Sustainability Consultant

Job Overview

A Sustainability Consultant advises organisations on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategies, working directly with corporate responsibility and sustainability practitioners to implement and manage initiatives that improve a company’s impact and performance.

For someone just starting out as a Sustainability Consultant in the UK, earnings typically range from 25,000 to 35,000 pounds a year. With more experience, compensation can rise to between 40,000 and 70,000 pounds a year, or even higher for very senior roles. The number of jobs in this field is growing rapidly as businesses increasingly seek greener practices.

• Assess organisations’ environmental footprints and recommend strategies to reduce waste and energy use.
• Develop and deliver training programmes on recycling, energy saving, and sustainable procurement.
• Monitor and report on ESG performance, ensuring compliance with regulations and industry standards.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to embed sustainability into business processes.

Entry‑level salaries: £25,000–£35,000 per year. Experienced salaries: £40,000–£70,000 per year, with potential for higher earnings in senior positions.

Typical pathways include:

• University or college courses in Environmental Science, Geography, Sustainable Development, Engineering with an environmental focus, or related fields.
• Relevant units on corporate responsibility, sustainability, energy, logistics, economics, community development, or business management.

Apprenticeship options include:

• Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Practitioner Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship (2–3 years).
• Sustainability Business Specialist Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship (2–3 years).

• For undergraduate degrees: 2‑3 A levels or equivalent qualifications.
• For postgraduate programmes: a degree in any subject.
• For higher or degree apprenticeships: 4‑5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A*‑C) and A levels or equivalent.
• Experience in fundraising, community work, or volunteering is highly valued by employers.