Head of Sustainability & Environment

Location: OCU Greater London, England, United Kingdom

Are you ready to shape the future of sustainability across a major UK operation?

At OCU, sustainability isn’t a side project; it’s fundamental to how we operate, grow, and deliver for our clients and communities. We are proud to be at the forefront of environmental responsibility across the UK’s infrastructure and utilities sectors, and we’re now looking for an exceptional Head of Sustainability & Environment to help drive our ambition even further. The role is based in Stockport or Borehamwood, with hybrid working and UK-wide travel.

Working closely with the Group Sustainability Director and senior UK leadership teams, you’ll ensure compliance, inspire innovation, and place sustainability at the heart of how OCU wins work, delivers projects, and leaves a positive legacy.

About the role

As the Head of Sustainability & Environment, you will act as a strategic leader, trusted advisor, and passionate advocate for sustainability across the UK business.

• Lead the development and delivery of the UK Sustainability Action Plan, embedding environmental excellence, social responsibility, and long-term sustainable growth across all UK operations and projects.
• Chair the UK Sustainability Taskforce, providing clear governance, accountability, and momentum.
• Lead UK ESG and sustainability reporting, supported by robust digital systems and aligned with Group and client requirements.
• Own and deliver the UK decarbonisation plan, aligned with OCU’s Science‑Based Targets and long‑term climate commitments.
• Lead, develop, and inspire a high‑performing team of sustainability and environmental professionals.
• Partner with operational and commercial leaders to ensure projects and contracts are appropriately resourced for sustainability success.
• Develop and continually improve the UK Environmental Management System, maintaining ISO 14001 compliance and Group standards.
• Build strong external relationships with regulators and stakeholders including the EA, SEPA, DEFRA, and relevant NGOs.

About you

• Practitioner (or higher) membership of the Institute of Sustainability & Environmental Professionals (ISEP).
• A degree in Environmental Science, Sustainability, or a related discipline.
• Extensive experience implementing, managing, and auditing ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems.
• A proven track record of developing and delivering sustainability and decarbonisation strategies.
• Strong leadership and influencing skills, with the confidence to engage at all levels.
• A coaching and mentoring mindset, committed to developing high‑performing teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present to senior stakeholders.
• A structured, analytical, and solutions‑focused approach.
• A genuine commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable growth.

Driven by values, powered by inclusion

At OCU, our values guide everything we do: integrity, collaboration, respect, innovation, and one company united. They shape how we work with our clients, communities, and each other. We believe that inclusion is more than a principle—it’s the foundation of our success. By embracing equity and ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to thrive, we create a workplace where diverse perspectives are valued and everyone feels they belong.

We welcome people with diverse backgrounds to join a culture where values matter and inclusion is at the heart of everything we do. Apply now and help us shape the future together.

Any reasonable adjustments you require to support you during the recruitment process, please let us know. Any information you share will be treated confidentially and used only to support you during recruitment.