EHOD ESG (Environment, Social & Governance) and Sustainability (Internal /External)

The Executive Head of ESG and Sustainability is a pivotal role, responsible for guiding the organization's sustainability journey. This position will collaborate closely with the Board and key stakeholders to embed ESG principles, drive impact, and ensure responsible business practices, ultimately enhancing long-term value creation.

Role Purpose: The Executive Head of ESG and Sustainability will lead the strategic direction and operational execution of the organization’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. This role is essential in advancing the company's sustainability agenda, embedding ESG principles into business strategy, and ensuring alignment with shareholder interests as part of the Shareholder Agreement. The Executive Head will collaborate closely with the Board’s ESG and Impact Committee to meet compliance standards, drive measurable sustainability impact, and safeguard responsible business practices. Working with senior leadership, key stakeholders, and regulatory bodies, this position is crucial for enhancing sustainability efforts and promoting long-term value creation in line with shareholder priorities

Key Accountabilities And Decision Ownership:

Strategic Leadership:

• Define the ESG vision and objectives aligned with the organization’s mission and shareholder priorities. Develop long-term strategies to enhance environmental and social impact in collaboration with the Board's ESG Committee. Stay ahead of industry trends and regulations to maintain leadership in sustainability, integrating ESG into core business functions and embedding responsible practices organization-wide.

Governance And Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with ESG regulations and reporting standards while advancing shareholder interests. Prepare materials for the ESG Committee to review and oversee strategies, policies, and performance. Develop risk management frameworks to protect the company’s reputation and ensure transparency with stakeholders.

Program Oversight:

• Lead the design, execution, and management of key ESG and sustainability programs that address priority areas and demonstrate measurable impact.
• Establish program guidelines, impact metrics, and evaluation frameworks to track progress and drive continuous improvement.
• Make data-driven recommendations to improve program effectiveness and alignment with the organization’s ESG goals.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with shareholders, regulatory bodies, and key stakeholders to align ESG initiatives with broader company objectives.
• Engage with external partners, including community leaders, NGOs, industry peers, and government entities, to foster collaborations and maximize social and environmental impact.
• Act as the primary ESG liaison to shareholders, ensuring transparent communication and updates on ESG performance and progress.

Impact Measurement And Reporting:

• Oversee the development of ESG performance reports for internal stakeholders, shareholders, and regulatory bodies, demonstrating compliance and measurable progress. 
• To evaluate the success of sustainability initiatives and align with shareholder expectations.
• Ensure consistent reporting on ESG metrics (quarterly, annually, and for serious incidents) to the Board and shareholders and develop and implement tools for measuring impact.
• ESG and Impact Committee, and shareholders, fostering accountability and continuous improvement.

Core Competencies

• Environmental Stewardship: Expertise in climate change, biodiversity, and resource management to reduce the ecological footprint and drive sustainable practices.
• Social Responsibility: Commitment to equity, community development, and human rights, ensuring alignment with organizational values.
• Governance Excellence: Knowledge of governance, regulations, and ethical standards to ensure transparency and accountability in ESG reporting.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Skilled in managing diverse relationships and integrating stakeholder needs into sustainability strategies.
• Ethical Judgment: Ensures integrity and fairness in ESG practices, enhancing corporate reputation.
• Public Representation: Represents the organization at forums and events to promote ESG initiatives and strengthen visibility.
• Partnership Development: Builds collaborations with NGOs and government bodies to maximize sustainability program impact.

