In the modern workplace, ESG competencies are no longer only required for direct ESG jobs. They are also becoming increasingly important in other areas. Whether in management, the legal department, or operational teams, ESG knowledge can also make a difference in salary. This article highlights why ESG competencies are relevant for all professionals and the advantages they offer in terms of career opportunities.
| February 24, 2025
🕓 Reading time 10 minutes
Table of contents
1. Why ESG competencies are becoming important for all professional groups
2. The importance of legal ESG knowledge
3. Interfaces and collaboration within the company
4. The role of management in implementing ESG initiatives
5. Higher salary opportunities through ESG competencies
6. Conclusion — ESG skills in the job: Why they are also becoming indispensable for non-ESG jobs
1. Why ESG competencies are becoming important for all professional groups
In today’s working world, IT G-Competencies not only for direct ESG jobs required. You win is also becoming increasingly important in other areas. Examples from various professional fields show how ESG competencies can improve everyday work and career opportunities:
production
In the production department, a manager with ESG competencies can take proactive measures to Reduction of CO2 emissions This could be achieved through the introduction of energy-efficient machinery, the optimization of production processes, or the use of renewable energy sources. Such knowledge makes it possible to measure and reduce CO2 emissions throughout the entire production process, which also saves costs in the long term and strengthens the company's competitiveness.
marketing
A marketing manager who is familiar with ESG criteria can Brand communication transparent and sustainable act, which is increasingly expected by consumers and partners. Brands that clearly communicate their sustainability goals often achieve higher levels of customer loyalty and can differentiate themselves from competitors.

Research and Development (R&D)
An R&D manager who is familiar with ESG principles can Development of new products or technologies ensure that they are more environmentally friendly and minimize CO2 emissions during the production phase or during the customer's use phase. By integrating CO2 reduction targets into the innovation process, the company can not only bring more environmentally friendly products to market but also develop new sustainable solutions that increase long-term corporate value.
Human Resources Department (HR)
In HR departments, the Integration of diversity and inclusion goals increasingly important. An HR manager who understands ESG criteria can ensure that recruitment processes meet ethical and social standards, which not only strengthens the company's image but also opens up a broader talent pool.
2. The importance of legal ESG knowledge
It is becoming increasingly important for professionals and managers to have a basic legal knowledge of ESG requirements. It is particularly crucial for management positions to know these legal requirements in order to informed decisions Without an understanding of ESG requirements, such as environmental regulations or social responsibility, managers can unintentional risks that can be costly for the company. A fundamental understanding of ESG factors makes it possible to incorporate them into strategic decisions, whether in investment decisions, the selection of suppliers, or the development of new products.
For example, a managing director who is familiar with the legal framework governing CO2 emissions can assign responsibilities within the company early on and plan processes more efficiently. This enables cost-effective implementation of ESG initiatives and ensures that the company is well positioned to present itself as a responsible actor to business partners and customers through early reporting.
3. Interfaces and collaboration within the company
ESG competencies promote collaboration between different departments and facilitate communication.
A good example of this is the purchasing department. Purchasing is often responsible for collecting the necessary data on purchased goods for greenhouse gas balances. If purchasing officers are trained in this area and understand why exactly this data is needed—for example, information on CO2 emissions from suppliers or products—they can collaborate more efficiently and effectively with other departments and external partners.
This leads to smoother communication and better data transfer because everyone involved knows what information is needed and why.
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4. The role of management in implementing ESG initiatives
It is becoming increasingly important for the management of a company to integrate ESG aspects into strategic planning and decision-making processes to integrate.
Managers with ESG competencies are able to recognize the value of sustainable business practices and to align companies accordingly. ESG knowledge helps to shape the corporate strategy in a long-term, future-proof manner and to place the company in a leading position in the industry.
It also strengthens the Trust from investors and stakeholders, which has a positive effect on the market position.
5. Higher salary opportunities through ESG competencies
Another advantage that ESG skills offer in the job is the possibility to increase one's own salary.
Companies that are committed to ESG initiatives are increasingly seeking professionals and managers with expertise in these areas. According to various studies, employees trained in ESG-relevant topics have better career prospects and can expect higher salaries.
ESG competencies are now considered valuable additional qualification, which not only promotes individual career development but also makes the company more competitive.
6. Conclusion: ESG skills in the job: Why they are also becoming indispensable for non-ESG jobs
ESG competencies are important not only for specialized ESG positions, but also for many other professional areas such as management, production, or human resources departments. Why is ESG competency important in the workplace? Understanding ESG criteria, especially with regard to CO2 emissions, helps design sustainable business processes and increase competitiveness. Legal ESG knowledge is also crucial for managers to make sound strategic decisions and avoid risks.
ESG competencies not only improve collaboration between departments but also promote innovations for CO2 reduction. They also offer the opportunity to increase one's salary, as companies increasingly seek professionals with ESG knowledge. Overall, ESG is becoming a key qualification for professional development and long-term corporate success.
Sources
Handelsblatt – Up to 180,000 euros salary: These are the skills ESG managers really need
https://www.handelsblatt.com/karriere/bis-zu-180-000-euro-gehalt-diese-skills-brauchen-esg-manager-wirklich/29347196.html Accessed on February 26, 2025
Business Ethics Forum – Sustainability People Report: Almost half of sustainability managers are willing to change jobs
https://www.forum-wirtschaftsethik.de/sustainability-people-report-fast-die-haelfte-der-sustainability-managerinnen-ist-wechselwillig/ Accessed on February 26, 2025
Business Campus – Salary ESG Compliance
https://www.wirtschaftscampus.de/service/gehalt-esg-compliance Accessed on February 26, 2025
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