Sustainability Strategy and Research Lead - SNG (Sovereign Network Group) : Job Details

At Sovereign Network Group (SNG), we're on a mission to create sustainable homes, places, and communities where people can thrive.

We're now looking for an experienced Sustainability Strategy & Research Lead to help us turn ambition into action.

The role:

In this pivotal role, you'll be the driving force behind the delivery of SNG's Sustainability Strategy — ensuring it's embedded in our operations, culture, and long-term planning. You'll:

• Develop and implement actionable, measurable delivery plans that achieve our environmental goals.
• Work closely with colleagues across SNG to coordinate and align sustainability activities.
• Lead on sustainability reporting, including the Sustainability Reporting Standard for Social Housing (SRS) and other recognised frameworks such as TCFD.
• Shape KPIs and stretch targets to measure our progress and impact.
• Provide expert guidance on environmental issues, influencing strategy and decision-making at all levels.
• Champion green thinking across the organisation, working with our Green Group to embed environmental responsibility into everyday practice.
• Horizon-scan emerging sustainability trends, making recommendations to keep SNG at the forefront of sector leadership.
• Lead an annual research programme that supports public policy and drives innovation (SNGi).

About SNGi

SNGi is our in-house hub for big ideas and fresh thinking. It's where we explore how to shape the future of social housing, from innovative sustainability models to in-depth studies on our environmental impact. Through research, insight, and collaboration with internal experts and external consultants, SNGi aims to publish several thought-leading papers each year and hosts a series of high-profile events for stakeholders, influencing how our sector is governed.

As the creative engine of SNGi, you'll not only spark new ideas but also bring them to life — coordinating everything from research and writing to events and industry engagement.

About you:

You'll be a confident communicator, skilled at building relationships, influencing stakeholders, and turning strategy into results. You'll also bring:

• Proven experience delivering sustainability strategies and plans.
• Knowledge of UK environmental legislation and current best practice.
• Strong numeracy and the ability to explain complex environmental issues simply and persuasively.
• The confidence to challenge constructively and encourage innovation.
• Attention to detail and the ability to meet deadlines under pressure.

Your Benefits:

We have some great benefits at SNG, including:

• 25 Days Holiday Bank Holidays (with an extra day every year up to 30 days)
• Chance to buy or sell holiday as part of our flexible benefits package
• 3 additional Wellbeing days and 2 paid volunteering days
• Generous matched pension scheme up to 12% and Life cover at 4x salary
• Enhanced maternity/adoption pay
• Enhanced paternity pay - 6 weeks full pay (after 26 weeks' service)
• Options for private medical insurance, dental insurance and critical illness cover
• Wellbeing discounts, including Gym Memberships and access to a 24/7 virtual GP service

We offer flexible working, professional development opportunities, and a chance to be part of something meaningful. We're passionate about inclusion for all and creating a workplace where everyone can thrive.

Why join us?

At SNG, we don't just talk about sustainability — we live it. You'll be part of a collaborative, forward-thinking team making a real difference for communities and the planet. We offer a competitive salary, generous benefits, and hybrid working, alongside a culture that values trust, inclusion, and personal growth.

If you're ready to champion sustainability and help shape the future of social housing, we'd love to hear from you.