Tips & Tricks for an ESG and Sustainability Career
Nov 1, 2023
auto_awesome
Nikita Singhal, Co-head of sustainable investment & ESG at Lazard Asset Management, discusses key skills and career paths in ESG and sustainability. They explore the importance of finding the intersection between functional expertise and sustainability, share personal journeys into the field, and highlight the benefits of unconventional career paths. They also recommend resources and certifications for pursuing a career in ESG and sustainability, along with book recommendations in the space.
There are diverse career opportunities in ESG and sustainability across corporate sustainability, financial sector, academia, data analytics, and certifications.
For successful career transitions into ESG and sustainability, individuals should leverage existing skills, seek opportunities within organizations, and demonstrate interest in the field.
Deep dives
Career Opportunities in ESG and Sustainability
There are a wide range of career opportunities in the field of ESG and sustainability, and it's important to understand the different types of roles and industries where sustainability can be applied. Some potential areas of focus include corporate sustainability roles, where companies are becoming major drivers of positive impact in areas such as supply chain sustainability. The financial sector also offers opportunities, including roles at asset owners like foundations and pension funds, as well as intermediaries like banks and consultants. Beyond these areas, there are also opportunities in academia, data analytics, and certifications such as the CFA ESG certification. Overall, it's important to have a functional skill set that complements sustainability expertise and to continuously upskill and stay informed about the latest trends in the field.
Navigating Career Transitions in ESG and Sustainability
For individuals looking to transition into ESG and sustainability later in their careers, it can be helpful to leverage existing skills and expertise. This could involve transferring functional skills, such as auditing, into sustainability-focused roles, like auditing sustainability reports or tracing supply chains for sustainability. Additionally, it can be beneficial to seek opportunities within an organization, such as volunteering on ESG projects or gradually increasing the percentage of time dedicated to ESG-related work. By building experience and demonstrating interest in the field, individuals can position themselves for successful career transitions.
Upskilling and Continuous Learning in ESG and Sustainability
As the field of ESG and sustainability rapidly evolves, it is crucial for professionals to upskill and stay updated on the latest trends and knowledge. This can involve pursuing certifications like the CFA ESG certification, enrolling in master's programs in sustainability, or attending workshops and courses related to sustainability topics. Reading relevant thought leadership, such as books like John Doerr's 'Speed and Scale' and Bill Gates' 'How to Avoid a Climate Disaster,' can also help professionals deepen their understanding of key issues and solutions. By actively seeking out opportunities for upskilling and continuous learning, professionals can stay at the forefront of the field and contribute effectively to the sustainability agenda.
The Non-linear Nature of Careers in ESG and Sustainability
It's important to recognize that careers in ESG and sustainability are rarely linear and can involve unexpected twists and turns. Rather than focusing solely on climbing the career ladder, it is crucial to build for the long term by developing a breadth of knowledge, building transferable skills, and nurturing long-term relationships. Embracing a mindset of resilience and adaptability, professionals in this field can navigate the changing landscape and seize opportunities as they arise. Taking risks, such as stepping back to gain new experiences or pursue passion projects, can lead to unexpected career advancements and fulfillment.
Given the wide swath of ESG and sustainability topics, breaking into the industry and navigating a career in the field and finding a niche often leaves people with many unanswered questions. On this episode of the ESG Currents podcast, Nikita Singhal, co-head of sustainable investment & ESG at Lazard Asset Management, joins Bloomberg Intelligence analyst Shaheen Contractor to discuss key required skills, gaps and how one can navigate a career in ESG at different stages — breaking into the industry, midcareer transitions and seasoned professionals expanding skillsets.
