Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) is a sector-focused international law firm with extensive expertise and industry insight across its core sectors of energy, infrastructure and transport. Through its network of 19 offices, the firm advises clients on complex, high-value transactions and disputes – matters requiring precise legal execution and a nuanced understanding of global market dynamics.
The firm’s success is driven by its people. It fosters a collaborative, inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can grow, share ideas and make an impact. Guided by its values –We are experts, We are united and We care – the firm delivers exceptional service through strong relationships and teamwork. The firm is committed to clear career paths, championing diversity and investing in its people so they can thrive.
Role overview
The Senior Responsible Business Manager leads the firm’s global environmental sustainability programme, which forms a core pillar of the firm’s broader Responsible Business strategy covering People, Planet, Prosperity and Governance.
This role provides an exciting opportunity to lead the management of the firm’s environmental impact and to engage WFW colleagues across all offices.
It is a strategic and delivery-focused role, combining technical expertise with strong stakeholder engagement to embed environmental sustainability into the firm’s operations and culture.
Key activities/responsibilities
Strategy and delivery- Lead the development and delivery of the firm’s global environmental sustainability programme, ensuring alignment with the wider Responsible Business strategy.
- Work with external specialists and internal stakeholders to develop and deliver the firm’s carbon reduction plan, science‑based targets and external reporting commitments.
Compliance, standards and external recognition- Ensure the firm is compliant with all relevant environmental legislation, working with Office Managers and external specialists where required.
- Lead engagement with external frameworks, standards, certifications and awards (e.g. EcoVadis, ISO14001, BREEAM, NABERS or similar) to drive continuous improvement and external recognition.
Stakeholder engagement and embedding sustainability- Engage colleagues at all levels through local committees and other forums to mobilise offices around local environmental actions and initiatives, with the support of the Senior Responsible Business Advisor.
- Partner with key stakeholders across Business Functions to ensure the carbon reduction plan is embedded within wider business processes.
- Develop and review firmwide materials to promote and embed environmental sustainability, including client‑facing content such as pitch materials.
Governance and policies- Set and regularly review environmental policies, including the firm’s Environmental Policy.
- Work with the Head of Responsible Business to run the Responsible Business Working Party and engage firm leadership to ensure effective governance of environmental sustainability activities.
Partnerships and continuous improvement- Manage relationships with external partners and membership organisations to identify and embed industry best practice.
- Contribute to broader Responsible Business activities and projects (including volunteering and pro bono initiatives) as required.
Skills and experience – desired
- Experience in a similar role, preferably within an international professional services organisation.
- Experience working with emissions data and reporting, with strong analytical skills and an understanding of relevant mandatory and voluntary frameworks and standards.
- Proven ability to manage projects and deliver programmes in a dynamic and evolving environment.
- Experience of improving processes and embedding organisational change.
- Experience working with SBTi, EcoVadis, ISO14001, BREEAM, NABERS, or similar certifications and frameworks.
Personal skills/attributes
- Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence, engage and motivate colleagues at all levels of seniority.
- Highly organised, with excellent project management skills.
- Commercially astute, with the ability to align environmental sustainability with business priorities.
- Pragmatic and adaptable, with a calm and diplomatic approach under pressure.
- Clear and effective communicator, with strong written skills and attention to detail.
- Team-oriented, with the ability to build strong relationships within a small, collaborative and high-performing team.
- Champions the firm’s values and role models inclusive behaviour.
We offer a competitive benefits and wellbeing package for all employees.
Additional information
The Firm promotes a culture of agility and flexibility and is fully supportive of flexible working arrangements where these can be accommodated.
Equal opportunities
Diversity and inclusion are integral to the firm’s strategy and underpin its efforts to attract and retain top talent. All employment decisions are made objectively, based on merit and ability and the firm is committed to inclusive and barrier‑free recruitment. As a Disability Confident employer, WFW welcomes adjustments for candidates with disabilities or long‑term health conditions and participates in the Disability Confident interview scheme. If you would like to apply through this scheme or require adjustments during any stage of the process, please contact London_Recruitment@wfw.com .
