Sustainability talent is transforming private markets.
Sustainability talent is transforming private markets. From carbon accounting to impact investing, here’s what firms are looking for – and where professionals can add the most value.
Private markets are increasingly seeking higher standards from sustainability professionals – here are the changes underway.
In today’s shifting sustainability landscape, private markets are becoming more selective in the talent they seek. As deal volumes remain subdued and firms focus on operational value creation, there is less appetite for generalists and a growing demand for specialists who can deliver clear, measurable outcomes.
Expertise in regulations is highly sought after.
With frameworks such as the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) and the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) continuing to evolve, professionals with strong regulatory knowledge are increasingly valued. These individuals do not just ensure compliance—they help shape investment strategies that appeal to sustainability-conscious LPs.
Private equity and infrastructure investors, in particular, are seeking candidates capable of leading double materiality assessments and advising on fund-level disclosure.
Those who can translate regulation into actionable commercial outcomes—while anticipating where policy is headed—are well-placed to stand out.
Technical Carbon Accounting Skills in High Demand
As scrutiny on net-zero plans intensifies, the demand for professionals with deep expertise in carbon accounting and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is rising. These roles require more than just fluency with reporting tools—firms want individuals who understand the underlying methodologies and can spot errors, optimize calculations, and drive emissions reduction strategies across portfolio companies.
Tools that automate emissions measurement are helpful, but firms are clear: “We need someone who knows when the platform is wrong.”
ESG Integration
In a more cost-conscious hiring environment, firms are prioritizing ESG professionals who add value throughout the deal lifecycle. From investment screening to exit, individuals who can embed sustainability into decision-making and portfolio company performance are the ones securing interviews.
Guidance from initiatives like the UNPRI supports this process, but practical implementation experience is what employers are really after.
Impact Investing Experience Gaining Traction
While broader ESG integration remains a focus, we are seeing a rise in demand for talent with impact investing credentials—particularly those with a track record in thematic areas like climate technology, biodiversity, or social equity.
Professionals with hands-on experience developing impact theses and measurement strategies are helping firms differentiate themselves and meet increasing expectations from LPs around intentionality and transparency.
Sector-Specific Sustainability Knowledge Is a Key Differentiator
As firms deepen their sustainability strategies, sector expertise is becoming more important.
Whether it is understanding decarbonization pathways in heavy industry or the nuances of sustainable agriculture, knowledge of sector-specific risks and opportunities is increasingly prized.
Resources from the SASB now under the IFRS Foundation—can be a helpful guide, but direct experience in a relevant industry remains the strongest asset.
A Market for Specialists, Not Generalists
As the market remains cautious, hiring is increasingly focused on quality over quantity. Employers want talent with clearly defined, high-impact capabilities—especially those who bring a blend of regulatory fluency, technical depth, and commercial insight.
Looking to stand out in private markets sustainability roles?
If you are a sustainability professional considering your next move, building expertise in carbon accounting, SFDR/CSRD compliance, or sector-specific impact strategies could significantly increase your competitiveness in this evolving market.