Sustainability and Environment Manager

Job Introduction

PLEASE NOTE: CVs for this role will be sifted week commencing 21st July 2025

• 40 hours per week
• Monday - Friday - 08:00 - 17:00 - This role is based on site
• up to £45,000 per annum
• Eligible for a bonus
• Sodexo rewards and benefits 

Job Introduction

Lead the Change Toward a Greener Future

At Sodexo, we’re committed to sustainability and responsible service delivery. We’re looking for a dynamic and experienced Sustainability and Environment Manager to champion our environmental and sustainability agenda at Merville Barracks, Colchester, CO2 7UT. If you're passionate about making a real difference and influencing sustainable change, this is your opportunity to drive innovation in a role that truly matters.

What you’ll do:

• Provide expert support to Sodexo and site teams in environmental and sustainability matters.
• Ensure all activities comply with relevant environmental legislation, policies, and best practices.
• Identify and implement innovative, cost-effective, and sustainable solutions to reduce environmental impact.
• Lead the development and management of site-specific sustainability and conservation programs.
• Develop energy, water, waste, and recycling initiatives including scope, ROI analysis, and benefit realization.
• Support our Carbon Net Zero ambition through in-depth utility data collection, interrogation, and reporting — including Power BI dashboards and analytics where appropriate.
• Manage the Annual Sustainability Plan and Tracker, ensuring projects are delivered on time and monitored effectively.
• Chair monthly Sustainability Working Group meetings to promote collaboration and share best practices.
• Promote sustainability through internal communication, training, and awareness campaigns (e.g. Earth Day, Earth Hour).
• Lead sustainable procurement initiatives and perform audits on waste suppliers to ensure legal and ethical compliance.
• Track and report on sustainability KPIs through monthly and quarterly reports.
• Collaborate with clients and T1 suppliers on wider account sustainability initiatives and meetings.
• Research and integrate utility/government rebates and opportunities for environmental and cost benefits.
• Model and promote safe working practices at all times.
• Support site teams in service improvement, operational effectiveness, and delivery model enhancements.
• Coordinate forums and networks to share knowledge and drive continuous improvement.
• Keep current with the latest innovations and best practices in environmental management.
• Represent Sodexo at client meetings to report on sustainability performance.
• Build strong relationships with key stakeholders and ensure consistent, transparent communication.
• Contribute to the business by implementing financially efficient, sustainable practices.
• Stay current with the latest tools, innovations, and best practices in environmental and energy management.
• Represent Sodexo at client and stakeholder meetings, including the MOD, to report on sustainability performance and strategic direction.
• Build strong, transparent relationships with stakeholders at all levels to ensure effective communication and alignment.
• Contribute to the business by implementing financially efficient, sustainable practices.
• Effectively implement and manage environmental and sustainability policies.
• Drive site-specific innovation projects across the site to reduce environmental impact, enhance sustainability infrastructure, and support data-driven decision-making.
• Take responsibility for preparing and ensuring compliance with Corporate Environmental (CE) reports, with high accuracy and accountability to avoid penalties for misreporting.
• Promote our Zero Waste to Landfill ambition across the business—showcasing site-level success stories and inspiring best practices throughout the organisation.
• Integrate social impact and people strategies into sustainability workstreams, aligning with supplier goals to deliver well-rounded environmental, social, and economic outcomes that support broader corporate responsibility.
• Act as a self-starter and trusted advisor, offering fresh ideas and solutions that support both the client and Sodexo’s wider sustainability objectives.

What you bring:

• Graduate calibre with relevant qualifications or equivalent experience.
• Solid experience in corporate and operational environmental management.
• Working knowledge of EMS systems and climate change/carbon management.
• Strong understanding of facilities management and waste/contractor oversight.
• Skilled communicator with the ability to influence across all levels.
• Analytical and strategic thinker with excellent organisational skills.
• Knowledge of sustainable innovations and CSR requirements.
• Passion for sustainability and driving long-term positive impact.
• Experience using Power BI or other analytics platforms for data interrogation and reporting.

Desirable:

• IEMA Certificate or equivalent in environmental/waste management.
• Familiarity with environmental concerns in the food and IFM industry.
• Membership in an environmental organisation (e.g., IEMA).

What we offer:

Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of something greater. You’ll belong in a company and team that values you for you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way. In addition, we offer:

• Mental health & wellbeing support
• Employee Assistance Programme for personal, legal, and financial advice
• 24/7 virtual GP & lifestyle rewards
• Discounts for you & family
• Financial tools & retirement plan
• Cycle to Work & Paid volunteering day