About Company
Next PLC is a leading British multinational retailer headquartered in Leicestershire. With a rich heritage spanning decades, Next has established itself as a household name, known for its stylish clothing, homeware, and comprehensive online presence. Beyond our commitment to fashion and quality, Next is deeply dedicated to operating responsibly and sustainably. We believe in making a positive impact on our communities, our environment, and our supply chain. Our Corporate Responsibility (CR) initiatives are integral to our business strategy, focusing on ethical sourcing, reducing our environmental footprint, promoting diversity and inclusion, and supporting local communities. We are continuously evolving our practices to meet global sustainability standards and stakeholder expectations, striving for transparency and accountability in all our operations.
Job Description
Are you a passionate and experienced Corporate Responsibility professional looking for a fully remote opportunity to drive significant impact? Next PLC is seeking a dedicated Remote Corporate Responsibility Partner to join our dynamic team. This pivotal role will be instrumental in evolving and implementing our global Corporate Responsibility strategy, ensuring alignment with our business objectives and values. You will collaborate closely with various departments, from supply chain and manufacturing to marketing and HR, to embed sustainable practices and ethical considerations across all aspects of our operations. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of ESG principles, excellent communication skills, and a proven track record in developing and managing CR initiatives. This role requires a proactive individual who can work autonomously, engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, and translate complex CR goals into actionable plans. As a Remote Corporate Responsibility Partner, you will have the flexibility to manage your work from anywhere within the UK, contributing to a company that is committed to making a real difference. Join us in shaping a more sustainable and responsible future for Next PLC and our broader community.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and monitor Corporate Responsibility strategies and initiatives in alignment with Next PLC's business goals and industry best practices.
- Conduct comprehensive ESG risk assessments and opportunities analysis across the business, recommending actions for improvement.
- Collaborate with internal departments (e.g., Supply Chain, HR, Operations, Legal) to integrate CR principles into daily operations and decision-making processes.
- Manage stakeholder engagement, including liaising with NGOs, industry bodies, suppliers, and internal teams on CR matters.
- Oversee the collection, analysis, and reporting of CR data, preparing regular reports for internal leadership and external disclosures (e.g., Modern Slavery Statement, Carbon Footprint reporting).
- Stay abreast of evolving CR/ESG regulations, trends, and best practices, providing expert advice and guidance to the organisation.
- Develop and deliver internal training and awareness programs on CR topics for employees at all levels.
- Represent Next PLC at relevant industry forums, conferences, and working groups.
- Contribute to the continuous improvement of Next PLC's sustainability performance and reputation.
Required Skills
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in Corporate Responsibility, ESG, or Sustainability roles.
- Proven experience in developing and implementing CR strategies and programs.
- Strong understanding of key ESG frameworks and reporting standards (e.g., GRI, SASB, TCFD).
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex information clearly and concisely.
- Demonstrated ability to influence and engage diverse stakeholders at all levels.
- Exceptional project management and organisational skills, capable of managing multiple initiatives simultaneously.
- Proficiency in data analysis and experience with CR/ESG reporting tools.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote team environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Sustainability, Environmental Science, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Relevant professional certifications (e.g., CR professional, ESG investing).
- Experience within the retail or consumer goods sector.
- Familiarity with UK and international corporate responsibility legislation and guidelines.
Perks & Benefits
- Fully remote work model, offering exceptional flexibility.
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Generous staff discount on Next products.
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with options to purchase more.
- Company pension scheme.
- Life assurance and private medical insurance.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning in a rapidly evolving field.
- A supportive and collaborative team culture dedicated to making a positive impact.
How to Apply
Ready to make a difference from anywhere? We encourage all qualified candidates to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please ensure your CV and cover letter highlight your experience in Corporate Responsibility and your passion for sustainability. We look forward to reviewing your application and exploring how your expertise can contribute to Next PLC’s responsible future.