Arriva is one of Europe's leading passenger transport providers, connecting people and communities across 11 countries throughout the UK and Europe. With a clear ambition to support the transition to more sustainable mobility, we're seeking a Head of Climate Strategy to lead the development and delivery of our climate agenda and help shape the future of transport across the regions we serve.
This is a high-profile leadership role with the opportunity to influence business strategy, investment decisions and operational priorities across an international organisation. Working closely with senior stakeholders, you'll drive Arriva's approach to decarbonisation, climate resilience and sustainable growth, ensuring climate considerations are embedded throughout the business.
The Role
As our Head of Climate Strategy, you'll act as Arriva's subject matter expert on climate strategy, decarbonisation and climate risk. You'll lead the evolution of our climate agenda, supporting the delivery of our long-term ambitions through three key areas:
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Enabling modal shift towards sustainable public transport.
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Decarbonising our operations.
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Building resilience to the impacts of climate change.
You'll work across multiple functions and geographies, partnering with operational, commercial and corporate teams to translate climate goals into practical actions that create value for the business, our customers and the communities we serve.
This role operates on a hybrid basis, with a minimum of three days per week in either our Sunderland (Doxford) or London (Lacon House) office and flexibility to work remotely for the remainder of the week.
What You'll Be Doing
Climate Strategy & Sustainable Mobility
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Lead the development of Arriva's Group-wide climate strategy and long-term decarbonisation roadmap.
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Shape Arriva's position on sustainable mobility and modal shift, supporting greater adoption of public transport.
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Work with commercial and external affairs teams to influence policy, funding and regulatory developments.
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Represent Arriva with policymakers, industry bodies and transport authorities on climate and sustainability matters.
Decarbonisation Leadership
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Provide strategic oversight of emissions reduction initiatives across fleet, energy, property and operational activities.
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Partner with key stakeholders to ensure zero-emission transition programmes align with climate objectives.
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Identify emerging technologies, regulatory developments and opportunities that accelerate progress towards net-zero ambitions.
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Advise senior leaders on climate-related investments and business cases.
Climate Risk & Resilience
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Lead Arriva's approach to climate risk identification, assessment and management.
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Develop frameworks and governance processes that support effective climate risk management across the Group.
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Lead climate scenario analysis and resilience planning to support long-term strategic decision-making.
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Provide expert guidance on emerging climate risks and adaptation strategies.
Climate Reporting & Governance
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Own Arriva's climate reporting strategy and governance framework.
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Oversee carbon reporting, emissions accounting and climate-related disclosures.
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Lead engagement with relevant frameworks and standards, including TCFD, ISSB, CDP and SBTi.
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Work closely with auditors, investors and other external stakeholders on climate performance and reporting requirements.
What We're Looking For
We're looking for an experienced climate and sustainability leader who can combine technical expertise with commercial insight and strategic thinking.
You'll bring:
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Deep knowledge of climate change, decarbonisation, climate risk and resilience.
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Strong understanding of greenhouse gas accounting and emissions reporting, including Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions.
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Experience developing and delivering climate strategies and emissions reduction programmes within a complex organisation.
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Knowledge of climate reporting frameworks and evolving sustainability regulations.
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Proven ability to lead large-scale, cross-functional programmes and influence senior stakeholders.
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Excellent communication skills, including experience presenting to executive and board-level audiences.
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Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with the ability to turn complex challenges into practical solutions.
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Experience engaging with investors, regulators, auditors and industry bodies.
Experience within transport, infrastructure, energy or other asset-intensive sectors would be advantageous but is not essential.
Why Join Arriva?
This is an opportunity to shape and influence the climate agenda of a major European transport operator. You'll have the platform to drive meaningful change, work alongside senior leaders across the business and play a leading role in supporting the transition to a more sustainable future.
At Arriva, we're committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. We welcome applications from individuals with different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.
The closing date for applications is Sunday 26 July 2026. Arriva Group reserves the right to close this vacancy early.
