ESG & Social Impact Manager

We are currently seeking a ESG & Social Impact Manager to join our team.

The ESG & Social Impact Manager is accountable for shaping, integrating, and executing First West’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and social impact agenda across the enterprise. This role translates strategic ESG commitments into practical, auditable actions, manages end‑to‑end ESG data and disclosures, and partners cross‑functionally to embed responsible banking practices into products, operations, and decision‑making. The role combines strategic execution with hands-on delivery, supporting integration of ESG considerations across the organization while directly managing data, reporting, and impact initiatives. This role works closely with business units, Risk and Compliance teams, and senior stakeholders to ensure ESG requirements, regulatory expectations, and responsible banking objectives are met in a practical, measurable way.

Here’s what would be included as a part of your typical day

• ESG Execution: Leads or supports the development and ongoing refinement of the bank’s ESG and social impact strategy. Leads or supports the implementation of ESG initiatives across all areas of the business. Acts as a subject matter expert by advising internal stakeholders on ESG‑related topics. Translates high‑level ESG commitments into practical actions, tools, and processes. Coordinates responses to external ESG inquiries ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and regulatory standards.
• Social Impact & Responsible Banking: Designs, manages, and supports social impact initiatives including financial inclusion, community impact, and social enterprise programs. Partners with business units to support inclusive and sustainable products and services. Manages relationships with external partners including NGOs and community organizations. Tracks, measures, and reports social impact outcomes and KPIs. Coordinates and reviews Impact Investment reporting and evaluates outcomes of investments.
• ESG Reporting, Data & Regulation: Develops and maintains ESG data analytics and impact measurement systems to support strategic decision‑making. Leads the identification, assessment, and integration of ESG‑related risks into enterprise risk management processes. Leads or supports ESG data collection, validation, and analysis across the organization. Prepares ESG disclosures and reporting aligned with frameworks and relevant banking regulations. Coordinates responses to ESG questionnaires from regulators, investors, and rating agencies. Supports regulatory engagement and ensures ESG disclosures are accurate, consistent, and auditable.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Governance: Works cross‑functionally with Risk, Compliance, Legal, Finance, HR, and Business teams to embed ESG considerations into operations and decision‑making. Contributes to internal ESG training and awareness initiatives by supporting the development and delivery of learning materials and sessions.
• Research, Risk & Continuous Improvement: Monitors emerging ESG regulations, industry trends, and best practices relevant to banking. Identifies ESG‑related risks and opportunities and supports their integration into risk and decision‑making processes. Continuously improves ESG metrics, tools, and reporting processes. Leads initiatives related to climate risk, sustainable finance, and responsible banking products.

Required Skills, Experience & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in sustainability, finance, economics, business, public policy, or a related field.
• 5–7 years of experience in community investment, nonprofit, or corporate social responsibility roles
• Strong organizational and project coordination skills.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities.
• 4–7 years of experience in ESG, sustainability, social impact, or responsible banking (financial services strongly preferred).
• Solid understanding of ESG frameworks, reporting standards, and regulatory expectations in banking.
• Experience working with ESG data, metrics, and reporting processes.
• Strong stakeholder management, communication, and project management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Comfortable working independently and as part of a team.
• Comfortable balancing strategic thinking with detailed, hands-on execution.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, with a pragmatic mindset.
• Strong ethical judgment and commitment to responsible banking.
• Able to influence without formal authority in a matrixed environment.
• Displays an understanding of risk and risk ownership by being able to demonstrate adherence to policies and procedures.