Q: What are the main missions and responsibilities of this role?

The primary mission is to lead and manage the carbon strategy for the South Wales Trunk Road Agent (SWTRA). You will be responsible for developing a comprehensive program aimed at reducing energy consumption and the overall carbon footprint of the organization's property, fleet, and highway assets. Day-to-day duties involve providing technical expertise on climate change science and policy , ensuring all operations align with international standards and Welsh Government targets. You will also be tasked with monitoring legislative changes and identifying their specific impacts on highway maintenance and improvement projects. Beyond strategy, you will proactively develop business cases and funding bids . Securing external investment is critical for implementing sustainable interventions and technological upgrades across the road network's infrastructure.

Q: Key learning opportunities for this job

In this role, you will gain significant expertise in public-sector climate policy , specifically within the context of the Welsh Government’s ambitious decarbonization frameworks. This offers a deep dive into how national environmental mandates are translated into regional operational realities. You will also have the opportunity to master infrastructure-scale carbon accounting . Working across diverse asset classes like heavy fleet and motorway lighting systems provides a technical breadth rarely found in standard corporate sustainability roles. Additionally, the position offers exposure to large-scale stakeholder management and government funding mechanisms. You will learn to navigate complex organizational boundaries and build partnerships that drive meaningful environmental interventions in a high-visibility public service environment.

Q: How does the ideal candidate look like (experience, skills)?

The ideal candidate should have a strong background in environmental science or carbon management , coupled with a proven track record of implementing decarbonization strategies. Familiarity with the science and technologies associated with climate change mitigation is essential for success in this technical post. You should possess strong analytical skills to monitor and interpret changes in legislation and policy. The ability to translate these complex requirements into clear business cases for funding is a highly valued skill for this position. Soft skills are equally important; we look for a candidate who is a natural collaborator . The ability to build networks and influence stakeholders across different service areas is vital for ensuring the carbon strategy is adopted at every level of the organization.

Q: What aspects of the company's sustainability is this role likely to focus on?

This role focuses heavily on scope 1 and 2 emissions reduction through the optimization of property and fleet energy use. You will likely spend a significant portion of your time investigating renewable energy solutions for highway infrastructure and low-carbon alternatives for maintenance vehicles. There is also a strong focus on governance and policy alignment . You will ensure that every project undertaken by SWTRA contributes toward the broader goal of a 'greener' road network, balancing transport needs with environmental preservation. Furthermore, sustainable asset management is a core pillar. This includes looking at the lifecycle of highway materials and property maintenance to ensure that long-term environmental interventions are integrated into the Agent's portfolio management.

Q: What are the main challenges someone in this role might face?

One of the main challenges will be balancing operational efficiency with carbon reduction goals. Maintaining a strategic road network is inherently resource-intensive, and finding low-carbon solutions that do not compromise safety or reliability requires constant innovation. You may also face the challenge of securing funding in a competitive public-sector environment. Developing compelling business cases that justify the initial cost of green technology through long-term environmental and social benefits will be a recurring task. Additionally, stakeholder buy-in can be difficult when implementing new, sustainable methods of working that deviate from long-standing practices. Navigating these cultural and operational shifts within a technical, engineering-heavy environment requires patience and persuasive communication.

Q: How could a typical day look like for someone in this position?

A typical day might begin with reviewing energy performance data across the agent’s property and fleet to identify areas for improvement. You could then transition into a meeting with highway engineers to discuss the implementation of sustainable materials in an upcoming road improvement project. Afternoons might be spent analyzing new legislative updates from the Welsh Government, ensuring that SWTRA’s strategy remains compliant and proactive. You will likely spend time drafting proposals or bids for external funding to support new carbon reduction initiatives. Your day will often involve cross-departmental collaboration , whether that is speaking with procurement teams about green fleet options or updating senior management on progress toward Net Zero targets. The role is a mix of high-level strategy and practical technical guidance.

Q: The main stakeholders you might be interacting with

The most frequent interactions will be with Welsh Government officials , as you will be the primary point of contact for ensuring alignment with national carbon reduction targets and policy mandates. Internally, you will work closely with asset and fleet managers to implement the carbon strategy on the ground. These technical experts will rely on your guidance to transition toward more sustainable operational methods and technologies. Externally, you will interact with funding bodies and partner organizations across the South Wales transport sector. Building a strong network with these stakeholders is essential for securing the resources and collaborative support needed to deliver a truly Net Zero road network.

Question 1

What are the main missions and responsibilities of this role?

Accepted Answer

The primary mission is to lead and manage the carbon strategy for the South Wales Trunk Road Agent (SWTRA). You will be responsible for developing a comprehensive program aimed at reducing energy consumption and the overall carbon footprint of the organization's property, fleet, and highway assets. Day-to-day duties involve providing technical expertise on climate change science and policy, ensuring all operations align with international standards and Welsh Government targets. You will also be tasked with monitoring legislative changes and identifying their specific impacts on highway maintenance and improvement projects. Beyond strategy, you will proactively develop business cases and funding bids. Securing external investment is critical for implementing sustainable interventions and technological upgrades across the road network's infrastructure.

