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ESG Manager

FirstPort (UK) • United Kingdom • Added on Sep 22, 2026
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As the ESG Manager at FirstPort, you will be the operational linchpin for the division’s sustainability ambitions, moving strategy from high-level goals to ground-level implementation. You will own the translation of group-wide climate and social objectives into actionable plans, ensuring that ESG criteria are no longer separate considerations but are fully baked into daily operations and procurement. Your day-to-day will involve auditing divisional risks and opportunities while acting as a vital advisor to leadership on how to drive long-term value.

This role matters because residential property management sits at the intersection of environmental footprint and community wellbeing. By embedding carbon accounting and social value frameworks into the management of thousands of homes, you directly influence the decarbonization of the UK’s housing stock and the quality of life for residents. You are the catalyst for cultural change in an industry historically focused on bricks and mortar, shifting the needle toward a truly regenerative built environment.

This suits someone who is a pragmatic strategist, comfortable with complex data sets but even more skilled at influencing diverse teams to embrace behavioral change. You should thrive in a role that balances technical reporting with high-level commercial advocacy.

Job FAQs

What are the main missions and responsibilities of this role?

The primary mission is to translate group-level ESG ambitions into divisional action plans that have clear, measurable targets. You will be responsible for identifying specific environmental and social impacts within the property management lifecycle and designing mitigation strategies. Operationally, you will drive the integration of sustainability into governance and decision-making processes. This includes monitoring performance against KPIs, contributing to external disclosures, and supporting the business development team with ESG expertise during commercial bids.

Key learning opportunities for this job

Candidates will gain deep exposure to leading ESG reporting frameworks such as TCFD, CSRD, and the GHG Protocol within a real-world operational setting. This is a chance to move beyond theoretical sustainability and master the practicalities of carbon accounting in a complex, multi-site portfolio. You will also develop change management expertise, learning how to shift corporate culture and operational habits in a legacy industry. The role offers mentorship from the Head of ESG and participation in a high-level ESG Steering Group.

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

The ideal profile possesses a strong foundation in carbon accounting and environmental data management, likely supported by a degree in environmental science or a professional ISEP certification. Experience in professional or facility services is a significant advantage, as is a track record of translating strategy into operational delivery. Soft skills are paramount; you must be a persuasive communicator capable of explaining complex climate risks to stakeholders who may not have a sustainability background. A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset is essential for identifying value-creation opportunities where others might only see compliance risks.

Advice to stand out and make a successful application

To stand out, demonstrate your ability to bridge the gap between data and action. In your application, provide specific examples of how you have used ESG metrics to influence a business decision or improve an operational process. Research FirstPort’s role in the UK residential sector and consider how ESG impacts Resident Management Companies (RMCs). Showing an understanding of the unique social value challenges in property management, such as community engagement and resident safety, will set you apart from generalist candidates.

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

The role focuses heavily on decarbonizing the built environment and achieving Net Zero targets across a vast residential portfolio. This includes energy efficiency initiatives and improving environmental performance data collection at the site level. Social value is the other major pillar, focusing on community impact and customer wellbeing. You will likely work on projects that improve the social fabric of the managed properties, ensuring that the 'S' in ESG is as strongly managed as the 'E'.

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

One of the main challenges will be data fragmentation across a wide variety of properties and stakeholders. Collecting accurate, verifiable carbon and social data from multiple sites and third-party contractors requires significant persistence and methodological rigor. Additionally, you may face internal resistance to changing established operational workflows. Success requires navigating the tension between immediate commercial pressures and long-term sustainability goals, requiring high levels of emotional intelligence and diplomatic negotiation.

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

A typical day might begin with a review of environmental performance data for a specific division, followed by a meeting with the Procurement team to discuss sustainable sourcing standards. You might then shift to a planning session for a new social value initiative intended for residents. Afternoons are often spent acting as a subject matter expert in divisional leadership meetings or drafting input for a major commercial bid. The day usually concludes with coordination calls with other divisional ESG leads to ensure alignment across the wider Group.

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

This role is positioned as a strategic advisor to the Divisional Leadership Team, providing high visibility within the company’s executive circles. Successful implementation of divisional plans could lead to more senior group-wide sustainability roles or operational leadership positions. As FirstPort is currently on an ambitious ESG journey, there is significant room to shape the scope of this role. You could eventually spearhead specific innovation projects or represent the company at industry bodies like ARMA or PMAS.

The main stakeholders you might be interacting with

You will interact frequently with the Divisional Leadership Team and the Head of ESG, ensuring that local actions align with global strategy. On the ground, you will collaborate with operational managers, procurement officers, and HR teams to embed sustainability into their daily routines. Externally, you will engage with clients, developers, and residents to communicate the value of FirstPort’s ESG initiatives. You will also coordinate with industry bodies and reporting agencies to ensure compliance and maintain the company's reputation for excellence.

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