Under the general supervision and direction of a Deputy City Manager, the Chief Sustainability Officer has considerable independence for directing the citywide sustainability program that enables the City to achieve its sustainability and Climate Action Plan goals by adopting innovative solutions and best practices.
The City of Phoenix is seeking a visionary Chief Sustainability Officer to help Phoenix fulfill its ambitious goals to be the most sustainable desert city on the planet—with Council adopted 2050 targets of zero carbon, zero waste, transit and parks in every neighborhood, clean air, and a vibrant and healthy food system. Phoenix’s Chief Sustainability Officer is a key executive charged with the critical role of helping lead Phoenix to significantly reduce its carbon emissions through initiatives like: achieving 100% net zero electricity, accelerating electric vehicles (EV) usage, installing solar on city property, and working with utilities on renewable energy efforts.
This executive leadership position will focus on advancing Phoenix’s Climate Action Plan goals, fostering cross-sector collaboration, and promoting environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, and equitable access to green resources. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in sustainability leadership, policy development, or environmental program management; experience securing and managing grants; ability to cultivate strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders; and strong project management, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Candidates shall have Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Sustainability, Strategic Management, Environmental Management, Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Urban Planning, Architecture, or another job related field. It is important for candidates to also have seven years of urban sustainability experience, along with two years in a managerial capacity, working professionally in the government, business, consulting, nonprofit and/or academic sector, and experience in renewable energy, energy efficiency, EV infrastructure, or decarbonization efforts. A Master’s Degree is preferred.