suite and government stakeholders.
• Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills.
• Experience leading remote or distributed global teams.
• Strong understanding of the renewable energy sector.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a global sustainability strategy aligned with mission and long-term goals.
• Oversee ESG initiatives including climate risk, emissions targets, and energy efficiency.
• Integrate sustainability into decision-making, operations, and product development.
• Engage with investors, regulators, employees, and communities on sustainability matters.
• Ensure compliance with environmental and social regulations and reporting standards (GRI, TCFD).
• Drive innovation in renewable energy, circular economy, and sustainable supply chains.
• Develop and manage the sustainability budget and secure funding.
• Build and lead a high-performing sustainability team.
• Prepare and present regular sustainability reports to the Board and executives.
• Represent the company in sustainability forums and industry initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Strategic thinking

Sustainability reporting

Change management

Education

Master's or PhD in Environmental Science or related field

Tools

Sustainability reporting software

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) to establish and lead a global sustainability strategy from anywhere in South Africa. This executive role focuses on embedding ESG across operations, driving climate action, circular economy, ethical sourcing, and community engagement, with strategic ties to Bloemfontein developments.

The CSO will lead a remote, distributed team, align with regulatory frameworks, and report to the Board.