Sustainability Recruitment: Key Differences Between Hiring in the U.S. and the U.K.

Driving Change Through Sustainability Recruitment 

At Farrell Associates we understand that sustainability is now a central pillar of business strategy. As companies worldwide strive to meet environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals, the demand for skilled sustainability professionals has never been higher. 

But when it comes to sustainability recruitment, hiring practices can vary dramatically depending on geography. In this blog, we examine the growing need for sustainable talent and highlight the key differences between hiring in the United States and the United Kingdom. 

What Is Sustainability Recruitment? 

Sustainability recruitment refers to hiring individuals whose roles contribute to an organization’s ESG initiatives—whether directly (e.g., carbon analysts, environmental consultants) or indirectly (e.g., procurement professionals focused on ethical supply chains). 

But it’s also about how you hire. Sustainable recruitment practices include inclusive hiring, digital-first interviews, remote onboarding, and working with agencies that share your sustainability values. 

U.S. vs. U.K.: How Sustainability Hiring Differs 

1. Regulatory Drivers 

• U.K.: The U.K. leads in regulatory compliance, with frameworks like SECR and TCFD requiring companies to disclose climate-related risks. As a result, roles like Sustainability Reporting Manager and ESG Analyst are in high demand. 

• U.S.: While ESG disclosure is growing, especially in sectors like finance and energy, there’s less federal consistency. However, states like California are pushing the envelope on climate and labor laws, fueling demand for localized sustainability talent. 

2. Cultural and Corporate Expectations 

• U.K. employers often approach sustainability as a cultural value—driven by both regulation and consumer expectations. 

• U.S. companies tend to integrate sustainability with innovation and branding, especially in tech and clean energy sectors. Job titles may be more entrepreneurial, with a strong emphasis on impact and innovation. 

3. Candidate Behaviour 

• In the U.K., candidates increasingly seek employers with clear net-zero goals and ethical supply chains. 

• In the U.S., sustainability-minded candidates prioritize companies investing in green innovation, DEI initiatives, and transparent ESG reporting. 

4. Recruitment Strategies 

• U.K. hiring teams often rely on specialized ESG recruitment agencies and tap into partnerships with academic institutions and NGOs. 

• U.S. hiring managers leverage internal CSR teams and digital platforms like LinkedIn or ESG-specific job boards for outreach. 

Why This Matters for Global Recruitment 

As a specialist in sustainability recruitment, we know that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work across borders. Understanding how hiring expectations and regulations differ between the U.S. and U.K. can help multinational companies create more effective, sustainable, and locally aligned recruitment strategies. 

Whether you’re hiring your first ESG professional or building an entire sustainability team, knowing your market is critical. 

Partner With Experts in Sustainability Recruitment 

At Farrell Associates, we connect forward-thinking companies with top sustainability talent across the U.S., the U.K., and globally. Our dedicated ESG and sustainability consultants understand both local compliance landscapes and emerging hiring trends. 

Looking to build a sustainable workforce? 
Let’s talk about how our recruitment strategies can support your ESG goals—wherever you’re hiring. 

Contact us today to learn more about sustainable hiring solutions tailored to your market.