Job Description

Ref

321

Vacancy type

Sustainability & ESG

Location

London

Employment type

Full-time

Closing date

08/12/2025

Description

Location: National role, London-based



Reports to: Responsible Business Partner / Steering Group Lead

Overview

Saffery LLP is seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of Responsible Business to lead and embed our Responsible Business (RB) strategy across the firm. This is a pivotal role that supports one of our four Cornerstones and underpins our mission to help build sustainable futures. With a new Managing Partner incoming and growing expectations from clients and colleagues, this role is critical to maintaining momentum and delivering on our social impact and sustainability commitments.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Delivery


Lead the evolution and implementation of the firm-wide Responsible Business strategy, aligned with our mission and strategic business plan. Oversee delivery of key initiatives including Project Net Zero (targeted for April 2026), impact measurement frameworks, and expansion of volunteering and charitable partnerships. Collaborate with the Innovation Group, ED&I, Legal, Risk, Marketing, Ethics, and People teams to embed RB into brand, procurement, L&D, client tenders, and supplier relationships. Develop and deliver strategic project plans with clear milestones and reporting mechanisms.

Internal Engagement & Change Management

Build a strong internal network of champions across all levels to drive engagement and cultural change. Deliver workshops, materiality assessments, and communications campaigns to raise awareness and embed RB practices. Provide expert guidance and training on integrating RB into day-to-day roles and responsibilities.

External Influence & Reputation

Strengthen the firm's external RB profile through thought leadership, impact reporting, and social media presence (e.g., LinkedIn). Represent Saffery in external forums, networks, and client engagements to showcase our RB commitments and best practices. Ensure alignment with key regulatory frameworks (UN SDGs, CSRD, GRI, B-Corp) and monitor emerging trends and competitor activity.

Team Leadership

Lead and mentor the Responsible Business Coordinator, ensuring their development and alignment with strategic goals. Work closely with the Responsible Business Partner and Steering Group to ensure governance and oversight.

Candidate Profile

Chartered professional or equivalent experience with deep expertise in sustainability, ESG, ethics, and governance. Proven track record of delivering strategic change and influencing senior stakeholders, ideally within professional services. Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks and ability to translate them into practical business initiatives. Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder engagement skills Demonstrated ability to manage resources, budgets, and cross-functional projects.

Why Join Us?

Be part of a firm where Responsible Business is a strategic priority.


Shape the next chapter in our 167-year history and contribute to meaningful change. Enjoy a hybrid working model (up to 3 days from home), 35-hour work week, and a comprehensive benefits package including profit-sharing and discretionary bonuses.

About us

Saffery LLP is an adviser to individuals and businesses across a range of sectors, providing market-leading accountancy, audit, business advisory, tax and VAT services. Founded in 1855, we are the UK's 15th largest accountancy firm.



When you work with us at Saffery, you work with people who know your name, not just a job title. We're a place shaped by friendly, intelligent people who are individually excellent and collectively exceptional. We're committed to our clients, but also to our greatest asset - our people.



As a proud member of Nexia, a leading, international network of independent accounting and consulting firms, we've got access to local insight on a global scale.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Equality, diversity and inclusion is a top priority for us. With our ED&I strategy, Everyone Belongs, we are building on our positive work culture and implementing initiatives to improve diversity and strengthen our equitable culture of inclusion, led from the top.



We hope you will apply to us, whatever your background, ethnicity, gender, age, sexuality, disability or neurodivergence, because individual differences equal collective strength. Built on values of excellence, integrity, enthusiasm and collegiality, Saffery is where Potential meets Personal.