With the increasing popularity of ESG investing in recent years, the demand for talent in socially responsible investing (SRI) or ESG investing has boomed. Various financial institutions, including asset managers, corporations, rating agencies, securities firms and consulting firms are recruiting ESG professionals. For students or finance practitioners interested in entering this emerging field, obtaining relevant credentials like the ESG Investing Certificate can significantly enhance competitiveness.
Large asset managers seeking ESG analysts
As sustainable investing gains traction among institutional investors, major asset management firms like BlackRock, State Street Global Advisors, Goldman Sachs Asset Management and T. Rowe Price have been expanding their ESG teams. Job responsibilities of ESG analysts typically include ESG data research and analysis, ESG integration and modeling, proxy voting and engagement with investee companies on ESG issues. Applicants with investment experience coupled with ESG knowledge tend to be preferred.
Banks and brokerages building ESG research teams
Banks like Citi, Morgan Stanley and HSBC have instituted ESG research to cater for strong interest from their investing clients. Meanwhile Chinese brokerages banks like CICC and TF Securities have also expanded coverage into ESG. Common roles include ESG equity analyst, ESG credit analyst and ESG quant analyst. Candidates with blended capabilities in financial analysis and sustainability issues are highly sought after.
Corporations recruiting sustainability experts
More and more companies are realizing the importance of managing environmental and social risks to operations, brand reputation and financing access. Consequently, positions like sustainability manager, CSR reporting specialist and ESG data analyst are emerging. Typical employers include energy, transportation, manufacturing and consumer product firms. Subject matter understanding of specific industries is important.
In summary, the surging popularity of sustainable investing concepts like ESG and impact investing has opened doors to related job opportunities across financial institutions. Obtaining relevant training and credentials will give interested candidates a valuable head start.