The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Head of Corporate Communications / Public Affairs (with ESG focus)
16-20 years experienceSkills to master
- Deep expertise in media relations, crisis management, corporate narrative development, and stakeholder engagement, with a strong understanding of how ESG integrates into overall corporate reputation.
You're ready to move on when
- Proven ability to lead a corporate communications function for a large, complex organisation.
- Demonstrable experience managing high-profile reputational risks and crises.
- Track record of successfully influencing C-suite and Board on communication strategies.
- Experience integrating ESG messaging into broader corporate communications.
- 2
Director of Investor Relations (with ESG focus)
16-20 years experienceSkills to master
- Expertise in financial markets, investor engagement, financial reporting, and understanding how ESG factors influence investment decisions. Strong ability to articulate value proposition to the financial community.
You're ready to move on when
- Extensive experience engaging with institutional investors and financial analysts.
- Proven ability to articulate complex financial and non-financial performance metrics.
- Strong understanding of capital markets and investor expectations regarding ESG.
- Experience developing and delivering investor presentations and roadshows.
- 3
Lead ESG Communications Strategist / Manager (from a large, global firm)
12-16 years experience (often a step up from Manager level)Skills to master
- Deep, hands-on experience in all aspects of ESG reporting, narrative development, and stakeholder engagement, having led major reporting cycles and managed significant projects. Ready for broader strategic accountability.
You're ready to move on when
- Successful track record of leading end-to-end ESG reporting cycles for a global company.
- Demonstrable experience managing relationships with ESG ratings agencies.
- Proven ability to mentor and develop junior team members.
- Strong grasp of global ESG regulatory landscape and emerging trends.