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
Senior Sustainability Communications Specialist (L3)
3-5 yearsSkills to master
- Leading end-to-end reporting projects, mentoring junior colleagues, managing specific data streams, and presenting to internal stakeholders. You'll need to show you can own a significant chunk of the reporting process.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully managed the production of a major report (e.g., TCFD) from start to finish.
- Consistently received positive feedback on your ability to mentor and guide less experienced team members.
- Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills when faced with complex data or communication challenges.
- Proactively identified and implemented process improvements that saved time or improved accuracy.
- 2
ESG Analyst / Consultant from a Big Four Firm
4-7 yearsSkills to master
- Deep understanding of various reporting frameworks, experience with materiality assessments, and exposure to different corporate reporting challenges. You'll need to translate that consulting experience into practical, in-house leadership.
You're ready to move on when
- Led multiple client engagements focused on ESG reporting or strategy.
- Developed strong client relationship management skills, translating to internal stakeholder influence.
- Proven ability to manage complex projects with tight deadlines.
- Demonstrated ability to quickly adapt to new company cultures and internal processes.
- 3
Corporate Communications Manager (with ESG focus)
5-8 yearsSkills to master
- Strong corporate storytelling, media relations, and crisis communications experience, specifically applied to ESG topics. You'll need to deepen your understanding of the technical reporting frameworks and data requirements.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully managed communications for significant corporate initiatives, including those with an ESG component.
- Demonstrated ability to craft compelling narratives for diverse audiences (media, employees, investors).
- Experience navigating sensitive or high-stakes communication challenges.
- Proactively sought out opportunities to learn about and apply ESG principles in previous roles.