Scottish Canals are currently looking to recruit a Head of Sustainability. This is a new role and the successful candidate lead and drive Scottish Canals corporate social responsibility agenda specifically responding to climate and biodiversity crises and ensuring our work supports a just transition for communities. Priorities include developing strategy and proactive action on Net Zero Carbon, environment and biodiversity and canal heritage which deliver continuous improvements in performance and outcomes for Scottish Canals.
As a member of the Senior Management Group, the Head of Sustainability contributes to promoting Scottish Canals’ vision, values and reputation and contributing to the priorities identified through the Corporate Plan.
This critical role will have responsibility for:
• Developing strategies and action plans for Net Zero.
• Building partnerships which support Scottish Canals’ wider contribution to A Zero Nation, Biodiversity/Nature Positive, Circular Economy, and Natural Capital agendas.
• Creating sustainability programmes of projects to realise strategic intentions, mitigate risk and promote nature-based solutions whilst maintaining heritage canals assets.
• Identifying, leveraging and deploying additional funding streams that may be available including grants and other funding sources.
• Leading a team of three environment and heritage specialists and a budget of c. £500k per annum.
• Keeping abreast of all industry trends, developments and legislation.
• Defining KPIs and management information and reporting relating to sustainability driving continuous improvement.
Ideal candidates will demonstrate:
• Degree level or equivalent experience and professional qualifications.
• Extensive experience developing and delivering sustainability programmes demonstrating significant impact, knowledge of complying with related regulatory frameworks and standards such as ISO14001.
• A proven track record in building effective relationships that generate confidence, respect, and collaborative working at all levels, and at senior levels, operating with sensitivity and political acuity.
• Strong analytical skills, focused on evidence and insight, able to interpret and contextualise complex information and situations to identify solutions, shape guidance and advice, and embed good practice.
• Commitment to continuous improvement, innovation, and efficiency, taking responsibility for managing and improving all relevant standards, policies, processes, and governance relating to the role.
The role is offered on a permanent full-time basis, based on a blended working model from our Falkirk office and home working. The successful candidate will participate in a blended working model, working between home and our Falkirk office.
Scottish Canals also offers flexible working, a generous annual leave entitlement of 34 days rising to 39 after 5 years (inc. public holidays), along with enhanced company sick pay and a contributory pension scheme with up to a 10% employer contribution.
To apply candidates should submit the following:
• Cover letter highlighting your motivation for the post and including details of your current salary /remuneration package
• Up to date curriculum vitae
To apply, please go to: jobtrain.co.uk/scottishcanals