Interim Chief Sustainability Officer (Maternity Cover)

Are you a passionate sustainability leader ready to make an immediate impact at the executive level? Our client, a leading international financial institution, is seeking an accomplished Interim Chief Sustainability Officer to drive its ambitious sustainability agenda during a key period of maternity cover.

About the Opportunity
This is a high-profile, fixed-term role (12–18 months) reporting directly to the UK Chief Executive Officer and working closely with the Group CEO. You will steer the group’s sustainability strategy, oversee a multi-country team, and ensure the organisation remains at the forefront of sustainable finance and responsible business practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute the group-wide sustainability strategy, aligning with global objectives and regulatory requirements.
• Manage and mentor a small and diverse sustainability team, fostering collaboration and high performance.
• Support the development and delivery of sustainable finance products and services, working closely with business and product teams.
• Oversee the Sustainable Finance Register and monitor group-wide sustainability KPIs.
• Lead all sustainability-related reporting and disclosures, including regulatory and voluntary frameworks (e.g., S&P CSA, ISSB, Principles for Responsible Banking).
• Chair and support governance committees, including the Board Sustainability & Climate Change Committee and Sustainability Council.
• Champion sustainability training and stakeholder engagement across the business.
• Ensure best-in-class sustainability frameworks, policies, and methodologies are in place and continuously improved.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in a senior sustainability or ESG leadership role within financial services or a related regulated sector.
• Track record of designing and delivering sustainable finance solutions and strategies.
• Strong understanding of sustainability reporting, regulatory frameworks, and risk management.
• Excellent team leadership skills, with experience managing multi-location teams.
• Outstanding communication and influencing abilities; comfortable presenting to executive committees and external stakeholders.
• Analytical, strategic, and solutions-focused mindset.
• Experience in or exposure to the Middle East sustainability landscape is highly desirable.
• Master’s degree in a relevant field and evidence of ongoing professional development.

Contract & Benefits

• Fixed-term contract or day rate arrangement, with highly competitive compensation (£150,000–£200,000 base plus completion bonus.
• Hybrid working model based in London; exceptional candidates based in the Middle East may be considered.
• Immediate start preferred, with a comprehensive handover from the outgoing CSO.

Why Join?
This is a rare opportunity to shape the sustainability agenda of a business recognised for its commitment to responsible finance and positive global impact. You’ll work alongside visionary leaders and play a pivotal role in advancing sustainable finance across international markets.

All applications will be handled in strict confidence.