Lead business development efforts, including originating new opportunities, cultivating executive‑level client relationships, and closing engagements.
Build, scale, and manage a growing sustainability advisory team, including hiring, coaching, and developing talent.
Develop new ESG + AI service offerings that integrate data analytics, automation, and emerging technologies into sustainability programs.
Serve as a key leader in shaping RSM's broader ESG strategy and go‑to‑market approach, including how AI will influence future ESG reporting and operations.
Partner across RSM service lines (AI, digital, risk, assurance, tax) to identify cross‑selling opportunities and integrate ESG with broader firm capabilities.
Client Delivery & Technical Expertise
Oversee and direct ESG projects, ensuring high‑quality deliverables that align with client objectives.
Advise clients on integrating AI tools and automation into ESG measurement, reporting, forecasting, and scenario analysis.
Lead the development of ESG strategies, climate‑related risk assessments, materiality assessments, sustainability reports, decarbonization plans, and governance frameworks.
Guide clients on responsible AI use related to sustainability (e.g., data privacy, bias mitigation, model transparency, AI governance).
Use advanced analytics and AI‑enabled insights to help clients quantify sustainability impacts and improve operational decision-making.
Ensure adherence to RSM methodologies while driving continuous improvement of tools, templates, and technology‑enabled solutions.
Stakeholder Engagement
Present findings and recommendations to client leadership teams and boards.
Facilitate workshops and cross-functional discussions on ESG, climate risk, and the implications of AI on sustainability programs.
Build trusted, long‑term relationships with clients and act as their primary advisor throughout their ESG and AI‑transformation journeys.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Sustainability, Environmental Science, Engineering, Business, or related field
10+ years of experience in sustainability, climate advisory, ESG consulting, or a related field
Proven track record in business development, including revenue generation and successful proposal development
Experience growing or leading a consulting practice or team, preferably within professional services
Deep knowledge of ESG frameworks and standards (e.g., SASB, GRI, TCFD, IFRS S1/S2).
Strong technical background in GHG accounting, LCA, SBTi, decarbonization pathways, and CDP reporting
Experience using AI and analytics tools to support ESG data aggregation, reporting, forecasting, or scenario modeling
Familiarity with responsible AI principles related to governance, transparency, and ethical use of technology in ESG programs
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey complex concepts to non‑technical audiences
Requirements
Professional certifications in sustainability or AI-related topics (e.g., GHG Protocol certifications, ISSP-SA, LEED, Responsible AI or data ethics certifications)
Prior experience implementing AI‑enabled platforms used for ESG data management or reporting
Experience advising clients on regulatory developments related to ESG and AI
RSM does not tolerate discrimination and/or harassme
Additional Information
We are the leading provider of professional services to the middle market globally, our purpose is to instill confidence in a world of change, empowering our clients and people to realize their full potential. Our exceptional people are the key to our unrivaled, inclusive culture and talent experience and our ability to be compelling to our clients. You'll find an environment that inspires and empowers you to thrive both personally and professionally. There's no one like you and that's why there's nowhere like RSM.
RSM's Environment, Social, and Governance ("ESG") Advisory Services practice partners with organizations across industries to help them meet their sustainability, climate, and ESG priorities through a practical, data‑driven, and business‑focused approach. We support clients in assessing their ESG maturity, designing and operationalizing ESG strategies, and integrating sustainability into decision-making, risk management, and long-term value creation.
As a Sustainability Advisory Director, you will play a key leadership role in expanding our ESG practice across North America. This includes driving business development, building and managing a high‑performing consulting team, developing thought leadership, and delivering impactful sustainability and AI‑enabled ESG solutions for clients.