CIPFA is looking for a dynamic and proactive policy expert to lead and develop our emerging work on sustainability. 

The climate crisis is now sitting at the top of global political and economic agendas and governments, the public sector and public finances will have a major role to play in meeting net zero ambitions and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. 

As a standard setter and global leader in public financial management, CIPFA seeks to make a difference in the world. Our aim is to lead the debate on how the disciplines and practices of public financial management, reporting and assurance can be applied to sustainability challenges.  

We have already begun this work and earlier this year published an https://insights.cipfa.org/evolving-climate-accountability/ , identifying seven areas for further consideration. We want to extend and embed our thinking and guidance in this area and are looking for the right person to marshal and curate CIPFA’s response to climate-related and broader sustainability issues, green finance, procurement, investment and asset management. In particular, you will lead on the development of international public sector sustainability reporting, creating and maintaining tools, frameworks and guidance for public sector entities around the world. 

Significant experience and success in developing sustainability strategies or frameworks is essential as well as strong theoretical and practical knowledge of global environment standards, frameworks, and the SDGs. 

You will combine problem-solving abilities with meticulous attention to detail and have a proven ability to work effectively with internal and external stakeholders across technical and non-technical functions. Experience across the public, private and non-profit sectors would be an advantage. Your attitude is equally as important as your experience, and you must have a diplomatic and flexible approach with excellent people skills. 

You will act as CIPFA’s lead spokesperson on sustainability and should be a confident public speaker, comfortable presenting, giving interviews and participating in panel discussions and be able to adapt your style to a range of audiences. 

In return we offer: 

• 36 hour working week  
• 25 days annual leave 
• Up to 10% employer's pension contribution 
• Death in service life cover 
• Season ticket loans 
• Employee Assistance Helpline 
• Exclusive employee discount and rewards at many major brands including health & well-being, retail, restaurants and mobile technology providers 

Location: 

CIPFA is a forward-looking organisation and has developed a modern and progressive approach to flexible working. The location for the role will be dual location at both home and our London office. 

To apply please attach a copy of your CV and covering letter to tell us how you think you meet the requirements laid out in the job description. Draw particular attention to experience, skills, achievements, and knowledge gained in past employment or other activities which are relevant to the role. 

Who we are…. 

The Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) is a UK-based international accountancy membership and standard-setting body. We are the only such body globally dedicated to public financial management. 

CIPFA believes that improving public services is the key to changing lives for the better and that good public financial management is central to achieving this ambition.  

Our educational and advisory services support our members, students and other public finance professionals throughout their careers – helping them add value to their teams and the organisations for which they work.  

Through our work, we help ensure public money is raised and spent with the highest degree of openness. 

We are committed to making a real difference to the world we live in. 

Please note we may close the vacancy early once a sufficient amount of applications are received. Therefore, please make sure you complete and submit your application at an early stage.