Question 2

Key learning opportunities for this job

Accepted Answer

In this role, you will gain significant expertise in public-sector climate policy, specifically within the context of the Welsh Government’s ambitious decarbonization frameworks. This offers a deep dive into how national environmental mandates are translated into regional operational realities. You will also have the opportunity to master infrastructure-scale carbon accounting. Working across diverse asset classes like heavy fleet and motorway lighting systems provides a technical breadth rarely found in standard corporate sustainability roles. Additionally, the position offers exposure to large-scale stakeholder management and government funding mechanisms. You will learn to navigate complex organizational boundaries and build partnerships that drive meaningful environmental interventions in a high-visibility public service environment.

Question 3

How does the ideal candidate look like (experience, skills)?

Accepted Answer

The ideal candidate should have a strong background in environmental science or carbon management, coupled with a proven track record of implementing decarbonization strategies. Familiarity with the science and technologies associated with climate change mitigation is essential for success in this technical post. You should possess strong analytical skills to monitor and interpret changes in legislation and policy. The ability to translate these complex requirements into clear business cases for funding is a highly valued skill for this position. Soft skills are equally important; we look for a candidate who is a natural collaborator. The ability to build networks and influence stakeholders across different service areas is vital for ensuring the carbon strategy is adopted at every level of the organization.

Question 4

Advice to stand out and make a successful application

Accepted Answer

To stand out, your application should demonstrate a clear understanding of the Welsh Government’s carbon reduction targets and how they apply specifically to transport and infrastructure. Mentioning specific policies like the Net Zero Wales plan will show you have done your homework. Highlight your experience in asset management, specifically how you have previously reduced carbon footprints in physical environments like property or fleet. Evidence of successful funding bids or business cases for sustainable projects will significantly strengthen your profile. Finally, emphasize your stakeholder engagement experience. Since this role requires working across organizational boundaries, providing examples of how you have influenced diverse groups to adopt green initiatives will resonate with the hiring committee.

Question 5

What aspects of the company's sustainability is this role likely to focus on?

Accepted Answer

This role focuses heavily on scope 1 and 2 emissions reduction through the optimization of property and fleet energy use. You will likely spend a significant portion of your time investigating renewable energy solutions for highway infrastructure and low-carbon alternatives for maintenance vehicles. There is also a strong focus on governance and policy alignment. You will ensure that every project undertaken by SWTRA contributes toward the broader goal of a 'greener' road network, balancing transport needs with environmental preservation. Furthermore, sustainable asset management is a core pillar. This includes looking at the lifecycle of highway materials and property maintenance to ensure that long-term environmental interventions are integrated into the Agent's portfolio management.

Question 6

What are the main challenges someone in this role might face?

Accepted Answer

One of the main challenges will be balancing operational efficiency with carbon reduction goals. Maintaining a strategic road network is inherently resource-intensive, and finding low-carbon solutions that do not compromise safety or reliability requires constant innovation. You may also face the challenge of securing funding in a competitive public-sector environment. Developing compelling business cases that justify the initial cost of green technology through long-term environmental and social benefits will be a recurring task. Additionally, stakeholder buy-in can be difficult when implementing new, sustainable methods of working that deviate from long-standing practices. Navigating these cultural and operational shifts within a technical, engineering-heavy environment requires patience and persuasive communication.

Question 7

How could a typical day look like for someone in this position?

Accepted Answer

A typical day might begin with reviewing energy performance data across the agent’s property and fleet to identify areas for improvement. You could then transition into a meeting with highway engineers to discuss the implementation of sustainable materials in an upcoming road improvement project. Afternoons might be spent analyzing new legislative updates from the Welsh Government, ensuring that SWTRA’s strategy remains compliant and proactive. You will likely spend time drafting proposals or bids for external funding to support new carbon reduction initiatives. Your day will often involve cross-departmental collaboration, whether that is speaking with procurement teams about green fleet options or updating senior management on progress toward Net Zero targets. The role is a mix of high-level strategy and practical technical guidance.

Question 8

What are the opportunities for professional growth and development in this role?

Accepted Answer

As a senior role within a specialized agency, there are excellent opportunities to become a recognized expert in infrastructure decarbonization. The high visibility of this role within the Welsh Government’s climate framework can lead to influential lateral moves or policy-advisory positions. There is also significant potential for professional development and training. The organization is committed to the growth of its employees, meaning you could pursue advanced certifications in carbon auditing or sustainable infrastructure management. Success in this role could lead to higher-level strategic positions within the broader transport or environmental sectors in Wales. Leading a successful carbon strategy for a major road agent is a significant achievement that opens doors to executive sustainability leadership.

Question 9

The main stakeholders you might be interacting with

Accepted Answer

The most frequent interactions will be with Welsh Government officials, as you will be the primary point of contact for ensuring alignment with national carbon reduction targets and policy mandates. Internally, you will work closely with asset and fleet managers to implement the carbon strategy on the ground. These technical experts will rely on your guidance to transition toward more sustainable operational methods and technologies. Externally, you will interact with funding bodies and partner organizations across the South Wales transport sector. Building a strong network with these stakeholders is essential for securing the resources and collaborative support needed to deliver a truly Net Zero road network.

Carbon & Net Zero Manager

Job FAQs

What are the main missions and responsibilities of this role?

Key learning opportunities for this job

How does the ideal candidate look like (experience, skills)?

Advice to stand out and make a successful application

What aspects of the company's sustainability is this role likely to focus on?

What are the main challenges someone in this role might face?

How could a typical day look like for someone in this position?

What are the opportunities for professional growth and development in this role?

The main stakeholders you might be interacting with

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