Head of Sustainability

At Colas Rail, we have over one hundred years of experience in delivering major innovations across our sector. Every day, thousands of train run on tracks built or maintained by Colas Rail. We deliver on the challenges set by a rapidly changing railway environment - constantly seeking to adapt our behaviour and culture to not only meet and exceed the expectations of our customers and stakeholders, but to also continuously develop and support our people.

Purpose of the Role  

Colas Rail UK, one of the rail industry's biggest and most prestigious contractors, is seeking a talented individual to join our team as the Head of Sustainability. We are looking for someone who is passionate about sustainability and can drive our efforts to integrate sustainable practices into all aspects of our business.

The purpose of the Head of Sustainability role is to lead and oversee sustainability efforts within Colas Rail UK. The Head of Sustainability is responsible for leading, developing and implementing sustainable strategies and initiatives that align with the company's values and goals. The role will work across different departments of the business, such as operations, supply chain, product development, and corporate social responsibility. The Head of Sustainability also plays a key role in measuring and reporting on the organisation's sustainability performance, engaging internal and external stakeholders, and driving continuous improvement in environmental, social, and governance practices.

Key Responsibilities  

Lead and advocate for sustainability within the organisation, both internally and externally.
Develop a sustainability strategy aligned with company goals and values.
Monitor and report on sustainability performance, ensuring compliance with regulations and reporting frameworks.
Input into large scale tenders and bids, working with colleagues from across the wider business units.
Oversee environmental initiatives, including energy efficiency, waste reduction, and emissions reduction.
Promote social responsibility within the organisation, addressing diversity and inclusion, labour practices, and community engagement.
Collaborate with stakeholders to gain support for sustainability initiatives.
Stay updated on emerging sustainability trends and technologies and identify opportunities for innovation.
Embed sustainability into processes and decision making, and coach decision makers to manage complex trade-offs. Person Specification  

Degree or equivalent in Sustainability, Environmental Science, Business Administration, or a related field.
In-depth understanding of sustainability principles, concepts, and practices.
Knowledge of environmental regulations and sustainability frameworks.
Familiarity with sustainable business practices, renewable energy, waste management, and resource efficiency.
Strong leadership and strategic thinking skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Experience in stakeholder management and engagement.
Proven experience in managing sustainability projects and measuring performance.
Ability to prioritise and manage multiple projects simultaneously.  

At Colas Rail UK, we value diversity and are committed to promoting equality and eliminating discrimination. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and can offer flexible and inclusive adjustments to the interview process.  

Don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of colour are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single qualification.  At Colas Rail UK, we are committed to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace for everyone, so if you are excited about this role but your background or experience doesn't meet the description exactly, we would encourage you to apply anyway.  You might be just who we are looking for.

What we offer  

Competitive Salary
34 days annual leave (inclusive of public holidays)
Company funded Job Use Van
Business fuel card* (for business fuel purchases only)
Industry leading Life Assurance
Healthcare Cash Plan
Wellbeing Employee Assistant Programme
Pension Scheme
Eye Care Vouchers
Long Service Award
Season Ticket Loan
Occupational Health Service