Old Mutual Alternative Investments (OMAI), a subsidiary of the Old Mutual Group, is extending an invitation to a seasoned and visionary sustainability professional to join one of Africa’s most prominent and dynamic investment management firms. With a footprint in Cape Town, Lagos, Nairobi, and Abidjan, and a legacy that spans more than two decades, OMAI offers a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the continent’s development through sustainable and impact-oriented investment strategies.
Old Mutual has been a beacon of excellence for over 175 years, and OMAI carries forward this tradition in the private alternative investment space. With over ZAR 147.6 billion (USD 7.8 billion) in assets under management, OMAI’s portfolios cover Infrastructure, Private Equity, Impact Investing, Hybrid Capital, and Diversified Credit. Through its investments, OMAI drives not only competitive returns but also lasting positive environmental and social outcomes.
As we continue to expand our reach and deepen our commitment to sustainable investment, we are seeking a highly qualified Sustainability Manager to take on a pivotal role in guiding our ESG and impact integration efforts across our funds and projects on the African continent.
Position: Sustainability Manager
Locations: Cape Town, Lagos, Nairobi, Abidjan
Job Requisition ID: JR-68172
Posting Date: Posted Today
Application Deadline: 08 July 2025, 23:59
About the Role
The Sustainability Manager will be an integral part of the OMAI ecosystem, directly supporting the investment teams operating across multiple geographies and sectors. The role demands a deep understanding of ESG and impact frameworks, an ability to assess and manage sustainability risks and opportunities, and a commitment to championing positive change in some of Africa’s most important infrastructure and business development projects.
You will be responsible for ensuring that all investments conform to both international sustainability standards and Old Mutual’s internal ESG commitments. This includes engaging in project due diligence, asset management, stakeholder engagement, regulatory compliance, and data-driven reporting. The ideal candidate will thrive in cross-cultural environments and bring a wealth of experience in complex, capital-intensive projects such as renewable energy, transport infrastructure, and digital networks.
Key Responsibilities
1. ESG Due Diligence and Strategic Advisory
- Collaborate with investment teams to review potential acquisitions and determine compliance with OMAI’s ESG and impact requirements.
- Conduct rigorous assessments aligned with frameworks including the UN Principles for Responsible Investment (UNPRI), Equator Principles, IFC Performance Standards, IFC EHS and Sector Guidelines, and ILO Conventions.
- Offer strategic input into ESG and impact integration for each investment cycle stage, from origination to exit.
2. Environmental and Social Management Systems
- Evaluate and, where necessary, enhance the environmental and social management systems (ESMS) of fund managers.
- Ensure ongoing monitoring and optimization of sustainability measures across OMAI’s portfolio companies and infrastructure assets.
3. Cross-Sectoral Expertise
- Provide ESG support across diverse sectors such as toll roads, ports, airports, renewable energy (wind, hydro, and solar), digital infrastructure, and telecom towers.
- Bring specialist knowledge in biodiversity, climate change adaptation/mitigation, and socio-economic impact.
4. Asset Management and Project Compliance
- Support asset managers in ensuring implementation and monitoring of ESG obligations post-investment.
- Travel to project sites, meet with operational teams, and oversee the application of ESG standards in day-to-day operations.
5. Reporting and Data Analytics
- Prepare and submit timely sustainability reports for internal use and external stakeholders including investors and regulators.
- Manage sustainability data repositories, ensuring quality, consistency, and accuracy for both performance monitoring and strategic decision-making.
6. Capacity Building and Representation
- Train and upskill investment professionals on key sustainability concepts, regulatory frameworks, and evolving best practices.
- Represent OMAI in governance forums, industry platforms, and public dialogues on sustainability topics.
7. Thought Leadership
- Contribute to the evolution of sustainability frameworks within the organization through research, innovation, and strategic foresight.
- Produce white papers, case studies, and position papers to articulate OMAI’s approach to ESG and impact investing.
Core Competencies and Attributes
To succeed in this role, the Sustainability Manager must bring not only technical knowledge but also interpersonal effectiveness, leadership capabilities, and a high level of self-motivation. Key attributes include:
- Proven ability to work in multi-cultural and cross-regional settings
- Strong intellectual, conceptual, and analytical abilities
- Capability to manage third-party consultants, including scoping, budgeting, and quality control
- Clear and persuasive written and verbal communication skills
- Resilience, adaptability, and a passion for continuous improvement
- High attention to detail and a deep sense of accountability
- Team-oriented mindset and ability to collaborate across departments
Skills and Technical Expertise
The ideal candidate will be proficient in:
- Action Planning and Data Analysis
- ESG Due Diligence and Environmental/Social Impact Assessment
- Risk and Opportunity Identification in Infrastructure Projects
- Budget Management and Project Performance Monitoring
- Business Case Development and Stakeholder Engagement
- Data Compilation, Modeling, and Insight Generation
- Understanding of sustainability issues in Private Equity and Alternative Investments
- Exposure to Renewable Energy Projects and ESG Compliance Standards
Educational Background and Experience
- A bachelor’s degree in environmental sciences, social sciences, or a related field
- Over 10 years of relevant professional experience in ESG/sustainability, with a strong focus on infrastructure and capital-intensive sectors
- Fluency in French is essential due to the regional spread of OMAI’s operations
- Professional certification or registration in a relevant field is required
- Demonstrated understanding of major sustainability frameworks including the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Equal Opportunity Commitment
Old Mutual is proudly committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The appointment to this role will be made from designated groups in line with the Employment Equity Plan of Old Mutual South Africa and the specific business unit in question.
Join the OMAI Team – Where Sustainable Investing Builds Africa’s Future
At Old Mutual Alternative Investments, you will not just be joining an investment firm. You will become part of a purpose-driven organization that is redefining the future of finance in Africa. You will work on continent-shaping infrastructure projects, engage with high-impact businesses, and contribute to transformative outcomes for communities and environments across Africa.
This role offers a unique platform for experienced sustainability professionals who are passionate about creating long-term, measurable value while navigating the complex but rewarding landscape of African investment.
If you are a forward-thinking, self-motivated sustainability expert eager to take the next step in your career, we welcome your application.
To apply, please send your application to the official Old Mutual careers platform before the deadline on 08 July 2025, 23:59.
