Head of ESG
Location: Berlin, Germany
Salary: €120,000 - €150,000 per annum (depending on experience)
Job Type: Full-time, Hybrid (with regular travel across European markets)

Job Description and Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Head of ESG to join the leadership team of a leading FMCG retail company specialising in clothing and home accessories products. Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer, this role offers an exceptional opportunity to influence and lead the ESG agenda across a rapidly growing retail business with a significant presence across Europe. Based in Germany, you will have the flexibility to work remotely, while being expected to travel regularly to other European markets to drive the company's sustainability goals.

In this role, you will oversee the development, execution, and continuous improvement of ESG strategies across all markets, driving the company’s commitment to environmental, social, and governance excellence. You will play a critical role in embedding sustainability across the entire value chain, from sourcing through to customer engagement.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Development:
- Lead the development and ongoing refinement of the company’s ESG strategy, ensuring it is integrated across all business units.
- Drive the integration of ESG principles into product sourcing, supply chain management, operational practices, and customer engagement.
- Work closely with the executive leadership team to set ambitious ESG goals and targets that align with the company’s vision for sustainable growth.
Governance & Stakeholder Engagement:
- Chair key ESG and sustainability committees, engaging with senior leadership and the Board to provide expert advice and drive strategic decisions.
- Act as the company’s ESG ambassador, both internally and externally, representing the business in relevant forums, conferences, and industry events.
Compliance & Reporting:
- Oversee compliance with EU and international ESG regulations, ensuring the company’s adherence to standards such as the CSRD, EU Taxonomy, and other emerging frameworks.
- Lead ESG reporting efforts, including data governance, performance tracking, and external disclosures, ensuring transparency and alignment with global ESG reporting standards (e.g., GRI, TCFD, CDP).
Sustainability Integration:
- Integrate ESG considerations into all aspects of the business, from sourcing and production to operations and customer engagement.
- Drive the implementation of ESG risk management strategies, KPI development, and performance tracking systems.
Internal Culture & Training:
- Lead efforts to build a robust internal ESG culture by providing training, resources, and support across all functions.
- Promote a culture of accountability and sustainability, ensuring that all employees understand their role in achieving the company’s ESG objectives.

Qualifications

Experience:
- At least 10 years of experience in ESG or corporate sustainability leadership roles, with a preference for candidates from retail or consumer goods sectors.
- Proven experience in working with international supply chains, particularly those based in Asia or other regions with complex sourcing networks.
- Demonstrable track record of managing ESG reporting, risk management, and governance in a large, fast-paced business environment.
Knowledge & Skills:
- Extensive knowledge of EU ESG regulations, including CSRD, EU Taxonomy, SFDR, and other key compliance frameworks.
- Expertise in ESG reporting standards, including GRI, TCFD, and CDP.
- Strong leadership and stakeholder engagement skills, with a proven ability to influence senior leaders and external partners.
- Data-driven and analytical, with a keen ability to track performance and drive continuous improvement.
Languages:
- Fluent in English (additional European languages are a plus).
Travel:
- Willingness to travel across Europe to oversee ESG initiatives and engage with stakeholders.

What the Organisation Offers

Opportunity to lead and influence the ESG strategy of a rapidly growing retail business with a significant presence across Europe.
Continuous learning and growth within a forward-thinking organisation committed to sustainability.
A competitive salary package between €120,000 and €150,000 per annum, based on experience.
Hybrid work model with regular visits to the HQ in Germany, fostering a balance between autonomy and team collaboration.
Flexibility to manage work and travel commitments while maintaining a strong team connection.

Apply now or explore more Head of ESG job opportunities.

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