At the SKAO we are coordinating a global effort to deliver one of the largest science facilities on the planet. The SKAO telescopes will be next-generation instruments that will help to answer key questions in astrophysics, drive technological innovation and support human capital development.
More than a dozen partner countries and over a thousand scientists and engineers around the world are already on board, making the SKA project an international collaboration like no other, and one of the most ambitious science and engineering endeavours of the 21st century.
Headquartered in the UK, with telescope sites in Australia and South Africa, the SKAO will be one observatory operating two telescopes, an endeavour spanning three continents. Multinational by design, in early 2021 the SKAO became an intergovernmental organisation, one of only a select handful of science infrastructures to do so worldwide.
Our Global HQ is located near the buzzing city of Manchester at the historic Jodrell Bank Observatory, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Cheshire countryside. It is home to a rapidly expanding international team of more than a hundred, working in a highly collaborative and inclusive way, in coordination with SKAO teams in Australia and South Africa as part of a global astronomy and engineering community.
Being part of Team SKA means contributing to something extraordinary: a uniquely exciting project to advance human knowledge that will last for decades. In return, we offer a diverse multicultural working environment, 30 days annual leave plus public holidays, a generous pension scheme, visa and support with relocation (if applicable), regular social events, a family-friendly environment and much more. Come and join us!
This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the sustainability vision of one of the world’s most ambitious scientific collaborations. The SKAO will explore the universe but is also committed to delivering a positive, measurable impact on society and the environment.
We are seeking an ambitious, strategic, and visionary Sustainability Manager to lead the next phase of our journey. You will drive the development and implementation of our sustainability strategy, embedding sustainable practices across all aspects of our global operations.
The Role
In this pivotal role, you will champion the SKAO’s sustainability agenda internally and externally, ensuring measurable progress in environmental stewardship, social value, and responsible governance. You will represent the SKAO at international fora, engage with governments, industry, research partners, and communities, positioning the SKAO as a model of sustainability in large-scale scientific collaboration.
You will work closely with experts across all directorates and sites of the SKAO, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to embed sustainability principles into every aspect of the organisations work.
This is an unparalleled opportunity to influence the sustainability direction and outcomes of a globally significant scientific project and ensure long-term societal and environmental impact.
This role will be based at the SKAO Global Headquarters at the iconic Jodrell Bank Observatory, Cheshire, UK.
SKAO is committed to providing an inclusive and flexible working environment, meeting the requests of our Colleagues whilst also fulfilling the needs and objectives of the Observatory.
This role requires the post holder to work across different time zones and, in line with SKAO policy, flexible working hours will be supported in agreement with the line manager.
Key Responsibilities, Accountabilities and Duties
- Lead the development, delivery, and continuous improvement of the SKAO’s Sustainability Strategy and associated action plans.
- Act as the organisation’s senior sustainability ambassador, building networks and representing SKAO at international events, conferences, and global fora.
- Build and manage strong relationships with stakeholders, including SKAO colleagues, partner governments, regulatory authorities, local communities, research partners, and suppliers.
- Embed sustainability principles and improvements into organisational processes, including strategic planning, procurement, construction, and scientific operations.
- Collaborate with the Strategy and Impact Specialist to ensure high-quality ESG reporting and transparent communication aligned with global frameworks such as the UN SDGs and GRI.
- Monitor global sustainability trends, policy developments, and emerging risks, advising senior leadership on opportunities and potential challenges.
- Work with multidisciplinary teams to design and implement initiatives that reduce environmental impact, enhance climate resilience, improve social impact and create long-term value.
- Promote a culture of sustainability and continuous improvement across international, cross functional teams.
- Oversee sustainability budgets and resources, ensuring effective collaboration, transparency and accountability.
- Influence and engage internal stakeholders to align day to day operations with the SKAO’s sustainability ambitions.
Mandatory Knowledge, Skills and Experience
- Significant experience in a senior sustainability leadership role within a complex, multi-stakeholder or international organisation.
- Proven track record of designing, implementing, and measuring sustainability strategies that deliver tangible results.
- Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to represent the organisation at senior levels and in external fora.
- Strong knowledge of global sustainability frameworks, environmental science, ESG standards, and regulatory compliance.
- Advanced data analysis, reporting and performance management capabilities, including experience with sustainability metrics and tools.
- Excellent project management and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and teams.
- Demonstrated ability to influence and embed cultural change across diverse teams, disciplines, and geographies.
- Relevant professional qualifications or certifications (e.g., ISSP, IEMA, LEED).
Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Experience
- Previous experience within an intergovernmental organisation.
- Understanding of science, research, or engineering-based environments.
- Degree in Environmental Science, Sustainability, Engineering, or a related discipline.
Equality Diversity and Inclusion Statement
SKA Observatory recognises that our diversity is a strength. We aim to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong, and diverse perspectives and ideas thrive. As such, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion are at the core of SKA Observatory’s agenda.
Our aim is to recruit and retain the most talented individuals, regardless of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, nationality or background.
Women have traditionally been under-represented in the fields of science and engineering; SKA Observatory welcomes and encourages female applicants.
Where applicants with a disability need facilities or adjustments to enable them to participate in the recruitment process, these will be provided.
SKA Observatory welcome all candidates, especially those from member countries.
The “How to Apply” information contained within the SKA Observatory recruitment portal provides more detail regarding our application and selection approach.
