Sustainability Associate Director

Cundall Johnston & Partners LLP; Belfast; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global consultancy based in Belfast is seeking an Associate Director / Director for their Sustainability Team. This pivotal role focuses on driving growth and strengthening client relationships. The ideal candidate will lead business development efforts and manage a high-performing team, ensuring alignment with the consultancy's Zero Carbon Design vision. A degree in Engineering or Built Environment, along with proven experience in sustainability and building physics, is required. This organization values a diverse workforce and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in sustainability and building physics.
• Extensive client network and demonstrated work winning experience.
• Strong understanding of financial and resource management.

Responsibilities

• Drive growth and strengthen client relationships.
• Champion innovative sustainability services and identify new opportunities.
• Inspire and develop a high-performing team.

Skills

Work Winning & Business Development

Client Management

Team Leadership

Communication Skills

Sustainability Knowledge

Education

Degree or Master’s in Engineering or Built Environment

Job description

We are an award-winning global consultancy, named Building’s Engineering Consultant of the Year in 2024, 2022, and 2021. At the forefront of the industry, we pride ourselves on delivering innovative, sustainable solutions that shape the future of the built environment.

Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. Our people are empowered to lead change and accelerate decarbonization. By 2030, we aim to work exclusively on projects that meet our Zero Carbon Design criteria—a bold commitment that defines our purpose.

Our Sustainability Team

Operating across a global network, our Sustainability & Building Physics team is recognized as an industry thought leader. We combine deep technical expertise with innovative approaches to deliver cutting‑edge solutions for clients worldwide. From pioneering net zero strategies to influencing policy and best practice, we are shaping the conversation on sustainable design. Our team thrives on collaboration, knowledge sharing, and driving meaningful change across diverse sectors and geographies.

The Role

As an Associate Director / Director, you will play a pivotal role in driving growth and strengthening client relationships within our UK Sustainability & Building Physics team globally. This is a leadership position with a clear focus on:

• Work Winning & Business Development: Champion our innovative sustainability services, identify new opportunities, and secure strategic projects that align with our Zero Carbon Design 2030 vision.
• Client Management: Build trusted partnerships, deliver exceptional client experiences, and position Cundall as the consultant of choice.
• Team Leadership & Resource Management: Inspire and develop a high‑performing team, ensuring optimal resource allocation and financial performance.

You will collaborate across disciplines to design, analyse, and deliver sustainability and building physics solutions. Over time, you’ll have the opportunity to shape strategy, influence industry direction, and assume greater responsibility for market leadership.

Key Workstreams You’ll Lead:

• Building physics and parametric modelling
• Building performance and operational energy optimization
• Certification and compliance
• Health and wellbeing consultancy
• Net zero and whole life carbon strategies
• Sustainability strategy and governance services

The Skills

• Degree or Master’s in Engineering or Built Environment (or equivalent).
• Proven experience in sustainability and building physics, with a track record of winning work and managing client relationships.
• Extensive client network and demonstrated work winning experience across a range of services and sectors.
• Strong understanding of financial, people, and resource management.
• Demonstrated leadership in at least one of our six core workstreams.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas and overcome challenges proactively.

We know that to be the best at what we do we need a diverse workforce underpinned by an inclusive culture. Creating environments where everyone can find joy doing their best work is also great for everyone. That’s why we positively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and identities, and encourage, support, and celebrate the diverse voices of our people.