Manager - Strategy & Sustainability at Astron Energy (Pty) Ltd.

The Head of Strategy & Sustainability is a senior leadership role responsible for driving the strategic direction and sustainability initiatives of Astron Energy. This position combines strategic thinking, business acumen, and environmental awareness to develop and implement sustainable business practices. The Head of Strategy & Sustainability collaborates with executive management, department heads, and cross functional teams to ensure alignment with the organisation goals and objectives.

Financial Perspective

• Identify sustainability-related risks and develop strategies to mitigate them. Monitor industry trends, regulatory changes, and emerging sustainability issues to proactively address potential challenges and capitalize on opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with relevant sustainability reporting frameworks and regulations. Prepare and submit sustainability reports, highlighting progress and achievements against established targets.
• Gather, interpret, and analyse data related to sustainability metrics, environmental impact, and social performance. This involves measuring and monitoring progress, identifying areas for improvement, and making data-driven decisions to drive sustainability strategies.
• Solid understanding of the organisation's business model, operations, and financial implications. The Head of Strategy & Sustainability should be able to align sustainability goals with overall business objectives, evaluate cost-benefit analyses, and identify opportunities for sustainable growth.
• Develop AE Sustainability plan and roadmap.

Customer Perspective

• Formulate and execute a comprehensive sustainability strategy that integrates environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into the organization's operations, products, and services. Set ambitious sustainability goals, establish metrics for measuring performance, and drive initiatives to achieve them.
• Coordinate and plan the Strategy Calendar to achieve Astron Energy’s medium and long-term goals.
• Provide guidance and support in developing tools and strategies to meet ESG goals and targets.
• Conduct assessments to identify the organization's environmental impact, including carbon emissions, waste generation, and resource consumption. Develop strategies to minimize negative environmental effects and enhance sustainability practices.
• Monitor, test and challenge the respective Business Unit strategies and review priorities against the Corporate Strategy.
• Stay abreast of emerging sustainability trends, technologies, and best practices. Identify opportunities for innovation and develop strategies to integrate sustainable practices into product development, supply chain management, and other areas of the organization.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including employees, customers, suppliers, industry associations, and regulatory bodies. Build relationships and engage stakeholders to drive sustainability initiatives, promote awareness, and gather feedback.
• Effectively managing multiple projects and initiatives is crucial for success. The ability to prioritise, set goals, allocate resources, and track progress is essential to ensure sustainability initiatives are implemented effectively and deliver desired outcomes.
• The Head of Strategy & Sustainability should have a commitment to continuous learning, staying up-to-date with industry trends and advancements to drive ongoing improvement and innovation.

Internal Processes

• Develop and refine the organization's overall strategic plan, ensuring alignment with the mission, vision, and values. Identify strategic opportunities and risks, conduct market analysis, and define key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress.
• Identify opportunities and develop innovative strategies to drive sustainability initiatives.
• Think creatively, encourage innovation, and promote a culture of sustainability within the organization

People Management

• Provide strategic guidance and leadership to the sustainability team. Foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment, set performance goals, conduct performance evaluations, and support professional development.
• Inspire and motivate cross-functional teams, drive change, and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization. Effective communication and interpersonal skills are vital to gain support and create a shared vision for sustainability initiatives.
• Implementing sustainability initiatives often requires organisational change. The Head of Strategy & Sustainability should be skilled in change management techniques, including planning, communication, and overcoming resistance to change. Ensure successful adoption and integration of sustainability practices across the organization.

Professional Qualification and Certifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, environmental sciences, sustainability, or a related field.  Advanced degree (MBA, MSc) advantageous.

Work Experience:

• At least 5+ years’ experience with deep strategy & sustainability skills.
• Prior experience in the Oil & Gas industry would be beneficial.

Knowledge and skills:

• Proven experience in strategic planning, sustainability or corporate social responsibility roles.
• Strong understanding of sustainability principles, ESG (environmental, social and governance) frameworks, and global sustainability trends.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate complex information into actionable strategies.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management abilities, including the ability to influence and engage with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated leadership experience, including team management, coaching and development.

• Knowledge of relevant sustainability reporting frameworks
• Familiarity with applicable environmental regulations and certifications is a plus.
• Passion for sustainability and a commitment to driving positive change within organisations.
• Ability to operate on multiple levels, hands-on, strong negotiator, pragmatic, innovative and creative
• Analytical and logical, ability to create value by identifying and driving alternative and efficient approaches appropriate to the situation at hand
• Attention to detail – ability to interrogate and constructively challenge to ensure rigorous outcomes appropriate to requirements

Application deadline:

03 August 2023