As organizations transition towards increasingly sustainable and socially responsible business methodologies, they recognize the imperative to engage professionals adept at addressing and navigating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) challenges. Consequently, companies spanning various sectors are consistently posting ESG* roles, with each quarter since 2022 seeing more than 25,000 job postings from around 8,000 recruiters, reveals the Job Analytics Database of GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

Sherla Sriprada, Business Fundamentals Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “This sustained focus on ESG-related recruitment reflects a broader shift towards sustainable and responsible business practices. Enterprises spanning diverse industries are actively pursuing heightened environmental sustainability, directing their efforts toward diminishing carbon footprints via strategic process enhancements and targeted investments in cutting-edge technologies and advancements.”

Aerospace and defense industry is looking at initiatives such as aviation sustainable transition through Fueling Sustainable Aviation Transition with the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (FAST-SAF), Continuous Lower Energy Emissions and Noise (CLEEN) program, Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative (CAAFI), and Eliminate Aviation Gasoline Lead Emissions (EAGLE). Examples include the development of hydrogen-power commercial aircraft. The new emerging technologies such as zero carbon aviation are increasingly becoming part of the working portfolio and the new fuels test function will aid in the learnings required to bring emerging technologies to future aircraft.

Companies in the automotive industry are aiming for zero CO2e products. They are looking at sustainable sourcing, responsible operations, advanced mobility, and an inspiring culture for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The new sustainable propulsion solutions include hydrogen-based propulsion technologies. Companies are also looking at FCTs (Fuel Cell Trucks) for decarbonizing heavy-duty long-haul trucking with faster charging, longer distance ranges and lower charge frequencies.

Green building certifications (such as LEED, BREEAM, WELL, Fitwel, NABERS), and local regulations related to environmental sustainability are in focus for construction industry. Companies are designing sustainability or climate risk management performance targets to identify the opportunities for achieving energy, GHG, and resource reductions.

Companies in the consumer industry are implementing a wide range of initiatives focused on water security, waste management and climate resilience. They are also focused on sustainability commitments to provide strategic leadership across climate, carbon, packaging, waste, safety, nutrition, diversity, and inclusion.

Technology industry is focusing on carbon footprints. Companies are contributing to decarbonization through connective industries, green innovation, and accelerating the transition to greener approaches which sit at the intersection of mobility, energy, and digital playing a pivotal role in leading the net-zero transition.

Companies in power industry are focused on implementing strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to pursue net zero ambition to mitigate the impacts of climate change on the environment and society. They are also analyzing and valuating investment for M&A opportunities around onshore wind, solar PV, battery storage, hydrogen projects and supporting the renewables businesses.

Sriprada concludes: “From aviation to technology each industry is making significant strides. This concerted effort not only aligns with net zero ambitions but also underscores a collective dedication to foster a positive environmental and social impacts. Together, these diverse sectors are shaping a future where responsible business practices drive innovation and progress.”

*This search is based on ESG as theme and job titles with ESG, Environment, Social, Governance and Sustainability.