A Sustainability Analyst will have a broad understanding of measuring and managing environmental and social impacts in a commercial context, supported by deeper knowledge of one or more areas such as net zero, supply chain sustainability, social impact or environmental, social and governance (ESG) reporting.
They will be responsible for researching, analysing and reporting on sustainability markers and indicators for an organisation.
The information in our job profiles aims to give a general overview of the role and a guideline to what it involves. The content is not intended to be exhaustive and roles will vary depending on the organisation and sector. The salary ranges are a guide only, as these are dependent on the size and location of the organisation.
To improve the future of the planet, sustainability integrates social science, environmental science, and civil engineering. The demand for highly educated professionals to research and adopt more sustainable practices is greater than ever.
Sustainability Analysts work with businesses and organisations to help them understand and improve their social and environmental impacts, weaving sustainable thinking into the fabric of commercial decisions. This can include dismantling the complexities around governance, compliance and targets, and also defining and building decarbonisation strategies and the processes, systems and frameworks that will help companies meet their sustainability goals.
By enabling good environmental decision-making and more ambitious target setting for positive environmental impacts in the future, Sustainability Analysts contribute to creating a more eco-friendly and socially responsible corporate landscape, aligning the organisation’s objectives with public demand for greener, more ethical business operations.
Technical knowledge
Transferable skills
Sustainability Analysts need the capacity to work on multiple projects simultaneously within tight deadlines, and to interpret insights from data to identify risks and opportunities. Sustainability Analysts need to be able to communicate complex technical information in a succinct and accessible way, through excellent oral and written skills as applied to presentations and written reports.
Sustainability Analysts are usually office-based, and sometimes may travel to sites on request for meetings. Typically, the role is full time, although may be offered on a contract basis depending on the employer and projects being undertaken.
The progression pathway for a Sustainability Analyst is promising. To strengthen your skills and experience consider obtaining certifications from or gain membership to the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA). Continue your professional learning and stay connected with other professionals and remain current on sustainability trends and best practices.
It may be that you further your career into the role of Senior Analyst as you strengthen your project management skills and are able to manage larger and more complex projects and teams of people.
Or you may work for institutions like the government, non-profits, and large enterprises in roles including Energy Analysts, Environmental Policy Analysts, or ESG Investment Strategists.
Sustainability Analysts are needed in businesses across all sectors and organisations, in both the public and the private sector.
Acclaro Advisory helps organisations maximise their performance by improving their environmental and social outcomes and supports them to achieve zero carbon and positive social impact.
IEMA is the membership body for environment and sustainability professionals