Core Competencies, Knowledge And Experience:

• In-depth knowledge of ESG frameworks, sustainability strategies, and regulatory compliance, combined with strong leadership, stakeholder engagement, and project management skills. Proven ability to drive organizational sustainability, mitigate risks, and deliver measurable environmental and social impact.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and implement long-term ESG and sustainability strategies that align with the company's goals and values, incorporating frameworks such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) Performance Standards to drive global relevance.
• Project Management: Expertise in planning, executing, and monitoring ESG projects across environmental, social, and governance dimensions, ensuring they meet deadlines, budgets, and objectives while delivering measurable outcomes.
• Leadership and Team Management: Skilled in leading cross-functional teams, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation to effectively support sustainability initiatives and engage employees in ESG objectives.
• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills for effectively engaging stakeholders, including investors, customers, and community members, and for presenting comprehensive ESG reports that reflect progress and challenges.
• Analytical Skills: Proficient in assessing and interpreting data related to sustainability performance, including environmental impact assessments, social program evaluations, and governance compliance metrics to inform decision-making.
• Problem-Solving: Aptitude for addressing challenges in sustainability, such as resource scarcity and social inequality, and finding innovative solutions to enhance the organization’s impact while mitigating risks.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in ESG, sustainability, or a related role, with proven expertise in developing and implementing sustainability and ESG programs and strategies.

Business Competencies:

Creativity And Innovation

• Develop transformative and forward-thinking ESG strategies to address pressing environmental and social challenges, fostering innovation and measurable outcomes.

Business Know How

• Leverage deep expertise in ESG frameworks, sustainability regulations, and industry-specific best practices to align sustainability initiatives with business goals and market trends.

Working With Change

      •       Lead the organization through transitions driven by evolving ESG trends, regulatory changes, and stakeholder expectations, ensuring adaptability and continuity.

Project and Program Management

• Plan, execute, and monitor ESG initiatives to deliver measurable impact aligned with organizational goals.

Functional Competencies:

• Integrate ESG into operations with a focus on compliance, transparent reporting, risk management, and stakeholder engagement for sustainable outcomes. 

Key Performance Indicator:

• Strategic Execution: Implementation of ESG strategies and achievement of objectives.
• Regulatory Compliance: Adherence to ESG regulations and timely reporting.
• Sustainability Impact: Reduction in carbon footprint and improved social metrics.
• Governance: Risk mitigation effectiveness and quality of Board materials.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Satisfaction rates and strategic partnerships.
• Industry Leadership: Adoption of best practices and recognition in ESG rankings.
• Transparency: Timely, accurate sustainability reports and improved ESG ratings.
• Financial Management: Develop and oversee ESG budgets, ensuring effective allocation of resources for strategic priorities.

Financial Responsibility:

• Fundraising Oversight: Lead grant proposals, donor cultivation, and campaigns to secure funding for sustainability initiatives.
• Transparent Practices: Ensure accountability through clear financial management and reporting aligned with ESG goals.
• Financial Acumen: Expertise in budgeting and resource management to support ESG and sustainability objectives.

  Direct Reports:

• ESG & sustainability Manager

• Sustainability Specialist

• Human Right Manager

• Strong expertise in ESG frameworks, sustainability reporting standards (e.g., GRI, TCFD, IFC and BII), regulatory compliance, and environmental and social risk management, with a proven track record in leading impactful sustainability initiatives.
• Master’s degree in environmental science, Sustainability, Environmental Management and or a related field; master’s degree preferred.

  Desired

• Advanced qualifications or certifications in sustainability, environmental sciences, or related fields, alongside experience in stakeholder engagement and operational integration of ESG principles.

  About Us

  At Safaricom Ethiopia, we are a purpose-led technology company dedicated to transforming lives through digital connectivity and inclusive financial services. In under four years, we have grown to serve over 10 million customers, with our network now reaching 55% of Ethiopia’s population – a testament to our bold vision and trusted partnerships.Guided by core values such as customer obsession, innovation, integrity, and get it done together, we are building a workplace that is dynamic, inclusive, and empowering. We believe our greatest strength lies in our people. That’s why, for two consecutive years, we have proudly get earned the Top Employer Award – in recognition for our unwavering commitment to fostering a supportive, innovative, and inclusive environment to people.Join Safaricom Ethiopia and be part of a team that is shaping the digital future of Ethiopia. Here, your work has meaning, your voice matters, and your growth is our priority. Together, we are transforming lives for a digital future